Has Your Heart Recovered from the Holidays

Here are 5 things you can do to help prevent a post-holiday heart attack.

The holidays are not always the "most wonderful time of the year", especially if you have heart disease. Research shows that heart attacks spike during the months of December and January and researchers suspect that unhealthy holiday habits are one reason to blame.

"This is the time of year when many people eat larger portions, saltier foods, and drink too much alcohol while often disrupting our healthy habits and exercising less," says Yong Ji MD, cardiologist at PIH Health. "Busy schedules, missed doctor appointments, and family stress all add up to trouble for the heart. Cold weather can also prevent a person from engaging in enough physical activity."

Here are five ways to take care of your heart during this time of the year:

• Keep moving. Even if you can't find time for your favorite fitness class, take a few 10-minute walks during the day or do other short spurts of activity daily. Regular exercise reduces the risk of heart disease.
• Practice moderation. It's okay to enjoy your favorite foods and drinks on occasion but watch portion sizes.
• Protect your emotional health. Don't let anger overtake you or allow little things to stress you out. Find ways to de-stress and relax to keep your heart healthier.
• Get enough sleep. Your body needs the rest and recovery that a good night's sleep provides. So even if you're busy, make getting enough sleep a priority.
• Don't overexert yourself. When you head outside to tackle any outdoor projects or chores, dress warm and in layers. Take frequent breaks and ask for help if the job is too big.

Most importantly, know the warning signs of a heart attack. If you have chest pain or pressure, pain in your arm, back, neck or jaw, shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting or sweating, call 911 immediately.

To find a doctor, go to PIHHealth.org/Doctors.

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