Private hospitals across Kolkata are witnessing a concerning increase in patients suffering from 'holiday heart syndrome,' a condition directly linked to excessive alcohol consumption during festive periods and long weekends. Medical professionals anticipate a further rise in such cases as the city celebrates Christmas and New Year with indulgent food and drinks.
What is Holiday Heart Syndrome?
The term 'holiday heart syndrome' clinically refers to atrial fibrillation or other forms of arrhythmia—irregular heartbeats—triggered by binge drinking. This phenomenon becomes notably common during celebratory seasons. The most frequent symptom patients report is heart palpitations, which may be brief or prolonged. In more severe instances with rapid ventricular responses, individuals can experience fatigue, profound weakness, chest pain (angina), breathlessness, or near-fainting spells.
Hospital Admissions See Sharp Uptick
Charnock Hospital has reported a significant 20% surge in cardiac patients over the past week. Dr. Tapopbrata De, a cardiologist at the hospital, explained the confluence of factors: "Cardiac ailments typically rise in winter due to the cold weather, binge-drinking, and sudden consumption of greasy foods. Low temperatures cause arteries to constrict and blood pressure to increase, elevating heart attack risk. The combination of sudden alcohol intake and oily food can spike cholesterol levels, potentially triggering angina or a heart attack."
The situation is similar at other major facilities. Fortis Hospital treated more than a dozen patients in the last seven days for severe dehydration and gastro-esophageal reflux, conditions stemming from hard partying. Dr. KM Mandana, a cardiovascular surgeon at Fortis, noted that many patients are in their 30s and 40s. "They party hard, binge drink till dawn, and end up with chest pain, vomiting, and sweating—classic heart attack symptoms. While most don't have an attack, we are detecting serious cardiac issues like clogged arteries in a significant number," Dr. Mandana stated. He emphasized that binge drinking causes sudden dehydration, and the accompanying oily food exacerbates the problem, creating a dangerous mix for those with undiagnosed heart conditions.
Emergency Cases Highlight Immediate Dangers
The reality of the syndrome hit home on Christmas Eve at BP Poddar Hospital, where two intoxicated patients were rushed to the emergency department. One was in his late thirties, the other around 45. "The second patient showed severe after-effects of heavy drinking, including a dangerously elevated heart rate and altered mental state. He required stabilization before discharge," said Supriyo Chakrabarty, group advisor at BP Poddar.
Dr. Sourabh Goswami, an intervention cardiologist consultant at the same hospital, detailed the physiological impact: "Alcohol disrupts the heart's electrical conduction system, boosts sympathetic nervous activity, and leads to dehydration and electrolyte imbalance." He added a crucial warning: "While the condition is often temporary, it can provoke serious complications requiring urgent care, especially in people with underlying risks like hypertension, diabetes, or pre-existing heart disease."
The trend underscores a critical public health message as the year-end festivities continue. Cardiologists across Kolkata are urging moderation, awareness of one's own health status, and immediate medical attention if symptoms like irregular heartbeat or chest pain occur after heavy drinking.
