Christmas Coronary Conundrum
The season of joy can also be a season of cardiac risk. Keeping a few things in mind and doing a few simple things can greatly reduce your risk of a Christmas coronary.
- Take the time to really distress. Don’t complicate the season with too much busyness or bustle. Reduce your blood pressure and stress level by living peacefully. Use your extra time to develop a healthy habit like walking or swimming.
- Enjoy the Holiday Spirit without imbibing too many spirits. Alcohol consumption increases our risk for heart attacks as well as choking. NEVER drink and drive. Call a cab if needed.
- Enjoy the food, but eat in moderation. High fat meals can render your arteries to be less effective for up to 12 hours! Moderate your fat intake with some whole vegetables and plenty of clear water.
- Keep on track with all of your medications and health regimens. Take your meds as prescribed and get some moderate exercise. Don’t just sit on the couch looking at the decorations. Drink plenty of water.
- Some experts believe that particles in wood smoke can cause damage to your arteries as well as the known lung hazards like pneumonia and asthma. Enjoy the fire, but in a well ventilated area.
- Get help fast. Some experts think that people delay treatment of minor symptoms or even severe ones because of “not wanting to spoil the holidays” for others.
Signs and symptoms of a heart attack may include:
- Chest pain or discomfort in the center of the chest that may feel like pressure, squeezing or fullness.
- Pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or stomach.
- Shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, especially with exertion.
- Cold sweating and sudden exhaustion.
- Nausea and dizziness.
Listen to your body, and if you’re having any symptoms of a heart attack, take 2 adult aspirin, stay calm and call 9-1-1 immediately. We are available 24/7 even on holidays. Help is on the way.