For most of us, the end of the year means wrapping up work (as well as gifts!) and preparing for the exciting festivities and feasts to celebrate Christmas and welcome in the new year.
Unfortunately, according to doctors and researchers, it is also the time of the year when most heart attacks occur.
Doctors have long suggested that there is a steadily rising number of heart attacks that occur over the holiday season.
The most referenced study was conducted back in 1999, where Dr. Robert Kloner at USC in California, evaluated the deaths of 222,265 people in Los Angeles.
“Cardiac deaths in December and January were found to be 33% higher than in the summer months, with a dramatic increase in deaths starting at Thanksgiving and continuing through the New Year’s holiday,” reported The Los Angeles Times.
Another study, conducted in 2004 by Sociologist David Phillips, found that 5 per cent more deaths occurred in the holiday weeks from December 5th to January 7th. Researchers also found that the three peak days when deaths occurred were December 25th, December 26th and January 1st.
This study included cardiac and non-cardiac related deaths, based on a review of 53 million U.S. death certificates from the 1973-2001.
But what are people doing during their holidays that increase their risk of a heart attack?
According to Phillips, an examination of data ruled out probable suspects such as weather or changes in diet and exercise patterns. Phillips explained that the rise in holiday deaths was even seen amongst nursing home patients, where diets and activities are usually strictly controlled.
There are a number of factors that are associated with producing these peaks in heart attacks. During the holidays we frequently over-indulge in a number of activities, which may include binge drinking, overeating and, ultimately, stress.
Avoid increased strain on your heart this holiday season, and follow some key tips to steer clear of any hazards.
Don’t drink too much
Alcohol in moderation can be good for your heart, however too much is clearly bad. Knocking back too many celebratory drinks can raise your blood pressure and cause many short-term complications such as an irregular heart beat. Holiday heart syndrome is a condition when a person’s heart develops an irregular heart rhythm after drinking large amounts of alcohol, which can indeed increase the risk of a heart attack.
Don’t overeat
Holiday season traditionally calls for an over-indulgence in food. We consume more fatty meals, often at a higher salt consumption. It’s time to slow down! Over-eating can be considered a heart attack trigger, which may speed up your heart to a rapid irregular rhythm, while excessive salt can increase blood pressure and lead to other cardiac and breathing problems.
Don’t avoid treatment
Many people have a tendency to postpone medical care during the holidays, dubbed the “holiday effect”. This also comes with the added complication of holiday travel, with individuals choosing to put off needed care until their return. This is a risky trend that is statistically growing each year, accounting for 42,039 deaths over Phillips’ study period.
Follow these tips and you can still have fun, while remaining healthy. Have a great holiday season and stay in tune with your well-being.
