Heart attacks cause more deaths in winter
The winter holidays are a time of cele-brating and sharing precious time with family and friends, but they can also be deadly: More people die of heart attacks on Christmas Day than on any other day of the year.
The second-most heart attack deaths happen on Dec. 26, followed by Jan. 1.
Experts aren’t certain what’s behind that troubling fact, but they offer some suggestions to help ensure that you aren’t among them.
“The holidays are a busy, often stressful, time,” said Dr. Mitchell Elkind, chief clinical science officer for the American Heart Association. “Routines are disrupted; we may tend to eat and drink more and exercise and relax less.”
“We also may not be paying attention to warning signs, thinking a trip to the doctor can wait until after the new year.”
While cold weather restricting blood vessels is one potential cause, another study found that even in Los Angeles County’s mild climate, about one-third more heart attacks happen in December and January than in June through September.
Among the ways to stay heart-healthy during the holiday season:
- Celebrate in moderation. Look for small, healthy food swaps to keep overindulging in check. Especially watch your salt intake.
- Keep moving with family walks or other fun activities that help you continue to get the recommended 150 minutes of physical activity weekly.
- Reduce the stress from family interactions, strained finances and hectic schedules by making time for self-care.
- Don’t forget to take medications.
- Know the symptoms of a heart attack, which can vary in men and women. Call 911 as soon as you notice the signs.
Source: HealthDay, American Heart Association
