Upon waking, the body releases cortisol, a hormone that helps activate the body. However, it also causes the heart to beat faster and the blood vessels to constrict, which raises blood pressure.
2. Activation of the Nervous System
During sleep, the system responsible for rest dominates. But when we wake up, the alert system activates, releasing adrenaline and increasing heart rate.
3. Overnight Dehydration
After seven or eight hours without drinking water, the blood becomes slightly thicker. This forces the heart to work harder to maintain circulation.
For a young and healthy person, these changes are usually well tolerated. But in older adults—whose cardiovascular systems have already been working for decades—this transition can become a delicate moment.
The Morning Mistake Many People Make Without Realizing It
There is a habit that many people consider healthy but that can be risky for some older adults.
It involves taking a very cold shower immediately after waking up.