Morning Habits That Increase Heart Attack Risk: Experts Explain What NOT to Do Right After Waking Up

Morning Habits That Increase Heart Attack Risk
A shocking incident from Solapur has once again highlighted the rising number of heart attacks in young adults. A 23-year-old youth, Harshavardhan Mahesh Ingle, who was pursuing college education, died after suffering a massive heart attack early in the morning.

According to family members, Harshavardhan complained of sudden, severe chest pain at dawn. He was rushed to a private hospital immediately, but doctors declared him dead on arrival. The tragic incident has renewed concern over why young people are increasingly falling victim to heart attacks, particularly during early-morning hours.

Why Does Heart Attack Risk Increase in the Morning?

Health experts point out that the body undergoes several physiological changes upon waking up that may trigger cardiac stress—especially in individuals with undiagnosed heart conditions, high stress levels, or unhealthy lifestyles.

Here are the major reasons behind early-morning heart attack risk:

1. Sudden Spike in Blood Pressure

When you wake up, your blood pressure naturally rises to prepare the body for movement. A sudden jump—especially when you get up too quickly—can strain the heart.

2. Higher Morning Stress Hormone Levels

Cortisol levels are highest in the early morning. Excess cortisol can lead to:

Faster heartbeat

Increased BP

Constricted blood vessels

All of which can trigger a cardiac event in vulnerable individuals.

3. Dehydration After Night-long Fast

After 6–8 hours of sleep, the body is mildly dehydrated. Thickened blood increases the risk of clotting, which may lead to heart attacks.

4. Unhealthy Morning Habits

Doctors warn that certain actions immediately after waking up can increase the risk:

Getting up suddenly with a jerk

Checking mobile phone instantly

Going straight to intense activity

Drinking cold or caffeinated beverages on an empty stomach

Excessive morning stress or rushing

What Should You Do After Waking Up?

Experts recommend:

Wake up gently and sit for a minute

Drink a glass of lukewarm water

Do light stretching or breathing exercises

Avoid checking your phone immediately

Do not start the day in haste

Maintain a regular sleep cycle

Cardiologists also advise young people to monitor lifestyle factors such as poor diet, lack of exercise, smoking, late-night work cycles, stress, and excessive screen time.