Medically reviewed by Abid Ali Fakhri, MD.
Heart Attacks and the Holidays
A recent study by the American Heart Association showed that heart attacks that occur around December 25, 26, and January 1 are more likely to be fatal than at any other time of year. The primary reason is that they delay seeking care during the holidays. Knowing this can help you stay alert and act quickly if symptoms appear, whether in you or a loved one.
No matter the day or time, emergency teams are ready to help. You won’t be interrupting anyone’s holiday — you’ll be giving your loved ones the greatest gift: your health.
Heart Attack Symptoms in Men
No matter how much fun you are having, go to the nearest emergency department or call 9-1-1 if you are experiencing any of these symptoms:
- Chest discomfort, including in the center of your chest, coming and going, uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain
- Upper body discomfort or pain, including in the arms, back, neck, jaw or stomach
- Shortness of breath, with or without chest discomfort
- Other signs, such as breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea, rapid or irregular heartbeat, feeling unusually tired or feeling lightheaded
Heart Attack Symptoms in Women
Additionally, women may experience the following symptoms:
- Anxiety
- Shortness of breath
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Upset stomach
- Pain in the shoulder
- Unusual tiredness and weakness
Again, do not delay – call 9-1-1 immediately if you are having these symptoms.
What to Do for Cardiac Arrest
While heart attack warning signs are sometimes subtle or mistaken for something else, cardiac arrest is unmistakable. When the electrical system in your heart stops pumping blood, a person will stop breathing, lose consciousness and collapse. In this case:
- Call 9-1-1 or ask someone to call for you
- Start performing CPR as soon as possible.
Do not attempt to drive them to the hospital.
Learn how to perform Hands-Only CPR from the American Heart Association
Watch the video below. To open it in another window or save it for later, use https://umms.com/AHA-CPR-Video or this QR code:
Warning Signs for Patients with Heart Failure
If you have heart failure, managing your health at home includes self-checks to know if you are in the RED, YELLOW OR GREEN zone and what to do. This video walks you through what symptoms to look for and when to call your doctor or visit the emergency room – even during the holidays.
Watch the video below. To open it in another window or save it for later, use https://umms.com/CHF-Warnings or use this QR code:
Common Risk Factors for a Heart Attack
Many risk factors for a heart attack are related to lifestyle, but some are inherited from your family. The most common risk factors are:
- High blood pressure or high cholesterol
- Diabetes
- Smoking
- Obesity or inactivity
- Family history of heart disease
- Stress and poor sleep
The good news is that many of these risks can be managed through healthy habits and regular check-ups.
How to Protect Your Heart This Holiday Season
- Keep your routine: Try to stay consistent with sleep, movement and meals. Even short walks help.
- Watch your salt and alcohol intake: Holiday foods and drinks can increase blood pressure and fluid retention.
- Take your medications: Even if you’re traveling or busy, don’t skip your daily medicines.
- Manage stress: Emotional stress and rushing can strain the heart. Take time to breathe, rest and ask for help.
- Know your numbers: If you have high blood pressure, diabetes, or heart failure, keep monitoring as your doctor recommends.
This holiday season — and every season — the best gift you can give your family is a healthy you. Listen to your body, take care of your heart, and don’t hesitate to reach out for help. With a little awareness and preparation, you can celebrate safely and joyfully.
More to Read
- Talk to Your Provider About Improving Your Heart Health
- 6 Ways to Have Heart-Healthy Meals on the Go
- How to Get the Most Out of Your Heart Failure Medicine
- How to Manage High Cholesterol and Protect Your Heart
- Cardiac Arrest vs. Heart Attack: What’s the Difference?
University of Maryland Medical System is a local Live Fierce. Stand for All. sponsor of the American Heart Association.