Cold Sensation and Rapid Heartbeat During Sleep

Q: Cold Sensation and Rapid Heartbeat During Sleep

Hello： The symptoms of feeling cold and having a rapid heartbeat at night are likely due to high stress causing irregular sleep patterns, which results in sympathetic nervous system activation. <br>However, it is also important to consider other issues such as infections or endoc

Regarding feeling cold and experiencing a rapid heartbeat while sleeping?

I have been having trouble sleeping lately and have some questions for the doctor.
Recently, I feel very cold while sleeping.
At first, I thought it might be due to the air conditioning or fan being too strong, but I later realized that it only happens when I am asleep.
In other words, I don't feel cold at all before sleeping, but once I fall asleep, I start to feel extremely cold, and even covering myself with a blanket doesn't help.
I have also tried reducing the airflow, but I still feel cold.
Additionally, as soon as I fall asleep, I become easily startled.
I don't have nightmares, but I wake up frequently, and my heart races and beats strongly when I wake up.
Because of this, I haven't had a good night's sleep for several days.

Moreover, I have a sensation of a foreign body in my throat (not just when I sleep).
I have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), so I am wondering if this sensation is related to that.
I'm also unsure if the symptoms mentioned above are related to stress.
I have been preparing for exams recently, attending tutoring sessions, studying, and have very little time to rest.
I wonder if this could be causing excessive stress, or if, as some online sources suggest, it could be a heart issue?

Qing, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/05/08

Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine

Hello: The symptoms of feeling cold and having a rapid heartbeat at night are likely due to high stress causing irregular sleep patterns, which results in sympathetic nervous system activation.
However, it is also important to consider other issues such as infections or endocrine disorders.
Additionally, the sensation of a foreign body in your throat is likely caused by gastroesophageal reflux.
It is recommended that you visit a family medicine physician for evaluation.

Reply Date: 2024/05/08

More Info

The symptoms you are experiencing during sleep, such as feeling cold, rapid heartbeat, and frequent awakenings, can be quite distressing and may stem from a variety of underlying factors. Let's break down these symptoms and explore potential causes and solutions.

Cold Sensation During Sleep
Feeling excessively cold during sleep, especially when it seems to occur only after you fall asleep, can be attributed to several factors. One possibility is that your body’s thermoregulation is altered during sleep. The body naturally cools down as part of the sleep cycle, which can lead to a sensation of coldness, particularly if the ambient temperature is low or if you are not adequately covered.
Another factor could be related to anxiety or stress, which can affect your body's ability to regulate temperature. Stress activates the sympathetic nervous system, which can lead to fluctuations in body temperature. If you are under significant stress, such as preparing for exams, your body may react in ways that are not typical, including feeling cold or experiencing chills.

Rapid Heartbeat and Sleep Disturbances
The rapid heartbeat you experience upon waking can be linked to several factors. One common cause is the activation of the body's fight-or-flight response, which can occur during periods of stress or anxiety. When you are about to fall asleep, your body may still be in a heightened state of alertness due to stress, leading to an increased heart rate and a sensation of palpitations.
Additionally, sleep disturbances such as frequent awakenings and feelings of being startled can be indicative of sleep disorders, including sleep apnea or insomnia. Sleep apnea, in particular, can cause you to wake up gasping for air, which may lead to a rapid heartbeat and feelings of panic.

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
You mentioned experiencing a sensation of something stuck in your throat, which you suspect may be related to your history of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). GERD can indeed cause a feeling of a lump in the throat (globus sensation) and can lead to sleep disturbances. Acid reflux can worsen when lying down, leading to discomfort that may disrupt your sleep and contribute to anxiety about sleeping.

The Role of Stress
Given that you are currently preparing for exams and have noted a decrease in your rest time, it is highly plausible that stress is a significant contributing factor to your symptoms. Stress can lead to a variety of physical symptoms, including changes in sleep patterns, increased heart rate, and heightened sensitivity to environmental factors such as temperature and noise.

Recommendations
1. Sleep Hygiene: Establish a regular sleep schedule by going to bed and waking up at the same time each day. Create a relaxing bedtime routine to signal to your body that it’s time to wind down.

2. Environment: Ensure your sleeping environment is comfortable. If you feel cold, consider using heavier blankets or adjusting the thermostat to a more comfortable temperature before sleep.

3. Stress Management: Incorporate stress-reducing techniques into your daily routine, such as mindfulness, meditation, or gentle exercise. These practices can help calm your mind and body, potentially improving your sleep quality.

4. Dietary Considerations: Avoid heavy meals, caffeine, and alcohol close to bedtime, as these can exacerbate GERD symptoms and disrupt sleep.

5. Consult a Healthcare Professional: Given the complexity of your symptoms, it would be wise to consult with a healthcare provider. They can evaluate your symptoms in detail, consider the possibility of sleep disorders, and assess your GERD management. If necessary, they may refer you to a specialist, such as a sleep medicine doctor or a gastroenterologist.

In conclusion, while your symptoms may be concerning, they can often be managed with lifestyle changes and professional guidance. Addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of your health is crucial for improving your sleep quality and overall well-being.

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