Watch Out for These Signs of Holiday Heart Syndrome
Overindulging during the holidays may lead to this serious heart condition.
The holidays are often a time filled with celebrations that may lead to overindulgence, whether it’s eating big meals or having a few too many cocktails. While too much of a good thing can often lead to less-than-desirable results, like hangovers and feeling like you’re dragging, excessively drinking and eating may also contribute to a serious health risk known as holiday heart syndrome.
What is holiday heart syndrome?
Holiday heart syndrome is when a person experiences an irregular heart rhythm known as atrial fibrillation (AFib) that is not due to known risk factors for heart arrhythmias or heart disease but rather occurs as a result of binge drinking or excessive consumption of meals filled with fat, sodium and/or caffeine. It can also be exacerbated by the stress many people feel during the holidays, as well as other factors such as cold temperatures that may put added stress on the heart.