Holiday Heart Syndrome

Posted On: Nov 1, 2022

Sources: Studyvin, DO, MPH, S. (2021, December 20). What is Holiday Heart Syndrome (K. Golden MD, Ed.). Good RX. https://www.goodrx.com/conditions/substance-use-disorder/holiday-heart-syndrome

Brown, K. N., Yelamanchili, V. S., & Goel, A. (2021). Holiday Heart Syndrome. PubMed; StatPearls Publishing. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK537185/#:~:text=The%20holiday%20heart%20syndrome%2C%20also

This article was derived from information provided by the National Library of Medicine and StatPearl Publishing. It is intended to review the cause of holiday heart syndrome by describing the presentation of holiday heart syndrome, summarizing the treatment options for holiday heart syndrome, and explain modalities to improve care coordination among interprofessional team members in order to improve outcomes for patients affected by holiday heart syndrome (Brown et al., 2021).

The holidays are a time for friends and family to get together and celebrate the season. And for many of us, holiday parties include having a few more drinks than usual. But episodes of high alcohol intake can take a toll on the heart. More specifically, they can lead to episodes of heart rhythm abnormalities. This is called “alcohol-induced atrial arrhythmia,” but it’s more commonly referred to as “holiday heart syndrome.”

According to GoodRX: Usually, this is a heart rhythm problem called “atrial fibrillation” (AFib), which causes an irregular heartbeat. And it can happen even if you have no history of heart problems.

The National Library of Medicine defines Holiday Heart Syndrome “as alcohol-induced atrial arrhythmias, is characterized by an acute cardiac rhythm and/or conduction disturbance associated with heavy ethanol consumption in a person without other clinical evidence of heart disease.

What causes holiday heart syndrome?

Even though we know that excess alcohol intake causes holiday heart syndrome, the exact mechanism of how this occurs isn’t fully understood. It’s probably related to the buildup of alcohol metabolites in the body and changes in electrolyte levels. Heavy drinking can also lead to inflammation, high blood pressure, and obstructive sleep apnea. And these problems are also linked to developing AFib.

The exact amount of alcohol that leads to AFib isn’t known. Although this study showed the risk of developing AFib from alcohol depends on the amount consumed. This means that the more you drink, the more likely you are to develop an abnormal rhythm.

There are probably a few other reasons that holiday heart syndrome is more prevalent during the holidays:

People often have time away from work and have get-togethers during the holidays. This may lead people to overindulge in alcohol, even if they don’t drink regularly.
Along with drinking alcohol, people often overeat, or eat less healthy foods than usual — leading to high blood pressure and dehydration.
High expectations about the holiday season may make this a stressful time. Some may also have changes in sleep and exercise schedules.

When should I see a doctor?

If you have noticeable palpitations and have never been told that you have an arrhythmia or AFib in the past, you should see your provider. They can run some quick and simple tests, like an electrocardiogram (ECG), to tell if your heart rate is beating abnormally. They can also set you up with a heart monitor to wear, which can pick up episodes of arrhythmia that occur outside of the office.

If symptoms feel more severe than just palpitations, you should seek emergent medical care. These concerning symptoms might include:

Dizziness or fainting
Chest pain
Trouble breathing
Confusion or disorientation

The best way to avoid holiday heart syndrome is by practicing moderation. Try to enjoy being active with friends and family, and set aside time for some relaxation besides your usual holiday activities. It may be more easily said than done, but being mindful and setting alcohol limits can go a long way in preventing holiday heart syndrome. Most cases go away on their own, but if you have serious or persistent symptoms — you should seek care.

Our highly skilled, board certified cardiologists are here to diagnose and treat heart problems. Contact Campbell County Medical Group Cardiology at 307-688-3700.

Though it is unclear the amount of alcohol that causes these arrhythmias, the most important thing to know is that holiday heart syndrome is reversible. Reducing your alcohol intake can significantly reduce the symptoms of these abnormalities.

If you have noticeable palpitations and have never been told that you have an arrhythmia or AFib in the past, you should see your provider. They can run some quick and simple tests, like an electrocardiogram (ECG), to tell if your heart rate is beating abnormally. They can also provide you with a heart monitor to wear, which can pick up episodes of arrhythmia that occur outside of the doctor’s office

If you experience these symptoms, call 911. Do not lie down to see if the symptoms pass, or drive yourself (or ask a friend to drive you) to Campbell County Memorial Hospital. Call 911.

Additionally, if you suspect you may have an alcohol use disorder, consult with your provider for best treatment options. This can be scary to talk about, but you are not alone. CCH healthcare providers are always eager to answer questions, address concerns and most importantly, help their patients. For more information, or to talk to a provider about symptoms related to holiday heart syndrome, call CCMG Cardiology at 307.688.3700 or visit our website at: https://www.cchwyo.org/services/cardiology/

References

Studyvin, DO, MPH, S. (2021, December 20). What is Holiday Heart Syndrom (K. Golden MD, Ed.). Good RX. https://www.goodrx.com/conditions/substance-use-disorder/holiday-heart-syndrome