The Holidays Come With Health Risks: Know the Difference Between Heartburn and a Heart Attack

11/18/2024

MOBERLY, Mo., November 18, 2024 – As Thanksgiving and other holidays approach, many Americans look forward to all of the festivities, spending time with family and friends, and indulging in traditional holiday dishes. But, what many people don’t know is that during the holiday season there may also be a higher risk of two health conditions - heartburn and heart attack.

“Heartburn and heart attacks are not the same and not related, but sometimes they can be hard to tell apart,” said Dr. Dana Valencia, cardiologist at Moberly Regional Medical Center. “If a person is experiencing a heart attack, they are more likely to feel pain, pressure or a tight squeezing feeling in the chest. Heartburn symptoms typically feel more like a burning sensation and can cause a bitter or sour taste to travel to your mouth.”

Heartburn is very common, and can be avoided. In fact, the American Gastroenterological Association estimates that more than 60 million Americans experience it at least once a month.

Rich holiday meals, overeating, and drinking alcohol can trigger heartburn, making it even more common during holiday periods. Dr. Valencia shares tips to help prevent the discomfort of holiday (or anytime) heartburn.

• Eat smaller, balanced meals to avoid overloading your digestive system.
• Avoid spicy foods and choose low-fat, low-acid ingredients to reduce heartburn triggers.
• Stay hydrated with water and avoid alcohol consumption.
• Don’t lie down after a big meal. Instead, take a walk to stimulate digestion and reduce blood pressure.
• Manage symptoms with over-the-counter medications that usually bring fast relief.

“We want people to enjoy all of the things associated with the holidays without feeling sick,” said Dr. Valencia. “It’s important for individuals to find the spot between overindulgence and moderation.”

If heartburn does not subside, or becomes more frequent, it’s important to talk to a gastroenterologist. Ongoing heartburn is one of the most common symptoms of GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), which can result in more serious complications if left untreated.

Heart attacks also occur more frequently during the winter holidays, especially on Christmas Day and during the last week of the year. The holidays can be a stressful time. Normal routines are often disrupted. People get busy and tend to sleep less. They are likely to eat and drink more. Winter weather can also lead to constricted vessels caused by cold temperatures, resulting in restricted blood flow in the body.

Heart attack symptoms can include tightness, discomfort or pain in the chest. Pain may also be felt in the jaw, neck, arm or back. Other signs include shortness of breath, lightheadedness, dizziness, nausea and vomiting.

“Don’t let your fear of spoiling the holidays allow you to ignore the warning signs of a heart attack,” said Dr. Valencia. “During a heart attack, the heart’s tissue is damaged and that can happen very quickly. Fast medical treatment can be the difference between life and death.”

Source:
American College of Gastroenterology
American Gastroenterological Association

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