The winter holiday season is filled with joy and cheer, but for people with heart disease, it also presents some serious risks to their health. According to research from the British Medical Association, there has been a growth in heart attacks and other cardiac events more so than at any other time of the year. The holidays can be busy and stressful, and it can be easy to lose sight of the warning signs. It’s essential to be aware of these risks, and taking simple steps to protect your heart health can help you celebrate the upcoming new year without complications.

Being Mindful of Your Heart During The Holiday Season

The holiday season is often a time of excess, where people eat bigger portions of salter, rich food, drink more alcohol, and let their regimens fall by the wayside. Because of the excessive indulgence of the season, it can also be easy to push off warning signs of a heart attack. 

Higher levels of stress can contribute to heart attacks quickly due to the events of the holidays, and while enjoying the break of the holidays is an excellent way to bring joy to your life, having chronic conditions such as heart failure can pose risks that impact your season in heart-rendering ways. 

Here are some things to be aware of for everyone this holiday season:

• Know Your Symptoms and Take Action: Chest pain, upper body discomfort, shortness of breath, and cold sweats are some of the largest signs of a heart attack. Catch them early and call 911 for help. The sooner medical treatment begins, the better the chances of survival. 
• Celebrate Moderately: Unhealthy dieting habits can easily occur during this season, but you can eat smart by keeping track of your sodium intake, eating indulgent foods more moderately, and limiting your alcohol intake. 
• Be Active, But Avoid Overexertion: The American Heart Association recommends 150 minutes of physical activity during the holidays. Keep exercising, but don’t overexert yourself to help manage stress and keep your heart healthy. 
• Keep Taking Your Medications: Even with travel and busy schedules, taking your medications each time as needed can help promote the drug’s effectiveness and keep your blood pressure healthy. 
• Choose Your Parties Wisely: Spend time with the people you consider family most, avoid pushing yourself too far, and even skip parties if needed to care for your health. 
• Make Time To Rest: Rest by taking a few moments to relax, and even try relaxation techniques such as meditation and prayer to keep your heart calm and stable. 

Experience More Joy With A Healthy Heart

By caring for your heart, you can effectively enjoy the holiday season with those you consider family and move forward into the new year. If you’re unsure about your symptoms and need medical attention, visit your local urgent clinic to receive immediate medical care.