The holidays are the most dangerous time for people who don’t lead the healthiest of lifestyles.
There’s an increase in heart attacks.
Research has shown that there are more heart attacks in the last week of December than at any other time.
It’s a named syndrome, says Dr. Arjun Mehta, a cardiologist at Rush University Medical Center.
“Holiday Heart Syndrome specifically pertains to when excessive alcohol consumption, dietary excess and emotional stress lead to heart rhythm abnormalities.”
And those with pre-existing health issues aren’t the only ones impacted.
“This can make things ten times worse, but it doesn’t spare those who are already healthy, as well. For Example, we see a lot of people who come in with first time atrial fibrillation, usually related to binge drinking or over consumption of alcohol during the holidays. Actually, December 25th is one of the deadliest days of the year with cardiac events.”
That’s followed by December 26th and January 1st.
Dr. Mehta says there are warning signs, including shortness of breath, swelling of the body, chest discomfort, and dizziness.
He says ignoring them could kill you.
“It’s easy to think that if you do things excessively now and then live like a saint in January and you’re going to get back to where you were that’s just not true.”
Mehta says early treatment is very important.
Anyone who experiences those symptoms should not put off a visit with a doctor.