Excessive Alcohol Use Linked to Heart Conditions
11/11/2022
TUCSON, AZ – Holiday parties and social gatherings are often opportunities to overindulge in alcohol – but moderation is important for good heart health. A condition called “holiday heart syndrome,” or atrial fibrillation (AFib) can develop in healthy adults without heart disease – especially if they binge drink. It is commonly diagnosed this time of year.
AFib is an irregular and sometimes rapid heart rhythm. If left untreated, it can lead to blood clots or strokes. Symptoms of AFib include a racing heartbeat which may feel like a flutter or quiver; dizziness; shortness of breath; and chest pain.
Fortunately, the condition is often reversible, but if the patient continues to drink heavily (more than eight drinks per week for women and 15 for men) the risk of long-term heart disease, heart failure, and high blood pressure increases.
“Drinking too much puts excess strain on your heart,” said Dr. Osama Abdel-Hafez, M.D., an interventional cardiologist with Northwest Healthcare’s Northwest Cardiology – Houghton. “It also increases your risk of developing obesity as well as some types of cancer. So, if you choose to drink, it’s wise to practice moderation and to avoid binge drinking, which means more than five drinks for men and four for women.”
According to the American College of Cardiology, eliminating alcohol abuse would result in over 34,000 fewer heart attacks, 73,000 fewer atrial fibrillation cases and 91,000 fewer patients with congestive heart failure.
To cut down on drinking, consider removing alcohol from your home; choosing a few days a week to abstain; and making an effort to drink slowly. Because so many people want to drink less, stores and restaurants now offer alcohol-free beer, wine and liquor. At holiday gatherings, try sipping on a festive mocktail or sparkling cider.
“If efforts to cut back don’t work for you, it may be time to speak with a healthcare professional,” Dr. Abdel-Hafez said.
To schedule an appointment with Dr. Abdel-Hafez or another Northwest Healthcare physician, please visit MyTucsonDoc.com.
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