‘Holiday Heart Syndrome’ Spikes as Seasonal Celebrations Take Cardiac Toll

The holiday season brings joy, family gatherings and celebrations, but medical experts warn it also delivers a consistent and dangerous spike in heart attacks and cardiac issues – a phenomenon known as “holiday heart syndrome.”

Cardiothoracic surgeon Dr. Jeremy London recently highlighted this seasonal health risk, noting that heart attacks rise predictably during the December holidays. “Every year, like clockwork, we see a spike in heart attacks around Christmas and New Year’s,” the South Carolina-based surgeon explained. “In fact, Christmas Eve is the highest-risk day of the year.”

This seasonal cardiac risk stems from multiple holiday-related behaviors and circumstances. The combination of increased alcohol consumption, excessive eating (particularly of salty foods), reduced physical activity, and heightened stress levels creates perfect conditions for cardiac events.

Dr. Glenn Hirsch, chief of the division of cardiology at National Jewish Health in New York, explains that holiday heart syndrome typically refers specifically to the onset of atrial fibrillation – an abnormal heart rhythm often triggered by binge drinking alcohol.

“It’s often a combination of overdoing the alcohol intake along with high salt intake and large meals that can trigger it,” Hirsch noted. “Adding travel, stress and less sleep, and it lowers the threshold to go into that rhythm.”

The health implications can be serious. Untreated atrial fibrillation significantly increases stroke risk through blood clot formation and can eventually lead to heart failure. Those with existing cardiovascular risk factors face even greater danger during this season.

“The risk of atrial fibrillation increases with age, but also underlying cardiovascular disease risk factors increase the risk, such as high blood pressure, obesity, diabetes, sleep apnea and chronic kidney disease,” Hirsch added.

Environmental factors also play a role in the seasonal surge of cardiac events. Cold weather causes vasoconstriction – the narrowing of blood vessels – which increases the risk of plaque rupture and potential heart attacks, according to Dr. London.

Financial pressures, family tensions, and the hectic pace of holiday preparations further contribute to the physical toll on the heart. The emotional and psychological stresses unique to the season can manifest as physiological strain on the cardiovascular system.

Medical professionals emphasize that holiday heart syndrome is largely preventable with mindful habits. “Moderation is key,” Hirsch advises. He recommends avoiding excessive alcohol consumption, maintaining hydration, limiting salty foods, and managing portion sizes during holiday meals.

Maintaining physical activity is equally important. “Movement is medicine,” Dr. London emphasized, encouraging daily activity even during busy holiday schedules. “Even getting in at least 5,000 to 10,000 steps during the holiday can help lower risk, while also burning some of the additional calories we are often consuming,” Hirsch added.

Sleep quality also deserves attention. The disruption of normal sleep patterns during the holidays – whether from travel, celebration, or stress – can exacerbate cardiac risks. Experts recommend prioritizing consistent, restful sleep even during this busy time.

For those already managing heart conditions, medication adherence becomes especially critical. London suggests setting medication reminders, as holiday disruptions to normal routines can lead to missed doses of important prescriptions.

Perhaps most importantly, medical experts urge people not to delay seeking medical attention for concerning symptoms during the holidays. “Don’t ignore your symptoms,” London warned. “If you don’t feel right, respond.”

Many people postpone addressing health concerns until after the holidays, a potentially dangerous decision that can worsen conditions and lead to more serious outcomes.

By understanding the risk factors associated with holiday heart syndrome and taking proactive steps to manage them, individuals can help ensure their holiday celebrations remain joyful rather than becoming a cardiac crisis.