Holiday stress, cold weather and overindulgence can raise heart attack risk

The winter holidays can turn deadly, as research shows more people die from heart attacks during the last week of December than at any other time of the year. While being aware of the signs of a heart attack and taking steps to reduce risk are important all year long, the American Heart Association said that’s especially critical during the next few weeks.

And in rural communities, where EMS responses can be delayed and minutes matter, it’s important to be aware of the signs and symptoms and seek treatment quickly.

"No one wants to think of tragedy during this joyous time of year as we gather with family and friends," said Dr. Grace Ayafor, president of the American Heart Association Board of Directors in Northeast Ohio and interventional cardiologist at Summa Health. "However, these startling facts are very sobering. We don’t know exactly what triggers this increase in heart attacks during the holidays. It’s likely a combination of factors. Winter weather has been noted to increase heart attack risk due to restricted blood flow when arteries may be constricted in cold temperatures. We also know the holidays bring a lot of added stress to many people. There are lots of parties and family gatherings where many tend to overindulge in rich foods and drink.”

According to Ayafor, one of the most critical factors might be that people ignore important warning signs of a heart attack or stroke and often try to wait to seek medical attention only after the holidays.

“While you may not want to spend the holidays in a doctor’s office or hospital, getting checked out and receiving prompt treatment if there is a problem is one of the best gifts you can give yourself and your loved ones for all the celebrations to come,” she said.

Starting CPR immediately and calling 9-1-1 could be the difference between life and death.

“Hands-only CPR is something nearly everyone can learn and do," Ayafor said. "We encourage at least one person 12 years or older in every family to learn CPR because statistics show that most cardiac arrests occur outside the hospital and often in the home.”

The American Heart Association has a short instructional video at www.Heart.org/HandsOnlyCPR.

Ayafor said family gatherings also are a good time to talk about family health history.

“Many of the health factors that impact heart disease and stroke are hereditary,” she said.

The following are heart-healthy tips for the upcoming holidays:

—Know symptoms and take action: Heart attack signs and stroke symptoms vary in men and women, and it’s important to recognize them early and call 9-1-1 for help. The sooner medical treatment begins, the better the chances of survival and of preventing heart damage.

—Celebrate in moderation: Eating healthy during the holidays doesn’t have to mean depriving yourself. There are still ways to eat smart. Look for small, healthy changes and swaps you can make so you continue to feel your best while eating and drinking in moderation and don’t forget to watch your salt intake.

—Plan for peace on Earth and goodwill toward yourself: Make time to take care of yourself during the busy holiday. Reduce stress from family interactions, strained finances, hectic schedules and other stressors prevalent this time of year including traveling.

—Keep moving: The American Heart Association recommends at least 150 minutes of physical activity per week, and this number usually drops during the hustle and bustle of the holidays. Get creative with ways to stay active, even if it’s going for a family walk or another fun activity you can do with your loved ones.

—Stick to your meds: Busy holidays can cause you to skip medications, forgetting them when away from home or not getting refills in a timely manner. The American Heart Association has a medication chart to help stay on top of it and be sure to keep tabs on your blood pressure numbers.

The American Heart Association has more on ways to live heart-healthy during the holidays and all year long at www.heart.org.