Do heart attacks spike during the holidays? UNC Health Southeast doctors answer your questions

The holiday season is a time of joy, celebration, and indulgence. But behind the festivities lurk a worrying trend. That means heart attacks are significantly increasing during this time.

Research consistently shows that cardiac events, particularly heart attacks, peak on Christmas Day, the day after Christmas, and New Year's Day.

This phenomenon occurs all over the world and is influenced by a combination of holiday stress, lifestyle changes, and environmental factors.

question: Why are heart attacks more common during the holidays?

answer: Several factors contribute to the spike in heart attacks during the holidays.

– Stress: Pressures like planning vacations, traveling, and managing family relationships can increase stress hormones like cortisol, which can increase your blood pressure and heart rate, putting extra strain on your heart.

– Indulge: Holiday meals can be high in salt, sugar, and fat, which can raise your cholesterol and blood pressure. Overeating, especially heavy meals, can put stress on the heart, especially in people with heart disease.

– Alcohol consumption: Increased alcohol intake during celebrations can lead to dehydration and disrupt heart rhythm, a condition known as “holiday heart syndrome.”

– Cold weather: In many regions, holidays coincide with cooler temperatures. Cold weather causes blood vessels to constrict, blood pressure to rise, and the heart to work harder. Activities such as shoveling snow can further exacerbate the risk.

– Delayed treatment: Many people ignore heart attack symptoms during the holidays, blaming stress or overeating. Additionally, seeking help may be delayed to avoid disruption to the festival, which may lead to worse outcomes.

question: What is Holiday Heart Syndrome?

answer: Holiday heart syndrome is a term used to describe irregular heart rhythms, most commonly atrial fibrillation. It is caused by excessive alcohol consumption, among other stressors, and often occurs in otherwise healthy people. The condition, first identified in 1978, is commonly seen during holidays and festival events when alcohol consumption spikes.

This condition occurs when alcohol interferes with the heart's electrical signals, causing arrhythmia. Dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and increased adrenaline levels from stress and excitement can make the problem even worse. Although holiday heart syndrome is usually temporary and can be cured once the underlying cause is addressed, it can be depressing, with symptoms such as heart palpitations, dizziness, shortness of breath, and chest discomfort. If you have these symptoms, you should go to the emergency room.

Prevention tips for a heart-healthy vacation

– Practice moderation: Limit your alcohol intake and limit your intake of rich foods. Balance your festive treats with healthy options. I tell my patients, “Don't eat the treat, enjoy the treat.”

– Stay active: Include some light physical activity, such as walking, to supplement your heavy diet and reduce stress. A gentle walk around your neighborhood after a meal gives you the opportunity to build friendships with your neighbors.

– Manage stress: Take breaks during your busy day to relax and practice mindfulness. I try to choose three things each day that I'm grateful for.

– Recognize the symptoms: Don’t ignore the signs of a heart attack, such as chest pain, shortness of breath, and nausea. If symptoms occur, seek medical attention immediately.

– Dress warmly: In cold weather, dress to reduce the strain on your heart caused by low temperatures.

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Heart attacks and holiday heart syndrome are preventable through mindfulness and moderation. By putting your health first and taking some simple steps, you can enjoy the season safely. If in doubt, don't hesitate to seek medical advice. Early intervention can save lives and help you enjoy your holidays.