”Consuming too much alcohol is never a good thing. One can actually master the skill of avoiding overindulgence during festive days and managing their health.”
As the holiday season approaches, it is common for people to over-indulge in alcohol and junk food, which can have serious repercussions on their cardiac health. One of the most common ailments due to increased alcohol and unhealthy food consumption is atrial fibrillation or irregular heartbeat. This is also popularly known as Holiday Heart Syndrome. Let us learn more about this from Dr Bipeenchandra Bhamre, consultant cardiothoracic surgeon in Sir. H.N. Reliance Foundation Hospital.
Dr Bhamre has over 8yrs of experience in Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery and has gained many accolades and fellowships from many reputable institutions.
Holiday Heart Syndrome was first coined in 1978 as it occurs due to over-indulgence in food and alcohol during holidays. This can lead to irregular heartbeats, which in medical terms are called arrhythmias. This can prove to be life-threatening in people who are otherwise absolutely normal and have no history of cardiac ailments.
”Too much food, sweets, fats, salts and alcohol can do more damage to our body, particularly the heart.”
What triggers holiday heart syndrome
This condition is purely metabolic and is a result of the over-consumption of alcohol and food in the company of friends and acquaintances during festivals and holidays.
The main triggers of this syndrome are:
”The interesting part of this syndrome is that after this episode, your heart is as normal as it was if you get timely treatment.”
Symptoms of Holiday Heart Syndrome
Keep your HEART in good health, click here
“If you sense any of the mentioned symptoms, you must immediately seek medical help. You must understand what your body is trying to tell you.”
How can you avoid overindulging?
To avoid holiday heart syndrome, you must ensure that you abstain from overindulging in unhealthy food or drinks during festivities. Often, amidst all the crowd and talking, you lose count of how much you have eaten or would binge eat to keep company. You would also ignore the fact that you have surpassed your daily calorie count and have overindulged in eateries in every possible way. This can even prove fatal if not monitored or if left undiagnosed.
Tips to abstain from overindulging in food and drinks
”Holiday Heart Syndrome is a metabolic change and can be avoided by taking a few precautions.”
How to Manage Your Heart and Health during Holidays.
”Quantity is as important as the type of food you eat.”
Must Read: 20 Essential Healthy Heart Tips
Conclusion
Holiday Heart Syndrome is a metabolic condition and is mostly benign. It may happen to people with pre-existing heart issues and also to a person with an otherwise healthy heart. Keep a tab on your diet and drinks during the holiday season for the sake of your health. Do not ignore any unusual symptoms like chest discomfort, breathing difficulty, palpitations etc. and consult the nearest hospital immediately. Spike in B.P. and severe arrhythmias can lead to fatal complications. Be mindful of your food and drinks and enjoy your holidays healthily and happily.