If you suddenly experience severe chest pain while sleeping or in the middle of the night, taking it lightly can be dangerous. Many people dismiss it as gas, acidity, or fatigue. However, according to doctors, recurring chest pain at night can be a sign of a serious illness, even a heart attack. Let us tell you when severe chest pain at night can be dangerous.
In fact, whether chest pain occurs during the day or at night, if it is frequent or severe, it becomes necessary to get tested. Especially, waking up from pain during sleep is considered a warning sign.
Pramod Kumar, a cardiologist at New Fortis Hospital, explains that there could be many reasons behind this. In some cases, it may be minor, but sometimes it indicates a life-threatening condition.
This occurs when the arteries that supply blood to the heart become narrowed. This prevents the heart muscle from receiving adequate oxygen, leading to chest pressure or pain. This pain can occur even at rest or during sleep and increases the risk of a heart attack.
When lying down, stomach acid can rise, causing a burning sensation or pressure in the chest. If this pain persists for more than two or three days, you should consult a doctor.
Suddenly increasing blood pressure can cause severe chest pain. In conditions like pleurisy, a stinging sensation in the chest when breathing is felt.
According to doctors, if the following symptoms appear along with chest pain, seek emergency help immediately:
Very sharp or stabbing chest pain
Sudden nausea
Cold sweat
Difficulty breathing when lying down
Dizziness or fainting
Irregular heartbeat
These could be symptoms of a heart attack, which can prove fatal if not treated promptly. If you experience any of these symptoms, you should contact a doctor immediately. If you experience severe discomfort, you can also seek help from an emergency helpline.