What causes palpitations and a panic sensation upon falling asleep, and how should it be managed?
Jun 04, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Tian Hongbo
Introduction
Waking up suddenly with palpitations and anxiety may be caused by environmental factors, hypertension, cardiomyopathy, or other reasons, and can be improved through general treatments or medication. Besides the above-mentioned causes, it could also result from conditions such as sleep apnea syndrome, Parkinson's disease, or heart failure. It is recommended to maintain a healthy lifestyle, including regular sleep patterns, a balanced diet, and consistent physical exercise.
Waking up from sleep with palpitations and a feeling of panic may be caused by environmental factors, hypertension, cardiomyopathy, or other reasons. These symptoms can be improved through general treatments, medication, and other methods. Specific analyses are as follows:
1. Environmental Factors
In unfamiliar environments or under strong stimuli such as noise and bright light, individuals may feel uncomfortable and experience palpitations that affect sleep. It is important to maintain a quiet sleeping environment. Drinking a cup of milk before bedtime or soaking the feet in warm water may help promote better sleep.
2. Hypertension
Hypertension may place excessive strain on the cardiovascular system. When the body enters a sleep state, the burden on the heart and blood vessels decreases, leading to a drop in blood pressure. This may cause blood pressure fluctuations and discomfort in the heart area, resulting in awakening suddenly from sleep. Patients may take diuretics or calcium channel blockers such as furosemide tablets or verapamil hydrochloride tablets under medical supervision.
3. Cardiomyopathy
Cardiomyopathy can impair myocardial function and reduce cardiac output. When the body is at rest, the heart's workload may decrease, leading to accumulation of metabolic byproducts in the heart, which can trigger symptoms such as palpitations and chest tightness. Patients may be treated with medications such as spironolactone tablets or digoxin tablets under a doctor’s guidance.
Besides the above causes, this condition may also result from sleep apnea syndrome, Parkinson's disease, heart failure, or other conditions. It is recommended to maintain a healthy lifestyle, including regular作息 (sleep-wake cycles), balanced diet, and consistent physical exercise, while also managing blood pressure and blood glucose levels and maintaining good mental health. If symptoms persist or worsen, prompt medical consultation is advised for appropriate evaluation and treatment.
