According to research published in the American Heart Association’s journal Circulation, more heart attack deaths happen during holiday season than any other time of year.

The study reported that more cardiac arrests are reported on December 25 than any other day of the year, with December 26 reporting the second largest numbers and January 1 the third highest.

With the added stress of a pending snow storm for the holiday travel week,  Sam Kazziha, M.D., an interventional cardiologist at Henry Ford Health, reminds people that the holidays should be a time to care for oneself mentally and physically.

“People with cardiovascular disease and on medication should keep in mind the signs of heart attack and stroke, especially around the holidays when stress levels are elevated,” said Dr. Kazziha.

The pending winter snow and cold temperatures in Michigan will add to the busy and stressful holiday season. Shoveling heavy snow in freezing temperatures is a risk most heart unhealthy people should avoid, reminds Dr. Kazziha.

The American Heart Association offers the following heart-healthy tips for people to keep in mind this holiday season:

• Know symptoms and take action: Heart attack signs vary in men and women and it’s important to recognize them early and call 9-1-1 for help. The sooner medical treatment begins, the better the chances of survival and preventing heart damage.
• Celebrate in moderation Eating healthfully during the holidays doesn’t have to mean depriving yourself, there are still ways to eat smart. Look for small, healthy changes and swaps you can make so you continue to feel your best while eating and drinking less, and don’t forget to watch your salt intake.
• Plan for peace on earth and goodwill toward yourself: Make time to take care of yourself during the busy holiday. Reduce stress from family interactions, strained finances, hectic schedules and other stressors prevalent this time of year, including traveling.
• Keep moving: The American Heart Association recommends at least 150 minutes of physical activity per week and this number usually drops during the hustle and bustle of the holidays. Get creative with ways to stay active, even if it’s going for a family walk or another fun activity you can do with your loved ones.  
• Stick to your meds: Busy holidays can cause you to skip medications, forgetting them when away from home or not getting refills in a timely manner. Here is a medication chart to help stay on top of it, and be sure to keep tabs on your blood pressure numbers.