Should You Worry About Chest Pain at Night? Cardiologist Dr. Himanshu Gupta Explains Why It Happens During Sleep

Some people experience discomfort or pain in the chest at night, even though the issue is absent during the day. While digestive problems are often the cause, repeated occurrences should not be ignored. Consulting a doctor is essential for proper evaluation.

Understanding Nighttime Chest Discomfort

If you feel heaviness, stabbing pain, or pressure in your chest while sleeping, it may not always be due to acidity or indigestion. According to Jaipur-based cardiologist Dr. Himanshu Gupta from Manipal Hospital, several serious conditions can also trigger these symptoms at night.

During sleep, the heart’s rhythm, blood pressure, and oxygen levels naturally fluctuate. Individuals with existing heart conditions may experience reduced blood flow, irregular heartbeat, or oxygen drops, which can lead to nighttime chest discomfort.

Common Causes Include:

• Nocturnal Angina: Narrowing of arteries reduces blood supply to the heart, causing pressure or pain.
• Silent Myocardial Ischemia: Blood flow is reduced without noticeable pain, but chest pressure or breathlessness may occur.
• Arrhythmia: Irregular heartbeat prevents proper pumping of blood, resulting in anxiety and chest discomfort.
• Sleep Apnea: Oxygen levels may drop during sleep, increasing the risk of heart complications.

Symptoms Not to Ignore:

• Sweating without fever
• Chest pain radiating to the jaw, wrist, or back
• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• Dizziness
• Palpitations or irregular heartbeat

Immediate Steps

If you experience chest discomfort at night, tests such as ECG, echocardiography, stress testing, or continuous heart rhythm monitoring are recommended. Early diagnosis allows timely interventions, including medications, lifestyle changes, angioplasty, or stenting if necessary.

Expert Advice from Dr. Himanshu Gupta

Nighttime chest pain is a serious concern. Individuals with hypertension, diabetes, or sleep apnea should not ignore such symptoms. While digestive issues can sometimes cause chest discomfort, recurrent nighttime pain must be assessed by a cardiologist to rule out potentially life-threatening conditions.

Disclaimer: This article is for general information only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor for personalized care. NBT is not responsible for the accuracy or outcomes of the information provided.