PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — Hanukkah has begun and Christmas is just days away. Now is a time to “let your heart be light.” But this time of year can also pose some serious risks for the heart.
More people die from heart attacks between Christmas Day and New Year’s Day — compared to any other week of the year — according to the American Heart Association. Christmas Day is the deadliest day of all.
One of the contributing factors is an increase in alcohol consumption during that stretch, says KYW Medical Editor Dr. Brian McDonough.
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“Think about the holidays. It might be alcohol consumed, combined with excess amounts of food — probably foods high in fat,” McDonough said. “Then you add the stress of the holidays.”
This week, we look at how people can remain healthy during this holiday season.
“What I always tell people is to pace yourself. Think about the time of the year, where you are, and make sure you don’t overdo it,” McDonough said.
Plus — a shoulder injury is sidelining Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts. We talk about how to treat a shoulder injury when you’re not an elite athlete.
Listen to the entire conversation here