Pune Cardiologist Explains Early Signs of ‘Holiday Heart Syndrome’, Shares Who Is Most at Risk This Festive Season

Pune | December 28, 2025 The festive season brings joy, celebrations, rich food, late nights and often a little too much indulgence. While most people enjoy this time without problems, doctors are warning that the holidays can quietly strain the heart. A Pune-based cardiologist has now explained a condition called “Holiday Heart Syndrome” and why it tends to appear during celebrations. Dr Jagjeet Deshmukh, cardiologist at Sahyadri Super Speciality Hospital in Pune, says Holiday Heart Syndrome refers to sudden irregular heart rhythms that can occur during or shortly after festivals, weddings, or New Year celebrations. These episodes are often triggered by heavy meals, excessive alcohol, poor sleep, and increased stress. Together, these factors can disrupt the heart’s normal electrical activity. According to Dr Deshmukh, people may suddenly feel heart palpitations, an uneven heartbeat, chest discomfort, breathlessness, dizziness, extreme tiredness, or unexplained anxiety. Many ignore these signs, assuming it is acidity, stress, or simple fatigue. This delay can be risky, especially if symptoms persist or worsen. Alcohol plays a major role, as it directly affects how the heart sends electrical signals. Binge drinking, especially among those who do not drink regularly, increases the risk. People who are more vulnerable include older adults, those with high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, thyroid problems, or existing heart disease. Even otherwise healthy individuals can be affected if they suddenly drink heavily, overeat, skip sleep, or miss regular medications while travelling. Dr Deshmukh advises moderation during celebrations. Eating slowly, limiting alcohol, staying hydrated, getting enough sleep, managing stress, and doing light activity like walking can help protect the heart. People with heart conditions should strictly follow their medicines and avoid sudden lifestyle changes. Festivals are meant to be enjoyed, but listening to your body is just as important. A little balance can go a long way in keeping your heart safe. Pune Cardiologist Explains Early Signs of ‘Holiday Heart Syndrome’, Shares Who Is Most at Risk This Festive Season The festive season is full of celebrations, good food, family time, and late nights. But while the mood is joyful, your heart may not always be celebrating along with you. A Pune-based cardiologist is raising awareness about a condition known as Holiday Heart Syndrome, which often shows up during or just after festive events. Dr Jagjeet Deshmukh, a cardiologist at Sahyadri Super Speciality Hospital in Pune, explains that Holiday Heart Syndrome refers to sudden changes in heart rhythm that can happen after heavy meals, alcohol intake, lack of sleep, and increased stress. These factors together can disturb the heart’s normal electrical signals, even in people who do not have a history of heart disease. Common warning signs include sudden heart palpitations, irregular heartbeat, chest discomfort, shortness of breath, dizziness, extreme tiredness, or a feeling of anxiety without a clear reason. Many people ignore these symptoms, thinking they are caused by acidity, stress, or exhaustion from celebrations. This delay in seeking medical help can be dangerous. Alcohol is one of the biggest triggers, as it affects how the heart functions. People at higher risk include older adults and those with conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, thyroid issues, or existing heart problems. Even healthy individuals can be affected if they suddenly binge drink, overeat, skip sleep, or miss their regular medicines while travelling. Dr Deshmukh advises simple steps to stay safe: eat in moderation, limit alcohol, drink enough water, get proper rest, manage stress, and include light activity like walking. Those with heart conditions should never skip prescribed medicines. Celebrations are important, but so is your health. A little balance can keep your heart strong through the festive season.