Studies show that winter holidays bring an increase in the number of fatal heart attacks. December 25, Christmas Day, has more cardiac deaths in the United States than any other day, according to a study from the American Heart Association (AHA). In Sweden, the number of heart attacks increased by 37% on Christmas Eve and 15% overall during the winter holidays, a British Medical Journal study found.
“While we don’t know exactly why we see such an increase during the winter holidays, several factors could contribute,” said Dr. Abdulmohsin Ahmadjee, a Cardiologist with ThedaCare Cardiovascular Care. “Obviously, stress and overindulgence can have an impact.”
Additionally, the colder weather causes blood vessels to constrict. This reduces blood flow and raises blood pressure. These factors can increase heart attack risk. The heart also works harder to maintain a healthy body temperature during frigid temperatures.
During the holidays, people may engage in unusually strenuous physical activities. These can include shoveling, carrying heavy packages, and walking through snow. The additional strain can pose risks for those who aren’t optimally fit.
One of the most important factors may be the nature of the busy holiday season.
“People may put off care or ignore key warning signs of cardiovascular distress when they have too much to do,” Dr. Ahmadjee said. “Never hesitate to seek help if you’re having concerning symptoms.”
Symptoms
According to the AHA, people should watch for these symptoms and signs:
- Chest pain is the most common symptom of heart attack for both men and women. It can feel like pain, squeezing, fullness, or uncomfortable pressure. If pain lasts longer than a few minutes or goes away and then returns, it could signal a heart attack.
- Women’s symptoms may differ from men’s. Women frequently experience chest pain with a heart attack, but they often have additional symptoms as well. These can include discomfort elsewhere in the upper body. Women also are more likely to have a “silent” heart attack and may experience unusual fatigue or sleeplessness for weeks leading up to a heart attack.
- A heart attack can lead to back or jaw pain. It can also cause pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the neck, or the stomach.
- Shortness of breath without exertion can signal a heart attack. It can happen with or without chest discomfort.
- Anyone, but women particularly, may have nausea/vomiting and other digestive issues with a heart attack.
- People may break into a cold sweat or have excessive sweating without activity.
While heart attacks can be as sudden and dramatic as we see on TV, some begin slowly with mild pain or discomfort.
Prevention
The best way to prevent heart attack is to establish and maintain good habits. Stay on track with your heart health during the holidays by:
- Reducing stress. Eliminate some events or outings, or delegate work to friends and family when possible. Pay attention to managing finances, which can be one of the biggest stressors during the holidays.
- Getting enough sleep. Studies show getting between seven and nine hours of sleep per night helps regulate blood pressure, cholesterol, and weight. All of this impacts heart health.
- Limiting alcohol intake. Guidelines say men should drink no more than two drinks per day. Women and everyone over age 65 should drink no more than one drink per day. Drink in moderation if you choose to do so. Better yet, switch to mocktails or flavored sparkling water.
- Keeping up with medication. Hectic holidays can contribute to forgetting to take your regular medications. Be sure to take meds as prescribed and bring prescriptions when you travel.
- Eating a healthy diet. It’s all about balance. Fill your plate mostly with vegetables, fruits, and healthy salads. Enjoy treats and other indulgences in moderation.
- Integrating exercise into your routine. Aim for at least 150 minutes of aerobic activity per week, which can include brisk walking. Squeeze more walking into your holiday routine by thinking creatively: Park far away when you’re out shopping, or fetch just one item at a time when you’re unpacking decorations. Ask for a smart watch or fitness tracker for a gift. Wearing one has been shown to increase daily activity by 1,200 steps.
Other Healthy Habits
- Go for your regular health checkups to know your numbers and head off any issues before they become serious.
- Manage your health conditions that can contribute to heart disease, including blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diseases such as diabetes.
- If you smoke, quit. Your heart attack risk drops by 50% just a year after you quit.
- Take steps to manage your weight. If you’re significantly overweight or obese, your doctor may have recommendations that can help. These may include medication or a referral to a bariatric surgeon.
“We’re here to work with you and help you manage any conditions that can contribute to cardiovascular disease,” Dr. Ahmadjee said. “Please reach out to your health care team and talk about your risk for heart disease and how to reduce it.”
