[dropcap size=small]D[/dropcap]r. Rafael Gonzalez, Interventional Cardiologist and Director of the Division of Medicine at Baylor Scott & White Medical Center – Round Rock, gives his tips and insight on how to avoid putting yourself at risk this holiday season.
More people have heart attacks in December and January than any other time of year due to excessive alcohol intake, lack of exercise and overindulging at mealtime — all hallmarks of the upcoming season. The holidays can also be accompanied by high levels of stress and depression, which can also lead to an increased risk of cardiac events. Exercise can reduce stress and improve mood.
Eat, Drink and Be Merry. But In Moderation!
- While moderate alcohol intake appears to protect the heart, repeated overindulgence poses a direct and immediate threat to the heart.
- All those high-fat and salty foods not only raise the long-term dangers of obesity and higher blood pressures but they can also increase the immediate likelihood of a heart attack.
- An episode of chest discomfort sometimes can be attributed to indigestion, but that missed trip to the hospital sometimes can be fatal.
- Heart-attack symptoms can include chest discomfort, difficulty breathing, anxiety, severe sweating and nausea.
- Women can often have little or no chest discomfort with a heart attack. Instead, they tend to experience unusual fatigue, difficulty sleeping, and shortness of breath that may precede the heart attack by as long as a month.
- Out-of-town guests especially can be reluctant to go to an unfamiliar hospital or doctor.
Dr. Gonzalez’ heart-healthy tips for the upcoming holidays:
- Everything in moderation
- Don’t let the small things stress you out
- Continue to exercise and eat healthy during the holidays
- If you find yourself feeling down or depressed, talk to someone and get help
- Don’t ignore symptoms that may indicate a heart attack
- Remember: To be fully well, it must be mind, body and soul.
This information is intended for general knowledge and is not a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment.
For more information visit www.sw.org or call 512.509.0100.
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