Doctors at Norton Heart and Vascular Institute warn of increase in heart attacks during the holidays

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) — While the joy of the holidays makes your heart full, the stress that comes with them can hurt it.

Cardiologists at Norton Heart and Vascular Institute said they see a 5% uptick in heart attacks and heart-related Emergency Room visits from Thanksgiving to the New Year.

Many things can contribute like holiday stress, food and alcohol and colder temperatures. Doctors said the most important thing is if you have symptoms don't ignore them.

“Call 911 if you’re having acute symptoms, you’re feeling short of breath, you’re having chest pain, you’re having more swelling in your legs than usual," Dr. Mohammad F. Mathbout, of Norton Heart and Vascular Institute, said. "If you’re unable to lay flat on your back or you’re getting short winded, this is something your doctor needs to know about. And if it is difficult to reach him during the holidays, call 911, come to the hospital. These symptoms need to be addressed sooner as opposed to later.”

Doctors said early signs of a heart attack happen in more than 50% of people who do eventually have one.