Stress

Watch Out for These Signs of Holiday Heart Syndrome

Dec 18, 2024 | 9:18 AM

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.

Does holiday heart syndrome only happen during the holidays?

While holiday heart syndrome can happen at any time of the year if you’re binge drinking or overindulging, it got its name since it most often occurs during the holidays when drinking, eating and stress tend to be the norm. However, this condition can also happen after a night or a weekend of excessive drinking and eating, even if it’s not during the holiday season.

Can anyone get holiday heart syndrome?

Your risk for this condition is higher if you already have heart issues, but anyone can experience it even if they have a healthy heart. It occurs among people who drink regularly as well as those who don’t normally drink much. It is typically preceded by a bout of binge drinking, often in conjunction with overeating or consuming a lot of caffeine.

What are the symptoms of holiday heart syndrome?

Since this condition causes AFib, the symptoms of holiday heart syndrome are the same as the symptoms of atrial fibrillation and may include:

  • Heart palpitations – Your heart may feel like it’s racing, pounding or skipping a beat
  • Trouble breathing – You may be short of breath as you exert yourself and also at rest
  • Chest discomfort – You may experience pain, pressure or tightness in your chest
  • Lightheadedness – You may feel dizzy or like you’re going to faint
  • Fatigue – You may feel more tired than usual

Why is it important to pay attention to symptoms of holiday heart syndrome?

Since signs of this condition may be similar to other serious heart issues, such as a heart attack, it’s important to not ignore symptoms. Get to the hospital as quickly as possible to give yourself the best chance of a good outcome in case you are having a heart attack. Don’t downplay symptoms simply because you don’t want to ruin the fun.

Holiday heart syndrome symptoms are often temporary and subside within 24 hours after excessive drinking and overeating stop. If you did not seek treatment while you had symptoms because they resolved on their own, it is still strongly advised that you follow up with your doctor within a day or two. Over time, arrhythmias and/or heart attacks caused by holiday heart syndrome and excessive drinking can lead to complications such as enlargement of the heart muscle (cardiomyopathy) and may increase your risk for another heart attack or stroke in the future.

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Medical Review: Perry Pitkow, MD