It is a familiar film scene: a father hears terrible news, clutches his chest and collapses. Is that how it really happens? According to Dr. A. Sreenivas Kumar, the scene is exaggerated, but it does contain some truth.
Quick takeaways
- Stress is a genuine risk factor for heart disease, though films exaggerate it.
- Night shifts often bring poor sleep, missed meals and smoking.
- Overwork is a growing concern in young Indians.
- Sleep, exercise and asking for help all make a difference.
When to get emergency help
Stop and call an ambulance (108 in India) or go to the nearest emergency department if you have severe chest pain or pressure, pain with sweating, breathlessness or fainting. Do not drive yourself.
Can stress really trigger a heart attack?
It can. Intense stress can cause a plaque inside an artery to rupture, leading to a clot and a heart attack. But Dr. Kumar is clear that this does not happen every time. Stress is one risk factor among several, and stress hormones add to the harm over time.
The cost of always doing more
India is growing fast, and many people push themselves beyond what their bodies can take. Dr. Kumar sees a pattern of ambitious targets, long hours and too little rest. The body gives warnings, but people often carry on regardless.
| Work habit | How it affects the heart |
|---|---|
| Night shifts | Disturb sleep and daily routine |
| Skipped or late meals | Encourage unhealthy eating and weight gain |
| Smoking to cope | Narrows blood vessels |
| Sitting all day | Leads to obesity, diabetes and high blood pressure |
If you work nights
- Protect a regular block of sleep, aiming for at least 7 hours where you can.
- Eat proper meals at consistent times.
- Use your breaks to walk.
- Do not use cigarettes to stay awake or calm down.
- Get regular check-ups, especially with a family history.
Being happy is part of the prescription
Dr. Kumar prefers to tell patients to be happy, because simply saying “do not take stress” rarely helps. Happiness looks different at different ages. Harmful shortcuts such as drugs are not the answer. Helping others, in whatever way you can, is one of the best sources of lasting happiness.
A small daily reset
- Take a 30-minute walk.
- Try yoga or meditation.
- Sit down for one meal without your phone.
- Spend time with someone you care about.
Frequently asked questions
Is every chest pain during stress a heart problem?
No, but do not assume it is harmless. Get it checked, especially if it comes on with effort or wakes you up.
I am under 35. Should I worry?
Stay aware rather than anxious. Keep healthy habits, notice symptoms, and be more careful if heart disease runs in your family.
Feeling overwhelmed?
If stress is affecting your sleep, mood or daily life, talk to your doctor or a mental health professional. Asking for help is a healthy step.
Have a question about your heart?
Dr. A. Sreenivas Kumar is a Senior Consultant Cardiologist and Director of Cardiology and Clinical Research at Apollo Hospitals, Hyderabad. If you have symptoms or risk factors, book a consultation rather than waiting for them to get worse.
This article is for general education and is adapted from Dr. Kumar’s public talks on SumanTV. It does not replace medical advice for your own condition. Please do not start or stop any medicine without speaking to your doctor.