Holiday Stress and Heart Health: How I Stay Safe During the Holidays

The holiday season is one of my favorite times of the year – filled with joy, family gatherings, and celebrations. However, I’ve also learned that holiday stress can have serious effects on my health, especially my heart. Health experts warn that stress can lead to dangerous health problems, and if I’m not careful, it could even land me in the emergency room!

As a parent, I know the struggles of the night before Christmas. I can recall staying up late, assembling toys for my kids. The exhaustion is real, but what I didn’t know back then was how much stress can impact my heart health.

Doctors, including Dr. Ibrahim Shah, an interventional cardiologist at McLaren Hospital, emphasize the importance of managing stress during the holidays. He refers to this as “holiday heart syndrome.” Dr. Shah explains that stress can cause serious symptoms like:

Irregular heartbeats
Increased heart rate
Swollen ankles
Chest heaviness
Shortness of breath
Sudden fatigue
Dizziness

For those like me who already have risk factors for heart disease – such as high blood pressure or high cholesterol – it’s even more important to be mindful of the stress I take on.

Thankfully, there are steps I can take to reduce the impact of stress on my heart. Dr. Shah recommends simple methods like deep breathing exercises, meditation, and regular physical activity. Just 5 to 10 minutes of relaxation a day can help lower stress hormones and keep my heart safe.

I’ve also found that planning ahead can greatly reduce stress. Rosemary Pavlik, who hosted family holiday parties for years, advises planning well in advance to avoid last-minute panic. “The holidays are not about perfection,” she says. “They are about enjoying time with loved ones.”

This year, I’m focusing on what truly matters – spending quality time with my family and enjoying the fun moments without stressing over every little detail.

However, if I experience any signs like chest pain or difficulty breathing, Dr. Shah strongly advises seeking medical help immediately. It's crucial to rule out more serious issues like heart attacks.

So, this holiday season, I’ll continue to manage my stress, take care of my heart, and, most importantly, cherish the time spent with my loved ones.