Holiday Heart Syndrome

Doctors in Copenhagen , Denmark , have analyzed the results of self-reported alcohol use and the occurrence of an abnormal heart rhythm, atrial fibrillation. Alcohol consumption in moderate amounts (three or fewer drinks a day) didn’t lead to an increase in fibrillation. More – 35 or more drinks a week – however, led to an increased risk in men. (There weren’t enough women in this category to analyze any effect properly). Overall, about 5% of all cases of atrial fibrillation are due to heavy alcohol use.

Interestingly, there was no difference in the results when the presence of raised blood pressure or coronary heart disease was included in the analysis. This suggests that large amounts of alcohol may act as a toxin to the heart (as has been shown in rats). The authors remind us that these results were obtained in Danes, and may not necessarily be valid for US citizens – further studies are needed!