Holiday Heart Troubles: How Festive Fun Can Turn Dangerous

The holiday season is often packed with fun, but it can also bring hidden dangers to your heart. Doctors have noticed a rise in heart problems during this time. Why? Because people tend to drink and eat more, move less, and feel more stressed. This mix can lead to something called "holiday heart syndrome, " which is a fancy term for heart rhythm problems. One doctor, Dr. Jeremy London, shared that heart attacks spike around Christmas and New Year's. He said that Christmas Eve is the riskiest day. Why? Because people often drink too much, eat big meals, and feel stressed. Cold weather also plays a role. It can make blood vessels narrower, which increases the risk of heart problems.Another expert, Dr. Glenn Hirsch, explained that holiday heart syndrome is often caused by drinking too much alcohol, eating salty foods, and not getting enough sleep. He warned that this can lead to a heart rhythm problem called atrial fibrillation. This condition can cause strokes and other serious issues if not treated. But don't worry, there are ways to stay safe. Doctors suggest avoiding too much alcohol and salty foods. They also recommend staying active, even if it's just walking 5, 000 to 10, 000 steps a day. Getting enough sleep and managing stress are also important. And if you're on medication, make sure to take it as prescribed. Dr. London also advised not to ignore any unusual symptoms. Many people wait until after the holidays to see a doctor, but this can make things worse. So, if you feel something's not right, it's better to check it out sooner rather than later.