""Christmas Eve, we see around 30% to 40% more heart attacks," said Ariani, who adds that he also sees between 15% to 20% more heart attacks around New Years. "I mean, people party, they eat heavier food, they eat saltier food," he said. They also put off doctor's appointments, exercise less, sleep less, drink more and worry more. "People should be very happy, but for other reasons, are stressed out," said Ariani."
"Mario Castro's heart and lungs are healthy now, but during the holidays in 2022, the 57-year-old was in trouble. "I was under a lot of stress, and I felt a deep fatigue," he said. Despite that, he went to work anyway, but he couldn't ignore a strange sensation. "I started feeling a small pressure in my arm as if someone was taking my blood pressure," he recalled. Castro is an ultrasound tech who just happened to be near his cardiologist's office at the time."
Holiday heart syndrome refers to abnormal heart rhythms and increased heart attack incidence during holiday periods. Heart attacks rise about 30–40% on Christmas Eve and 15–20% around New Year's. Common contributing behaviors include heavier, saltier meals, increased alcohol, reduced sleep and exercise, postponed medical care, and heightened stress. Grief, loneliness, and depression during holidays further elevate risk, especially among people older than about 70–75. Case example: a 57-year-old experienced fatigue, arm pressure, and was found to have blocked arteries during holiday season. Preventive measures include moderating alcohol and heavy or salty foods, prioritizing sleep, and sharing concerns with others.
Read at ABC7 Los Angeles
Unable to calculate read time
Collection
[
|
...
]