HEALTHY HEART NEWS Volume 17 | December 2019
Beverly Keefer, Director of Cardiovascular Services /Anthony Patrello, Medical Director of MSLC Cardiovascular Institute
Montefiore St. Luke’s Cornwall’s Cardiovascular Institute is committed to you and our community. We pride ourselves on being an engaged partner with the many constituencies that we serve. As part of our commitment to meeting your heart health needs, we have developed this quarterly newsletter filled with information that can improve the quality of, and in some cases, help save your life. If there are topics that you would like to see covered in future editions, please e-mail Beverly Keefer, Director of Cardiovascular Services, Cardiac Cath and Interventional Radiology at bkeefer@montefioreslc.org.
THE TRUTH BEHIND HOLIDAY HEART ATTACKS It is a well-known fact that cardiac problems spike during the holiday season. The holidays are a time when people come together to consume rich foods and an abundance of alcoholic beverages, which could encourage over-indulgence. The holidays also place pressure on us to get everything just right and ready for family and friends. Excessive eating, drinking and stress can lead to obvious strains on the body and may result in what has been nicknamed the “Merry Christmas Coronary.” In recent years, research has shown that heart attacks increase during the winter holiday season, with distinct spikes around Christmas and New Year’s Day, according to one study. Doctors have long known that cold weather can affect the heart. Blood vessels constrict, which raises blood pressure and blood also clots more readily. The seasonal frigid temperatures can increase strain on the heart and too much physical exertion can worsen the burden and trigger a heart attack. People also tend to delay treatment because of fear of disrupting festivities, or due to travel. It is important to know the signs and symptoms of heart disease/heart attacks and to act immediately. If you feel chest pain or other symptoms as outlined below, immediately call 911 for emergency help. Don’t waste time, and don’t postpone treatment because you do not want to spoil the holiday festivities. Continuous Chest Pain – this is the most common symptom. If the chest pain is not relieved after resting for a few minutes it is time to call 911! Pain in the left side of the body – Many people are aware that if there is pain in the left side of the body, especially the arm, to seek help. It is important to also know that the pain sometimes radiates to the throat and jaw. Sudden fatigue – unexplained fatigue can be a sign of heart disease, especially in women. Nausea, indigestion and heartburn – most often these signs are related to something that you have eaten. However, if the symptoms do not go away with normal remedies, then it is time to seek help.
PREVENTING HOLIDAY HEART ATTACKS Pile on the layers – stay warm! Try to avoid exposure to very cold temperatures. Stay clear of stressors – try to avoid emotional stressors at all costs. Carve out some time to relax and enjoy the season, removing yourself from high anxiety situations. Make good choices – avoid excess salt and alcohol as over indulgence can increase heart attacks. Get your flu shot – consider getting a flu vaccination as infection and fever can put extra stress on the heart. Know your limits when it comes to being out in the cold — avoid shoveling wet heavy snow. The excess activity can put a strain on your heart. Each year more than 11,000 people are sent to a hospital after snow shoveling. Remember to listen to your body! If you start to get tired or stressed during the holidays, take the time to slow down. Your health is important. For the New Year, plan ahead and take a few minutes to set your health and wellness goals. Look ahead and set realistic goals to improve your heart health. Even little improvements can have big results!
WISHING YOU A HAPPY AND HEALTHY HOLIDAY SEASON!
Unexplained dizziness, lightheadedness and sweating are also signs you need to be aware of.
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