NORTH CHARLESTON, S.C. – Doctors are bracing for a surge in heart failure cases linked to stress as the holiday season winds down,with the last week of December historically recording the highest number of heart-disease related deaths,according to the American Heart Association.
Holiday heart Syndrome: More Than Just a Festive Feeling
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A surprising number of cardiac events are triggered by holiday stress and indulgence, perhaps leading to serious health consequences.
- Seeking prompt medical attention is crucial if you experience concerning symptoms.
The condition, dubbed “holiday heart syndrome,” isn’t a formal medical diagnosis, but a recognized pattern of cardiac issues arising from the combined pressures and excesses of the season. It’s a stark reminder that while the holidays are a time for joy, they can also be a strain on the heart.
What Exactly *Is* Holiday Heart Syndrome?
Holiday heart syndrome manifests as heart palpitations, shortness of breath, and chest pressure, typically lasting 24 to 48 hours. Dr. Iva Smolens, a cardiothoracic surgeon at the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC), explained that during an episode, the heart rate can dramatically increase. “You could be sitting still and you feel like you’re running a marathon because all of a sudden your heart rate jumps up to about 160 or 180 beats per minute, which is almost twice what normal is,” Smolens said.
What can happen if holiday heart syndrome isn’t addressed? While frequently enough self-limiting, holiday heart syndrome can evolve into more persistent problems.Smolens cautioned that it can trigger atrial fibrillation, an irregular heartbeat that can lead to strokes and blood clots.
Holiday Triggers: Beyond the Mistletoe
Doctors attribute the spike in cases to a confluence of factors: financial stress, the demands of event planning, and, of course, overindulgence in food and alcohol.While some susceptibility is hereditary, many individuals experience abnormal heart rhythms due to holiday-related stress or disruptions in their medication schedules.
Chelsey Knight, a nurse practitioner at HCA Healthcare trident Hospital, highlighted the role of diet.”People end up in congestive heart failure because they’re eating foods that are higher in sodium, eating bigger portions, eating more sweets and it ends up putting them into heart failure where they retain fluid and than they end up having to go in the hospital,” Knight said.
Beyond the physical, emotional stress plays a significant role. Knight observed, “A lot of times, the holidays are very emotional for people, for loved ones that have passed away or just, you know, major life events that have happened over the years and, you know, maybe you’re alone for the holidays. There’s a lot of cardiac events that happen and I think it’s mainly related to the stress from everything that’s happening all at once.”
protecting Your Heart This Season (and Beyond)
Health experts emphasize the importance of mindful eating during the holidays. They recommend incorporating five to 10 minutes of breathing exercises and prioritizing self-care to bolster heart health during stressful times. Responsible alcohol consumption is also crucial; binge-drinking can lead to dehydration, and rehydrating with electrolytes is advised.
When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Officials at both Trident Hospital and MUSC noted a concerning trend: people frequently enough delay seeking medical help during the holidays, even when experiencing worrisome symptoms. Doctors urge individuals not to hesitate to call 911 or contact healthcare professionals if they experience chest pain, extreme fatigue, or a racing heart.They also recommend scheduling a heart check-up after the holidays as a preventative measure.
New Year’s Day ranks as the third-highest day for cardiac deaths nationwide, following Christmas and the day after Christmas, underscoring the continued risk even after the initial holiday rush.
