Cardiologist warns holiday behavior can trigger heart problems in some at-risk adults

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (WBTV) - A Novant Health cardiologist said holiday stress, holiday depression, travel and unhealthy eating can negatively affect heart health.

Thanksgiving is about two weeks away, followed by Christmas and New Year’s Eve.

Dr. Kobina Wilmot said medical emergencies do not stop during the holidays.

“Heart attacks don’t stop because it’s the holidays. Strokes don’t stop because it’s the holidays,” Wilmot said.

Holiday factors that affect heart health

Wilmot said behavior during the holiday season can trigger heart attacks and strokes. He said holiday stress, holiday depression, travel and unhealthy eating can all negatively affect heart health.

“It’s tough because you have patients who have risks potentially and then we’re going into a time period where a lot of norms change,” Wilmot said.

“There are just a lot of things that kind of storm at one time that create a perfect storm for problems to occur,” he said.

Wilmot said the most common problems he sees around the holidays are heart attack and heart failure.

How to avoid a holiday health scare

Wilmot said avoiding a holiday health scare comes down to routine.

“The best thing to do is stay on your regimen, so if you stay active, physically active, doing your walks. If you have to travel, maybe take breaks on your drive,” Wilmot said.

He said people should try to avoid overloading on unhealthy dishes at meals if healthier options are available.

“Instead of candied yams, maybe you do regular sweet potatoes and roast them,” Wilmot suggested.

Wilmot also warned against binge drinking. He said people who take medication need to stick to their schedule during the holidays. He also recommended family walks to stay active.

When to get checked

Wilmot said people should not hesitate to get checked if something feels wrong.

“Go get checked out. Make sure that we assess ourselves, somebody assesses you. I know some people get frustrated. I don’t want to go to the ER. I don’t want to be stuck in the ER. I’d rather be waiting in the ER for a few hours then wait home and not make it to the hospital,” Wilmot said.