Waking Up to Danger: How Alarm Clocks May Harm Your Heart

Many studies in recent years have examined how we wake up each morning. While some people wake up naturally, most of us rely on an alarm clock. However, some studies suggest that this method of waking may negatively affect heart health.

Prof. Yehuda Adler, an expert in cardiology, internal medicine, and medical administration, explains that according to a study from the University of Virginia, the sudden awakening caused by an alarm sound leads to a significant spike in blood pressure. When this spike occurs regularly, it may increase the risk of heart attacks or hypertension.

The study found that waking abruptly to the sound of an alarm disrupts the body’s natural wake-up process and causes stress. This stress response releases hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline, leading to elevated blood pressure.

Chronic high blood pressure can harm the body by damaging arteries and increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke. The study’s findings emphasize that alarm clocks can impact heart health. As a solution, researchers recommend using alarms with gradually increasing volume or ones that wake you with light that simulates a sunrise. Of course, natural waking is best, if at all possible.