DID YOU KNOW that the risk of having heart attacks leading to death is highest during the holidays?

This is according to the Circulation Journal of the American Heart Association's research based on trends and statistics which revealed that cardiac mortality is highest during December and January. The period focused on Christmas and New Year. The findings suggest that the holidays are a risk factor for cardiac and non-cardiac mortality.

Abrupt change

Every year, people suddenly change their lifestyle. The abrupt change in the pattern of eating, drinking, sleeping, exercising, working, celebrating and vacationing has an effect on the health and emotional condition of individuals. Some studies also indicate that suicides, homicides and automobile accidents increase during the winter season. There are several reasons highlighted.

• Changes in diet and alcohol consumption were noted. In short, people tend to eat and drink beyond their limit.
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• Emotional stress is connected to increased financial pleasures.
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• When travelling, people have no access to medical attention or are delayed in seeking medical help.
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• Weight gain during the holiday season
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• Increased salt intake puts additional stress on the heart.
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• Reduced level of qualified staff and quality of healthcare in hospitals
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• Increased respiratory problems
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• Colder weather leads to increased vascular resistance, coronary spasms.
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• Decreased daylight hours