New Delhi

Dr Chandrashekhar Pakhmode, a renowned neurosurgeon from Nagpur, tragically passed away at the age of 53 due to a sudden heart attack in the early hours of December 31. What has shocked many is that he was reportedly fit and had a clean ECG just three days prior. Despite being rushed to the hospital, he could not be revived.

This raises questions about the hidden cardiac risks that routine checkups may miss, even for seemingly healthy individuals.

Stress and burnout: A silent killer

Dr Ranjan Shetty, lead cardiologist at Sparsh Hospital, Bengaluru, explains that doctors and high-pressure professionals are particularly vulnerable to heart attacks due to chronic stress, long working hours, and sleep deprivation. “Even if other markers like cholesterol, blood sugar, and ECG are normal, stress is often the greatest risk trigger. Severe blockages in major arteries like the left main or Left Anterior Descending (LAD) artery can be fatal,” he says.

Why a left artery blockage is dangerous

A 100% blockage in the left main artery cuts off nearly half the oxygen supply to critical heart muscle, leading to severe damage and arrhythmia, which can trigger sudden cardiac arrest. Dr Shetty notes that even with interventions like angioplasty, outcomes can be fatal if the blockage is severe.

Can stress alone trigger a heart attack?

Chronic stress causes inflammation and weakens blood vessel walls, making them more prone to plaque buildup. Stress hormones like adrenaline and cortisol increase heart rate, blood pressure, blood sugar, cholesterol, and triglycerides. Sudden surges, especially in the early morning hours (3–6 am), can dislodge plaques, forming clots that block blood flow. Studies show people with high stress or depression are 2.5 times more likely to suffer a heart attack.

Why routine tests can miss the warning signs

Even a clean ECG may not detect early blockages or unstable angina, where blood flow is severely restricted but heart muscle damage is minimal. Blood tests measuring troponin proteins are more reliable for detecting early heart injury.

Early morning risk and lifestyle tips

Heart attacks often occur in the early hours due to natural surges in stress hormones. Platelet activity increases, dehydration reduces clot breakdown, and arterial constriction is more likely, all combining to heighten risk. Experts recommend:

Give yourself 30 minutes after waking before engaging in stressful activities or checking your phone.

Monitor blood pressure regularly, especially for those under chronic stress.

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Pay attention to subtle symptoms: fatigue, mild pain, nausea, or light-headedness should not be ignored.

Dr Pakhmode’s untimely death is a stark reminder that even fitness-conscious individuals can face hidden cardiac threats. Stress management, early detection, and attention to warning signs are crucial for heart health, particularly for high-pressure professions.