Cardiologist urges alcohol moderation to avoid ‘Holiday Heart Syndrome’ this Thanksgiving

CHESTERFIELD COUNTY, Va. (WRIC) -- One UVA Cardiologist is warning about a condition called Holiday Heart Syndrome (HHS) as people gather and enjoy alcoholic beverages over the holiday season.

HHS is a long recognized condition in which binge drinking can lead to fast heart rhythms that can be problematic for individuals.

Dr. Christopher Kramer, UVA Health Chief of Cardiology, noted that the most common rhythm provoked by HHS is Atrial Fibrillation (A-Fib) which is an irregular rhythm of the heart's upper chamber.

“That is very common, especially as we get older, in patients of all types," said Dr. Kramer.

Symptoms of Holiday Heart Syndrome typically include a rapid fluttering in the chest, shortness of breath, and fatigue. These symptoms generally appear during or immediately after an episode of binge drinking.

“Small blood clots can form in the atrium and this can lead to stroke, embolic stroke, meaning that these blood clots can travel to the brain and lead to, to smaller or even larger strokes," said Dr. Kramer.

Although excessive alcohol consumption is the primary trigger, doctors note that it can often be combined with other seasonal factors including stress, poor sleep and sudden change in diet.

These elements contribute to the higher number of heart-related cases seen between late November and early January. Salty foods can also plays a role, especially for those with existing heart conditions.

“Any large meal which can have a lot of salt involved, such as Thanksgiving, or other holidays, can lead to exacerbated signs of, of heart failure," Dr. Kramer explained.

The irregular rhythm caused by Holiday Heart Syndrome goes away within 24 hours after it starts. However, doctors suggest that if you experience continued chest palpitations, chest pain, or significant shortness of breath, you should go to the emergency room.