Report: Heart-related deaths increase during holiday season

The American Heart Association reports that heart-related deaths increase during the holiday season.

A New Zealand study diminished the cold winter season as a factor because Christmas time occurs during the warmer months.

For 25 years, researchers looked at nearly 800,000 deaths during the holiday season, 25 percent of which were cardiac-related deaths.

Factors included stress, changes in diet and alcohol consumption.

Another factor that can also be prevented was not seeing a physician during the holidays, especially those already living with a cardiac-related illness or disease.

Dr. Oscar Munoz, a cardiologist at Del Sol Medical Center said in cardiovascular disease there is a higher chance for a sudden emergency like a heart attack.

He said ignoring doctor’s appointments because of the holiday distractions could be dangerous. If you are traveling, be prepared.

“Remember to all your medications available. If you’re going to travel, carry all your bottles and make sure you have enough for two, three extra weeks,” Dr. Munoz said.

He also recommended getting familiar with your destination to ensure there is a hospital nearby in case of an emergency.

Lastly, if you are unaware about any heart-related conditions, do your homework. Dr. Munoz said if you have family history of cardiac disease, see a doctor.

“You should look into your cholesterol, make sure your blood pressure is good and you should diet and exercise,” Munoz said.

To read The American Heart Association’s full report, click here.