Cardiologists have long since noticed that the number of heart attacks is higher than usual during the year-end holidays, especially in November and December. A lot has changed in 2020, but some things don't change, including the trend ofstress-related heart attacks. It remains in place even during the pandemic. But why is the risk of heart attack actually higher during the holidays? Doctors at Princeton Medical Center recently explained why this is the case and how to prevent a heart attack.
The risk of heart attack increases between Christmas and New Year's Eve
The triggers for heart attacks can be stress, skipping medication or sports activities and exercises, or even excessive consumption of alcohol. Around Christmas and New Year's Eve, people tend to allow themselves more than before. They neglect their diet and do things they usually avoid. General risk factors include smoking, which causes arteriosclerosis and high blood pressure. There is nothing wrong with a glass of wine during a celebratory dinner, but you should not overdo it. Too much alcohol during the holidays can put a strain on the heart and trigger a heart attack. If you suffer from high blood pressure or are overweight, you should definitely pay attention to a balanced diet during the holidays. Lack of exercise is another risk factor. If you don't feel like doing endurance exercise over the holidays, you could go for walks or play outside with the kids. People with chronic illnesses should not interrupt their treatment and skip their medicines.
If you have problems on public holidays, see a doctor
Heart specialists say it's important to be proactive, especially during the pandemic. One of the problems is that many people postpone their treatment. If you look after your own well-being and that of your family now, you could avoid an incident later. Doctors say that few patients visit them on the holidays, simply because they prefer to spend this time at home with family and friends. Unfortunately, it is mainly seriously ill people who visit the doctor during the holidays. It is important to know the signs of a heart attack. If you experience severe chest pain, shortness of breath and nausea, you should not hesitate to call an emergency doctor. The danger is particularly great for diabetics and those with heart disease. That's why doctors advise enjoying the holidays sensibly. Try to eat healthy, sleep normally, get enough exercise and take care of your health at Christmas time.
