What is 'holiday heart syndrome' and knowing the signs could save a life

The holiday season can be a time filled with friends, family and, of course, holiday food and beverages. While it is perfectly fine to indulge in one’s favorite food and beverages this holiday season, it is best to avoid overindulging in these items, which can potentially lead to a condition known as holiday heart syndrome — also known as atrial fibrillation, or an irregular heartbeat that is associated with binge drinking. AFib caused by holiday heart syndrome can lead to blood clots, stroke, heart failure and even heart attacks. 

Holiday heart syndrome refers to heart issues that happen because of overindulging in salty foods and alcohol. While eating and drinking too much is something that can occur any time of year, it’s called holiday heart syndrome because the holidays — that time of celebrating with a continual flow of salty snacks and festive cocktails — is when we overdo it the most.

All of that salt and alcohol can cause your heart to beat irregularly, also known as atrial fibrillation (or AFib). In the short term, it can be simply an alarming side effect of a bit too much celebrating, but in the long term, it can lead to serious heart issues, including heart failure and stroke.

How Does Someone Get Holiday Heart Syndrome?

Holiday heart symptoms can be caused by:

50.     Too much alcohol: Drinking more than usual, especially in a short time (like at a party), is a common cause.
50.     Caffeine: Having more coffee than usual could make your heart rate increase and feel like your heartbeat is racing.
50.     Stress: Holiday plans, shopping, and family events can put a strain on the heart.
50.     Dehydration: Not drinking enough water while out and about makes the heart work harder.
50.     Rich foods: Eating heavy or salty meals can also trigger it.

Holiday heart symptoms may be more likely to happen in older people or in folks with existing health problems. But the syndrome can happen to anyone. More than half of the people who get it are under age 65.

How to Avoid Holiday Heart Syndrome

With a little planning, you can avoid holiday heart syndrome and still enjoy the holidays.

Here are a few tips to keep your heart healthy:

1. Limit your drinking. Abstaining from alcohol, especially if you already have an underlying heart issue, is the best way to avoid holiday heart syndrome.
2. Make healthy lifestyle choices. Other habits play a key role too, such as stopping smoking, eating a heart-healthy diet, adding mindfulness into your routine, getting at least 150 minutes of exercise per week, and managing stress in healthy ways.

Tips to Prevent Holiday Heart Syndrome

Stay heart-healthy this season with moderation and mindfulness of the food and drinks you consume.

50.     Eat a healthy meal at home before the party so you are not tempted to overindulge in salty and
50.     sweet treats.
50.     Drink one or two glasses of water between each alcoholic beverage
50.     Set boundaries, scheduling time to relax and remember you don’t have to go to every party
50. Stay physically active or start an exercise routine now instead of waiting for the new year.

This holiday season, as you enjoy the festivities with family and friends, keep in mind that moderation is key to not only enjoying the moment but also ensuring your health remains a priority. And be sure to visit or call your doctor right away for any signs and symptoms that may suggest a heart condition. When in doubt, go to the RSU Hermina Kemayoran or call 1500 488 and get it checked out. Don’t delay getting help, even if it’s a holiday.