Mornings can be tense as you rush to get out the door. Studies indicate that stressful morning routines, along with the natural rise in blood pressure and heart rate upon waking, are to blame for the higher number and severity of heart attacks that happen in the morning.
Is it a Heart Attack?
Common symptoms include:
- Chest pain or discomfort, like pressure, squeezing, burning, aching or tightness
- Sweating or lightheadedness
- Pain that travels down your arm(s)
- Fatigue and/or anxiety
- Feeling of fullness
- Shortness of breath
Symptoms for women can vary from those in men, and may be harder to recognize, including jaw and back pain, as well as nausea and other flu-like symptoms.
Knowing the signs of a heart attack is important but prevention is the best tactic.
Lessen the Effect Stress Has on You
Among the many things that have been shown to help with stress and improve heart health are exercise, time in nature and meditation.
What do the board-certified cardiologists at Beaufort Memorial Heart Specialists do to control their stress and recommend to their patients? Exercise is at the top of their list.
"I exercise every morning before work for an hour," says Dr. Stuart Smalheiser. "It helps me prepare for the day and reduce my stress."
"The LifeFit Wellness Center is a great resource," says Dr. David Harshman. "I meet with a personal trainer twice a week as part of my exercise program."
They also recommend getting a good night of uninterrupted sleep and doing what you can to minimize chaos and rushing around in the morning.
Three Ways to Conquer Your Morning Chaos
1. Make a plan, and prep.
For an easier morning, devise a plan the night before and do as much preparation as possible. Pack lunches, lay out clothes, and even bathe the evening before.
2. Follow a routine.
If family members know the routine and their morning responsibilities, rather than having a different flow every day, it will be easier to stay on track.
3. Pause for quiet time or meditation.
Get your head straight before the day begins. Take five or 10 minutes for quiet time, prayer or meditation or even gentle yoga.
Learn more about prevention and early detection of heart and vascular diseases.