The NJ Police Chief Magazine - Volume 30, Number 3 DEC 2023 MAG | Page 23

The New Jersey Police Chief Magazine | December 2023

“ Holiday Heart ” is the Direct Toxic Effect of Alcohol Avoid the Temptation of Seasonal Binge Drinking

Holiday Heart Syndrome is the name for heart arrhythmias or atrial fibrillation that are triggered by heavy drinking over a short time period also known as “ binge drinking .” This concentrated over-indulgence can have an immediate effect on the cardiovascular system .

According to Deborah Cardiologist Joseph Guarino , MD , the alarming reactions can arise in people with no known cardiac risk factors and then subside with no lasting effects .

“ Cumulative effects of alcohol are different than the effects of binge drinking ,” Dr . Guarino said . “ If someone drinks excessively all the time , the heart muscle might directly be affected .”

Holiday Heart is more of an acute process : the direct toxic effect of the alcohol , or changes in electrolytes , Dr . Guarino explained and the “ fluid status in the body might be affected as well .”

Partying Too Hard if you Have a Heart Issue The bigger concern is when someone with heart issues parties too hard . Raising a gallon instead of just a glass is a bad idea , “ but how much are you also eating ?” Dr . Guarino asked .

“ You ’ re overindulging , now you ’ re making your heart work harder because it has to digest all that food . Plus there ’ s an extra load of salt more than likely ,” Dr . Guarino said . “ All of that is a setup for trouble if someone has underlying heart problems .”

This time of year has earned a reputation as the season of excess with good reason . While avoiding the temptations of overindulging this season is a good message for everyone to keep in mind , this is especially important if you are overweight or already being treated for high blood pressure , high cholesterol and other heart issues .

For more information , visit www . demanddeborah . org or call 855.856.7146 .

Cardiologist Joseph Guarino , MD