Holiday Heart Syndrome

As the holiday season approaches, many of us are tempted to overindulge in food and drink. But reports indicate that increased alcohol consumption can trigger a heart rhythm disorder known as atrial fibrillation. This condition referred to as “holiday heart syndrome,” (HHS) can occur in certain people with or without a prior history of heart rhythm problems when they simply have had too much to drink. Holiday heart syndrome is further considered to be the result of a combination of factors beyond just drinking alcohol, including caffeine and the over-consumption of fatty meals filled with salt, as well as the stress– all leading up to possibly suffering a heart attack or stroke. So, help your heart stay clear from the holiday cheer.