By Dr. Sarfaraz Dhanji
’Tis the season to be jolly’, but amidst the fa-la-la-ing and merry-making, there’s a thing or two that you need to keep an eye on – Holiday Heart Syndrome! It might sound like the Grinch sneaking into your festivities, but worry not, it’s less of a troublemaker and more of a cautionary tale.
What in the Jingle Bells is Holiday Heart Syndrome?
Picture this: your heart, usually a well-orchestrated symphony conductor, suddenly decides to cha-cha or waltz when it should be humming a cozy tune. That’s the essence of Holiday Heart Syndrome – an unexpected rhythm twist in the heart due to festive shenanigans. Now, we’re not trying to be party poopers, but active adults over fifty-five need to be mindful. Age brings wisdom, but it can also make the heart a tad sensitive. Excessive merry sipping, devouring the whole cookie jar, and embracing stress like an unwanted fruitcake can lead to heart rhythm irregularities.
Signs Your Heart’s Singing a Different Carol
If your heart decides to go jazz when it usually plays a slow ballad, it might be trying to tell you something. Look out for rapid beats, feeling like your heart’s doing the tango in your chest, shortness of breath (that’s not from too much laughter), or feeling lightheaded. If your heart’s staging a performance, it’s best to give the medical pros a ring. Let’s deck our halls with boughs of moderation! Here’s how you can have your fruitcake and eat it too:
Sip Smart: No need to turn down the punch bowl altogether, but consider a slower groove on the alcohol. Drink water between sips or opt for mocktails that still bring the holiday cheer.
Nibble Mindfully: Those gingerbread cookies and yule logs are tempting, we know! Enjoy them, but sprinkle in some healthy munchies too. Veggies and fruits can be the silent heroes of the buffet table.
Stress Less, Laugh More: ’Tis the season for joy! Take a breather, indulge in festive fun, and remember to laugh – it’s the best gift for your heart.
Catch Zzz’s: Sleeping is like a cozy blanket for your heart. Make sure you’re getting enough shut-eye amidst the holiday hustle.
Consult Your Doctor: If your heart’s feeling more like Rudolph with a red nose than a twinkling star, don’t hesitate to seek help from the medical elves. They know their stuff!
So, let’s jingle responsibly this holiday season! Your heart deserves all the warmth and joy, and a little mindful celebration ensures you’ll be rockin’ around the Christmas tree for many seasons to come. Listen to your heart’s tune, keep it light, and have a holly, jolly, heart-happy holiday!
Dr. Sarfaraz Dhaji is a concierge medical provider located in the Baymeadows area.
Photo Credit: RDNE Stock projectÂ
