10/09/2025
Holiday Syndrome
The onset of cardiac arrhythmias, particularly atrial fibrillation (AF), brought on by acute alcohol consumption during weekends, holidays, or celebratory times is referred to as Holiday Syndrome, or more precisely Holiday Heart Syndrome (HHS). It emphasizes the connection between binge drinking and abrupt cardiac rhythm abnormalities, which was first reported by Ettinger et al. in 1978.According to recent research, binge drinking causes autonomic imbalance by upsetting the autonomic nervous system by suppressing parasympathetic tone and raising sympathetic activity. Even in people who have never had heart disease before, this imbalance can cause arrhythmias. Alcohol also causes myocardial irritability, electrolyte imbalances (such as hypokalemia and hypomagnesemia), and changes cardiac ion channels. It's interesting to note that HHS is not just for heavy drinkers. After just one episode of binge drinking, arrhythmias can occur in even the most infrequent drinkers.
Usually, patients arrive with: Palpitations An erratic or fast heartbeat ,Fatigue or lightheadedness ,Breathlessness After consuming large amounts of alcohol, symptoms usually appear within hours and may go away on their own, though in certain situations, medical help is necessary.
The majority of cases happen to middle-aged adults, frequently on weekends or holidays. A disproportionate number of men are impacted. Sleep deprivation, emotional stress, heavy eating, and dehydration—all of which are prevalent during festive times—increase risk.
Limit alcohol intake, especially during holidays....