Heart attacks and strokes spike during the holidays. Here’s why : NPR

The risk of heart attack or stroke increases during the holiday season. surge in deaths from heart disease between Christmas and New Year. “We'll definitely see this in the ER over the holidays,” says Dr Donald Lloyd-Jonescardiologist, head Framingham Heart Study at Boston University School of Medicine.

So what causes the Christmas coronary effect and how can you reduce the risk?

Lloyd-Jones talks about risk factors that put people at risk are present year-round, but the holidays can serve as a tipping point when many factors come together.

“Of course, the weather contributes to this, but also things like infections that infect us in winter, changes in our lifestyle, disruptions to our daily routine and also stress holiday season,” says Lloyd-Jones.

Too much fun with copious amounts of food and alcohol can tire the heart. AND numerous studies show Excess sodium increases blood pressure, causing the heart to work harder.

And while stress is always present, an acute stressor that activates the fight-or-flight response, caused by an argument or difficult situation, can make the situation worse, creating the perfect storm.

“When we're under acute stress, things like our blood pressure can rise dramatically, and this puts extra strain on the cardiovascular system,” says Lloyd-Jones.

Some people mistake the symptoms of a heart attack for an upset stomach or overeating. Here are the classic warning signs:

“Sudden onset, usually severe pressure in the middle of the chest or sudden unexpected shortness of breath,” explains Lloyd-Jones. “These are actually two cardinal symptoms that people should never ignore.”

Sometimes the signs are more subtle. “It's important to remember that not everyone has the textbook symptoms, especially women,” says Dr. Tina Shaha Seattle cardiologist with Kaiser Permanente. It indicates dizziness or pain in the jaw, neck or back, which may radiate from the chest.

Studies also show risk of stroke rises at this time of yearand strokes present differently than heart attacks. To detect signs, there is a mnemonic device known as FAST.

“If you notice facial drooping (that's the letter F), or if you have weakness in your arms or legs on one side or sudden difficulty speaking, it's time to call 911 immediately,” says Lloyd-Jones.

Among holiday trips and meetings, healthy habits can fall to the side of the road. Due to disrupted daily routines, people may forget your medicationssuch as heart and blood pressure medications, says Dr. Luke Laffinpreventive cardiologist at the Cleveland Clinic.

“It's important to make sure you have enough medications for your entire trip,” says Laffin, and if you're flying, pack them in your carry-on luggage so you won't be left without them if your checked luggage goes missing.

As a physician, Laffin has seen an increase in emergency room visits during the holidays. He emphasizes the importance of not delaying or avoiding medical care. Some people talk themselves out of going to the emergency room by thinking their symptoms will go away, which can be a mistake.

“No one will ever blame you for going to the emergency room if your symptoms are severe enough,” Laffin says.

Often when people suspect a heart attack, this is exactly what happens. And finding quick treatment is key.

“If someone comes into the hospital with an ongoing heart attack, the faster we restore blood flow with a stent, the greater the difference will be between someone living an essentially normal life and someone living their life with heart failure,” Laffin says.

Bottom line: better safe than sorry.