Protecting Your Heart During The Holidays: A Guide For A Healthy Season

The holiday season is meant to bring joy, but for many people, it also brings disruptions in routine, added stress and, too often, delayed medical care. As a cardiologist, I see the consequences every year.

Studies from the American Heart Association show a clear spike in heart attacks around December 25 and January 1. The reasons vary, but one constant is that people often ignore or minimize symptoms during the holidays — a decision that can turn dangerous quickly.

Heart attack symptoms can appear differently in men and women, but in all cases, timely action saves lives.

For men, the most common warning signs include chest pressure or discomfort; pain that spreads to the arms, back, neck, jaw or stomach; shortness of breath; and sudden sweating, nausea, unusual fatigue or lightheadedness. These symptoms may come and go, but they should never be dismissed.

Women often experience additional symptoms that are sometimes mistaken for anxiety, indigestion or exhaustion. These may include shortness of breath, nausea or vomiting, upper-back or shoulder pain, stomach upset and overwhelming fatigue or weakness. Because these symptoms can seem vague, many women wait to seek help — but they should call 911 immediately if they occur.

Unlike a heart attack, cardiac arrest is sudden and dramatic. When the heart’s electrical system malfunctions, a person will collapse, lose consciousness and stop breathing. In this situation, call 911 immediately and begin CPR. Do not attempt to drive the individual to the hospital — rapid CPR is the intervention that can keep someone alive until emergency responders arrive.

Several well-known risk factors increase the likelihood of a heart attack: high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, smoking, obesity, inactivity, family history, chronic stress and poor sleep. The encouraging news is that many of these risks are manageable with consistent care and healthy habits.

As you move through the holiday season, a few simple steps can help protect your heart. Try to maintain your normal routines for sleep, activity and meals. Be mindful of salt and alcohol, which can elevate blood pressure and contribute to fluid retention. Continue taking prescribed medications, even when traveling or juggling holiday obligations. Manage stress by pacing yourself, taking breaks and seeking support when needed. And if you have conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes or heart failure, continue monitoring your numbers as recommended.

The holidays should be a time of connection and celebration — not a time to ignore your health. Listening to your body, responding quickly to warning signs, and prioritizing your well-being are the greatest gifts you can give both yourself and those who love you.

Need to connect with a cardiologist? Learn more about University of Maryland Baltimore Washington Heart Associates and schedule an appointment with cardiologists by visiting www.umbwmc.org/heart.

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