.jpg)
It’s the “most wonderful” time of the year, but maybe not when it comes to our hearts. Unfortunately, more heart-related ER visits and deaths occur during the Christmas and New Year’s holiday season, according to the American Heart Association. A study in the British Medical Journal shows the risk of heart attack actually peaks at 10 p.m. on Christmas Eve, especially for older and sicker people.
Another concern is “holiday heart syndrome,” which typically presents with an abrupt onset of atrial fibrillation (AFib) after drinking more alcohol than usual. This can be frightening, including symptoms of rapid heart rate, shortness of breath, fainting, fatigue and heart palpitations. For many, temporary AFib linked to holiday heart syndrome will resolve itself. But you can reduce your risk by being aware of the triggers and taking emergency steps when needed.
Don’t Binge Drink
One of the top culprits of holiday heart is binge drinking. This typically occurs when men have more than five servings of alcohol in a two-hour span or women have more than four drinks in the same time period. Alcohol causes blood pressure to rise, but also exerts direct effects on the heart rhythm that promote arrhythmias. This puts us at risk for AFib symptoms and can even trigger a heart attack for those with underlying or undiagnosed heart issues.
It’s important to note that the effects can last beyond the time you’re binge drinking. In fact, a Harvard research review found that binge drinking six or more drinks in one night may raise a person’s risk of heart-related events for an entire week after consumption. If you’re going to drink alcohol, moderation is key. For best heart health, I recommend zero to one drinks per day and never exceeding two drinks in a day.
Battling Heart Risk Factors Around the Holidays
The holidays usually bring heightened stress levels amidst all of the shopping, cooking and entertaining guests. These activities can raise blood pressure and set off a “fight or flight” response in the body that’s hard on the heart. That’s why taking time to relax, exercise and de-stress is a top priority during the holidays.
Another issue is holiday weight gain from overeating. It may be tempting to indulge, but eating large amounts of food high in saturated and trans-fat, cholesterol, salt and added sugars can put your heart at risk. I always recommend looking at all of your food options first. Then choose which food you’ll eat or skip and control quantities carefully.
People also often tend to delay medical treatment when the holidays get busy or pharmacies are closed on holidays, but don’t make this mistake. Don’t forget to get your medication refills in a timely manner and always take your medications as prescribed.
Reduce Your Risk and Enjoy This Holiday Season
Always listen to your body and stay aware of any unusual symptoms you may experience, especially after drinking or eating a big meal. Remember, it’s very important to not ignore signs of a heart attack or heart emergency when they happen. These include chest pain; discomfort in other parts of the body like arms, back, neck, jaw or stomach; shortness of breath; nausea; cold sweat and lightheadedness. Many people try to brush health problems off around the holiday, often to spend more time with their families. But the sooner you seek medical attention, the better your outcome is likely to be. If you think you’re having a heart attack or any other emergency, call 911.
Give yourself a gift this season by taking care of your heart. After all, a healthy heart will help you enjoy many merry holidays to come.
Dr. Anthony Magnano is a Ponte Vedra resident and Chief of Cardiology at Ascension St. Vincent’s Riverside. For more information on Dr. Magnano and his specialty treating Atrial fibrillation, visit Healthcare.ascension.org or call 904-388-1820.
