The phenomenon known as “holiday heart syndrome” highlights the risks associated with festive indulgences, particularly alcohol and salty foods. Dr. David Feingold, a cardiologist and chief of cardiology at Hackensack Meridian JFK in Edison, experienced this firsthand when he suffered an episode of atrial fibrillation (AFib) 15 years ago. Consuming excessive energy drinks and medication for a cold led to an irregular heartbeat, a condition that affects an estimated 10.5 million Americans annually.
AFib, characterized by an irregular and rapid heart rate, disrupts the heart’s coordination, potentially leading to poor blood flow and serious complications such as stroke. The term “holiday heart syndrome” refers to how this condition can be triggered during festive periods due to binge drinking, overeating, stress, and dehydration, as well as other factors affecting individuals like Feingold.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that AFib contributes to more than 232,000 deaths each year in the United States alone. While data from New Jersey does not specifically track AFib cases, research from the National Institutes of Health indicates that Black and brown individuals generally have a lower incidence of AFib compared to white individuals. However, when AFib occurs in these populations, the outcomes are often significantly worse, including nearly double the rates of stroke and heart failure.
Understanding Holiday Heart Syndrome
Dr. Feingold emphasizes that while the term may sound lighthearted, “holiday heart” can be a serious health issue. Many individuals who typically consume little alcohol may indulge during holiday celebrations, which can provoke AFib episodes. “If there’s a clot in there, it goes forward into your head,” he explained, underlining the importance of immediate medical intervention.
Doctors often prescribe blood thinners to mitigate the risk of stroke once AFib is diagnosed. Additionally, he points out that heavy, salty holiday foods can exacerbate these symptoms by pulling fluid into the heart.
Feingold offers practical advice for maintaining heart health during the holiday season. He encourages moderation, suggesting that patients can enjoy festive meals without overindulging. “Think of the holidays as four days of significant meals,” he said, referring to Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas, and New Year’s. His recommendations include smaller portions, healthier food alternatives, and alternating alcoholic beverages with water to slow alcohol absorption.
For those with a sweet tooth, he advises taking just a bite or two of dessert and staying active by taking short walks. He cautions individuals to be attentive to their bodies, noting that any chest fluttering or discomfort should prompt immediate action, including calling a healthcare provider or heading to the emergency room.
The Evolution of Heart Care
Reflecting on his 43 years in cardiology, Dr. Feingold highlights significant advancements in heart care. In the past, treatment options for heart attacks were limited, with doctors offering only basic support to patients. “They either died or lived,” he recalls, emphasizing how much has changed.
Today, treatment for heart conditions has become much more sophisticated. Patients who arrive with heart attacks now receive medications that prevent further damage. Advances such as minimally invasive valve replacements and implantable defibrillators have transformed heart disease into a manageable condition rather than an acute threat. Dr. Feingold notes that early pacemakers were large and cumbersome, whereas modern devices are compact and user-friendly.
Thanks to technological advancements, patients can now monitor their heart rhythms independently. Devices like smartwatches can provide critical health data, though Feingold advises that risk assessments should still be tailored to individual health profiles. For instance, older patients with conditions such as hypertension or diabetes may require more urgent evaluations than younger individuals with no prior cardiac history.
Feingold also acknowledges the long-term impact of alcohol consumption on heart health. While holiday heart episodes are typically temporary, chronic heavy drinking can lead to cardiomyopathy, a condition that weakens the heart muscle and is irreversible.
As the holiday season approaches, Dr. Feingold’s message is clear: listen to your body, enjoy responsibly, and understand the limits of what the heart can endure. Keeping these principles in mind can help mitigate the risks associated with the festive season while still allowing for celebration.
