Excessive Alcohol Use Linked to Heart Conditions
11/17/2022
Winter holidays, parties and social gatherings often provide opportunities to overindulge, but when it comes to alcohol, moderation is important for maintaining good heart health. “Holiday heart syndrome,” or atrial fibrillation (AFib) brought on by binge drinking, can occur in healthy adults without any existing heart conditions and is commonly diagnosed around the holidays.
AFib is an irregular and sometimes rapid heart rhythm that if left untreated can lead to blood clots or strokes. Symptoms of AFib include a racing heartbeat which can feel like a flutter or quiver, dizziness, shortness of breath and chest pain. Luckily, holiday heart syndrome is reversible, but if heavy drinking persists, the risk of developing conditions like heart disease and heart failure increases.
Regular heavy drinking, more than eight drinks per week for women and 15 for men, and binge drinking can lead to ongoing high blood pressure, increased irregular heart rate and weakened heart muscles. 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.
“Drinking too much puts excess strain on your heart and can cause long-term cardiovascular conditions while also increasing your risk of developing some cancers and obesity,” says Matthew Stopper, M.D., FACC, FHRS. “Bottom line, if you choose to drink, practice moderation.” Dr. Stopper is a cardiologist and electrophysiologist at The Heart & Vascular Institute at Regional Hospital of Scranton.
To cut down on drinking, consider removing alcohol from your home, picking a few days a week to abstain and always drink slowly. Stores and restaurants now offer many alcohol free alternatives like non-alcoholic beer, wine and liquor. At holiday gatherings, try sipping on a festive mocktail, sparkling cider or your favorite zero proof drink. If efforts to cut back don't work, it may be time to speak with a healthcare professional.
The Heart and Vascular Institute at Regional Hospital of Scranton offers cardiovascular services from cardiac caths to transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) locally and was recognized by American College of Cardiology (ACC) in U.S. News & World Report’s 2023 “Best Hospitals” guidebook as the top ranked hospital for cardiovascular outcomes in our area.
To find a physician, call 1-800-838-WELL or visit cwhphysiciannetwork.net to be connected with one of Commonwealth Health Physician Network's qualified primary care physicians or cardiologists.
Most major insurance plans are accepted, including Geisinger Health Plan.
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