Holiday heart attacks rise as doctors share hidden triggers, prevention tips
Experts urge moderation, sleep, and staying on medications as heart-attack risk spikes during the festive season.
Health officials warn that holiday heart syndrome contributes to a spike in heart attacks around Christmas and New Year’s. Cardiothoracic surgeon Dr. Jeremy London noted in a recent Instagram post that the uptick is a seasonal pattern, with Christmas Eve identified as the highest-risk day of the year. "Every year, like clockwork, we see a spike in heart attacks around Christmas and New Year's," London said.
Experts say the holiday spike stems from behavior changes: overeating and overdrinking, less physical activity, and emotional or financial stress. London cited factors that raise risk, including "emotional stress, financial stress, the increased pace of the holidays, increased obligations." Cold weather can also constrict blood vessels, increasing the chance of plaque rupture and a heart attack.
Dr. Glenn Hirsch, chief of the division of cardiology at National Jewish Health in Denver, told Fox News Digital that holiday heart syndrome often refers to new or worsened atrial fibrillation after a bout of binge drinking. "It’s often a combination of overdoing the alcohol intake along with high salt intake and large meals that can trigger it," he said. The biggest risk from atrial fibrillation is stroke and other blood-clot complications, he added; untreated AF can contribute to heart failure over time. The risk rises with age and with preexisting conditions such as high blood pressure, obesity, diabetes, sleep apnea and chronic kidney disease.
Prevention centers on moderation and planning. Hirsch said avoiding binge drinking, overeating—particularly salty foods—and dehydration, while managing stress and prioritizing sleep, can lower risk. "Don’t forget to exercise," he urged, noting that moving 5,000 to 10,000 steps a day during the holidays helps offset extra calories and supports heart health. London echoed the message that "movement is medicine" and encouraged daily activity. He also advised staying on prescribed medications, using reminders during holiday breaks, and prioritizing sleep and mindfulness.
Health experts emphasize that holiday heart syndrome is preventable and that delaying medical checks can worsen conditions. If symptoms arise—such as chest pain, shortness of breath, palpitations or faintness—people are urged not to ignore them and to seek evaluation promptly.
