Spending the end of the year getting together with friends and relatives is a great activity. Usually, plenty of fatty foods, sweet beverages, and alcoholic drinks are presented at this time. However, it is important to practice self-control in order to prevent holiday heart syndrome and excessive alcohol consumption, despite the fact that this tradition only takes place on occasion.

What is Holiday Heart Syndrome?

Due to the end of the year-end holidays, there is typically an increase in heart disease, which leads to the phenomenon of holiday heart syndrome. The pulse becomes irregular and out of sync as a result of excessive alcohol consumption, which is a condition known as atrial fibrillation (AFib). Holiday heart syndrome is associated with AFib.

Inefficient blood flow and a higher risk of blood clots are the results of this heart irregularity. An increased risk of experiencing this is associated with people who have a previous history of heart problems. However, patients who do not have a history of heart disease may also experience atrial fibrillation (AFib) if they consume an excessive amount of alcohol in a short period of time.

Holiday heart syndrome is a potentially life-threatening condition that can lead to long-term problems such as heart failure and stroke. Because of this, you must practice self-control over the amount of alcohol you consume in order to preserve the health of your heart and the rest of your body.

Read more: Recognize Types And Symptoms Of Heart Attack

Symptoms of Holiday Heart Syndrome

The symptoms of holiday heart syndrome are similar to those of atrial fibrillation (AFib), including:

• Lack of energy
• Feeling more tired and less energetic than usual
• Chest discomfort
• Pressure-like chest pain
• Dizziness
• The head feels light and dizzy, like you're going to faint.
• Faster heart beats
• Difficulty breathing

You may experience breathlessness or difficulty breathing even during periods of rest and in the absence of intense physical activity.

Alcohol Effects vs Symptoms of AFib

Alcohol consumption might lead to an increase in heart rate. Nevertheless, during an episode of atrial fibrillation (AFib), the heart rhythm becomes irregular, desynchronized, and presents different sensations compared to rapid heartbeats caused by alcohol intake. It is important to differentiate between rapid heartbeats caused by the direct impact of alcohol or AFib. Therefore, if you have symptoms of AFib, you may immediately call for medical assistance or visit a doctor for an additional examination and evaluation.

Read more: How To Overcome Alcoholic Drunkness (Hangover)

How Much Alcohol Can You Consume?

In order to prevent holiday heart syndrome, it is necessary to restrict the consumption of alcoholic drinks to no more than one per day for women and no more than two per day for males.

It is important to understand that this guide is not suggesting that you should begin consuming alcoholic drinks. If you have not previously consumed alcoholic beverages, it is recommended that you choose alternative drinks that are less harmful to your health. Nevertheless, alcohol consumption can have adverse effects on the body, both in the short and long term. It is recommended to reduce your alcohol intake or abstain from drinking entirely.

If you have signs of holiday heart syndrome, you can either visit a doctor or make use of the consultation features that are available in the Ai Care application by downloading the Ai Care application from the App Store or Play Store.

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