Stress, cold weather and festive indulgence make the holiday season the most dangerous time of year for heart emergencies.

American Medical Response found that cardiac emergencies increase by more than 30 percent on Christmas Eve. This makes it their busiest day of the year for heart-related incidents. This trend aligns with national data from the American Heart Association showing the majority of cardiac deaths in the U.S. occur during the last week of December.

“Throughout the holidays, we often see people ignore warning signs of heart trouble because they don’t want to disrupt family celebrations,” said Dr. Ed Racht, chief medical officer of Global Medical Response, AMR’s parent company. “Whether it’s chest pain, a racing heartbeat or a sudden collapse, these symptoms could signal a heart attack, dangerous arrhythmia or even cardiac arrest. Time is critical in these emergencies.

Cardiac risk rises this time of year due to several well-documented factors:

-Overeating and high-salt meals that raise blood pressure

-Increased alcohol consumption, which can strain the heart and trigger arrhythmias

-Emotional stress from travel and family dynamics

-Cold temperatures that make the heart work harder

-Delays in seeking medical care because people are traveling or don’t want to leave gatherings

Cardiac arrest happens when the heart unexpectedly stops, interrupting blood flow to the brain and other crucial organs. It usually strikes without any warning, causing people to collapse suddenly. This is a serious medical emergency that demands immediate attention. If it happens, call 911, start Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation and use an automated external defibrillator if available until help arrives.

Early CPR and AED use can significantly improve survival, and many communities offer accessible training programs. Learning CPR is one of the most impactful ways families can prepare for a cardiac emergency.

Heart attacks happen when blood flow to part of the heart is blocked. The heart usually keeps beating, though it may be weak or irregular.

“The priority is to call emergency services immediately, and keep the person as calm as possible,” said Racht.

-Chest pain, pressure, tightness or discomfort

-Pain radiating to the arms, jaw, neck or back

-Sudden shortness of breath

-Lightheadedness, fainting or sudden confusion

-Cold sweats, nausea or vomiting

-A new or worsening irregular or racing heartbeat

-Heartburn or indigestion.

Nearly one in four heart attacks go unrecognized, especially in women, because the symptoms can be subtle such as nausea, indigestion, fatigue or shoulder aches rather than the classic chest pain most people experience.

“If you’re questioning whether to call 911, that’s often your answer,” said Racht.

When someone calls 911 for a suspected cardiac emergency, paramedics can begin life-saving care within minutes. Depending on local protocols, crews may:

-Perform a 12-lead electrocardiogram to quickly identify a heart attack

-Start intravenous access and administer cardiac medications

-Provide oxygen therapy

-Treat dangerous heart rhythms

-Notify the hospital ahead of arrival so the cardiac team is activated

“Rapid treatment significantly improves survival,” said Racht. “Driving yourself or waiting to see if symptoms improve can delay critical care.”

How to reduce cardiac risk this holiday season:

-Keep meals and alcohol in moderation

-Stay hydrated

-Continue taking medications as prescribed

-Avoid sudden heavy exertion in cold weather

-Get enough rest amid holiday stress

-Check in on older relatives or loved ones with heart disease

As the saying goes, “Laughter is the best medicine,” and this season, it truly is. Laughter relaxes and expands blood vessels, increasing blood flow by up to 20 percent. By embracing happiness and shared moments of joy, we support our heart health and strengthen our bonds.

“Make laughter a priority and if something doesn’t feel right, always listen to your body and get help when needed,” said Racht. “Together, let’s make these festivities both joyful and heart healthy.”