Why does my chest feel tight and uncomfortable when I wake up in the morning?

Jul 15, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

Sometimes in the morning after waking up, I feel a sense of anxiety in my chest, and at times I also experience palpitations. I would like to ask, why do I feel such chest tightness upon waking up in the morning?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Wang Xin
Waking up in the morning with a feeling of chest tightness may result from a combination of various factors. On one hand, it could be related to poor sleep quality, such as frequent dreaming, easy awakening during the night, or short sleep duration, which prevents the body from fully resting. This can lead to increased cardiac workload upon waking, causing discomfort. On the other hand, psychological stress and emotional issues are also common causes. Excessive thinking, anxiety, or depressive feelings before sleep can affect normal heart function, leading to symptoms like chest tightness and palpitations upon waking. Additionally, one's physical health status should also be considered, as cardiovascular diseases, digestive system problems (such as gastroesophageal reflux), or respiratory conditions may trigger a sensation of chest congestion in the morning. Therefore, if these symptoms persist, it is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation to rule out underlying diseases, and to adjust lifestyle habits, ensure adequate sleep, and learn techniques to relax the mind and body in order to maintain heart health.