Holiday Heart Symptoms: How Alcohol, Stress, and Fatigue Affect Your Heart
The stress and excess of the season can place your heart health at risk.
Most people associate the holidays with joy, celebrations, and time spent with friends and family. But for some, that extra glass of wine, another plate of food, or the chaos of holiday shopping may trigger more than just fatigue—it can set off an irregular heartbeat. This sudden change in heart rhythm is known as Holiday Heart Syndrome (Holiday Heart).
What Is Holiday Heart?
“Holiday heart, or party heart syndrome, is typically a result of binge drinking, and is a common cause of emergency room visits in high school and college age students. It can be quite uncomfortable when your heart is racing at high rates, but fortunately the heart rhythm almost always corrects itself, and rarely has any serious long-term issues. But it should not be ignored.” says Robert Sommer, MD, Interventional Cardiologist at Columbia Interventional Cardiovascular Care.
Holiday Heart refers to an episode of atrial fibrillation (AFib)—an irregular and often rapid heartbeat—that typically happens after heavy drinking, overeating, dehydration, or intense stress, especially around holidays or celebrations.
During AFib, the upper chambers of the heart (the atria) quiver, rather than squeeze, and are out of sync with the lower chambers (the ventricles). This disrupts normal blood flow, causing symptoms such as palpitations, chest discomfort, dizziness, or shortness of breath. It may also increase your risk of having a stroke.
Why Does It Happen During the Holidays?
While it often happens during the holiday season, it can occur anytime after excessive alcohol intake, stress, or lack of sleep. It can occur even in people without any existing heart disease. Understanding what it is and how to prevent it can help keep your heart safe all year round.
How Dangerous Is It?
Most episodes of Holiday Heart Syndrome resolve on their own within 24 hours with no injury to the heart, but AFib should never be ignored. When the heart beats rapidly and irregularly:
- Blood may not move properly through the heart.
- This increases the risk of blood clots forming in the heart itself.
- If a clot forms on the left side of the heart, it can travel to the brain and cause a stroke.
- Long-lasting AFib can also lead to the heart muscle tiring and symptoms of heart failure.
Even a single episode should be evaluated by a doctor—especially if symptoms last more than 30 minutes, or if you have risk factors like high blood pressure, diabetes, sleep apnea, or prior heart issues.
I’m Not a Big Drinker. Am I at Risk?
You don’t need to be a heavy drinker or have a history of heart problems to bring on an episode of Holiday Heart. Even people with otherwise healthy hearts can experience Holiday Heart after a night of binge drinking or eating, little sleep, or significant emotional stress.
When Should I Seek Medical Attention?
While most cases of Holiday Heart resolve within 24 hours, you should call 911 right away or have someone else drive you to the emergency room if you have:
- Chest pain or pressure
- Severe shortness of breath
- Symptoms that last more than a few minutes, including:
- Feeling like your heart is racing or “fluttering”
- Irregular or pounding heartbeat
- Dizziness or feeling faint
Remember: Do not drive yourself to the emergency room.
Can I Prevent Holiday Heart Syndrome?
Absolutely. There are steps you can take to enjoy the holidays without putting your heart at risk. Here are some tips:
- Limit alcohol intake. Pace yourself and avoid binge drinking.
- Stay hydrated. Drink water before, during, and after your celebrations.
- Eat moderately. Large meals can place extra stress on the body, especially when accompanied by salty foods.
- Get enough sleep. Sleep deprivation can trigger AFib.
- Manage stress. Take breaks, practice relaxation techniques, and set healthy boundaries during busy times.
- Don’t ignore symptoms. If your heart feels “off,” get yourself checked.
So give yourself some gifts this holiday season: Practice moderation, listen to your body, and take care of yourself. Your heart will thank you.
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