The holidays are a time for cozy sweaters, warm meals, and making memories with family and friends. But while we’re busy celebrating, it’s easy to forget that December and January are also the riskiest months for heart health. In fact, studies show that heart-related deaths spike by 5% during the holiday season, with Christmas and New Year’s Day ranking among the deadliest days for cardiac events. At Arkansas Heart, we want to make sure you stay safe and healthy so you can enjoy the season to its fullest. Whether you need urgent care or just want to check in on your heart health, we’ve got you covered.
Why Is Your Heart Under Extra Pressure in Winter?
It’s not just the weather—there are a lot of sneaky factors this time of year that can take a toll on your heart:
- Chilly Temperatures: You know that feeling when you step outside and the cold air hits your face? That same cold causes your blood vessels to tighten, which raises your blood pressure and makes your heart work harder. For people with underlying heart conditions, this can be dangerous.
- Holiday Stress: As much as we love the holidays, they can be stressful. Between the long to-do lists, travel plans, and packed schedules, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Stress raises blood pressure and heart rate—a combination that’s tough on your heart.
- Indulging a Little Too Much: Who doesn’t love a holiday feast? Unfortunately, salty foods, sugary treats, and one-too-many cocktails can lead to higher blood pressure, weight gain, and added strain on your heart. Studies have found that overeating during the holidays may increase the risk of heart attacks by up to 33%.
- Skipping Doctor’s Visits: It’s easy to push things like heart screenings or checkups to the bottom of your list during the holiday rush. But conditions like high blood pressure or high cholesterol don’t take a break just because you’re busy.
- Being Less Active: When it’s cold outside, staying on the couch with a blanket sounds much better than going for a walk. But being less active increases your risk for heart disease.
Heart Disease Doesn’t Always Give You a Warning
Here’s the tricky part: heart disease is often a silent killer. You might feel fine, even if something serious is going on. Many people don’t realize they have heart disease until a major event, like a heart attack, happens.
If you have any of these risk factors, it’s especially important to be proactive:
- Family history of heart disease
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Diabetes
- Smoking
- Being overweight
- Not getting enough exercise
Don’t wait until something feels wrong—catching heart issues early can save your life.
Be Proactive: Schedule a Heart Screening
A simple heart screening can give you peace of mind and help you stay ahead of any problems. At Arkansas Heart Hospital, we offer quick, advanced screenings that can spot heart issues early so you can enjoy life worry-free.
The holidays are the perfect time to give yourself (and your loved ones) the gift of health. If you haven’t had your heart checked in a while, schedule a screening today.
Know the Signs of a Heart Emergency
Even with the best planning, emergencies can happen. If you or someone you love experiences any of these signs, don’t wait—call 911 and head straight to Arkansas Heart Hospital:
- Chest pain or pressure
- Shortness of breath
- Pain that spreads to the arm, jaw, neck, or back
- Feeling nauseous, dizzy, or breaking into a cold sweat
Every minute counts during a heart attack, and we’re ready 24/7 to provide life-saving care when you need it most.
We’re Here for Your Heart
At Arkansas Heart Hospital, your heart health matters to us, not just during the holidays but all year long. Whether you need emergency care, a screening, or advice to live a healthier life, our team is here to support you every step of the way.
Take care of your heart this winter. Schedule a heart screening or trust us for expert care when it matters most. Your health can’t wait—and neither should you.