The risk of suffering a heart attack or stroke increases during the holiday season, with a peak in cardiac deaths between Christmas and New Year’s. “We definitely see this in the emergency room during the holidays,” says Dr. Donald Lloyd-Jones, cardiologist who leads the Framingham Heart Study at Boston University School of Medicine.
So, what causes the Christmas coronary effect and how can you reduce your risk?
Lloyd-Jones says that the risk factors that put people in danger are present all year round, but the holidays can serve as a tipping point when multiple factors converge.
“Certainly the weather is a contributor, as well as common winter infections, changes in lifestyle, disruptions in routines, and holiday stress,” says Lloyd-Jones.
Excessive celebrations with rich foods and alcohol can overload the heart. And numerous studies show that excess sodium raises blood pressure, forcing the heart to work harder.
Although stress is constant, an acute stressor that activates the fight-or-flight response — triggered by an argument or difficult situation — can make everything worse, creating a perfect storm.
“When we are under acute stress, blood pressure can spike, putting extra strain on the cardiovascular system,” says Lloyd-Jones.
Some people confuse heart attack symptoms with indigestion or overeating. Here are the classic warning signs:
“Sudden onset, usually of strong pressure in the center of the chest or unexpected shortness of breath,” explains Lloyd-Jones. “These are two main symptoms that no one should ignore.”
Sometimes, the signs are more subtle. “It’s important to remember that not everyone has classic symptoms, especially women,” says Dr. Tina Shah, cardiologist from Seattle at Kaiser Permanente. She cites dizziness or pain in the jaw, neck, or back, which can radiate from the chest.
Research shows that the risk of stroke also increases at this time, and strokes manifest differently from heart attacks. To identify signs, there’s a mnemonic called FAST.
“If you notice facial droop, the F, or weakness in one arm or leg on one side only, or sudden difficulty speaking, call 911 immediately,” says Lloyd-Jones.
With travel and holiday gatherings, healthy habits can be forgotten. Disrupted routines make people forget medications, like those for the heart and blood pressure, says Dr. Luke Laffin, preventive cardiologist at the Cleveland Clinic.
“It’s essential to have enough medications for the entire trip,” says Laffin, and on flights, carry them in carry-on luggage so you don’t run out if checked baggage is lost.
As a doctor, Laffin has seen the increase in emergency room admissions during the holidays. He warns not to delay or avoid care. Many convince themselves that the symptoms will pass, which can be fatal.
“No one will reprimand you for going to the emergency room if the symptoms are concerning,” says Laffin.
Often, when someone suspects a heart attack, it is one. And quick treatment is crucial.
“If the patient arrives with the heart attack in progress, restoring blood flow with a stent as quickly as possible can mean the difference between a normal life and one with heart failure,” says Laffin.
In summary: Better to err on the side of caution.
Source: npr.org by Allison Aubrey