Plans to watch the big game? Take care of your heart health

In major sports games, athletes aren't the only ones with racing hearts.

Some hardcore fans, whether they’re watching in the stands or at home, get caught up in the emotion of the game.

There’s evidence that competitive, high-stakes sporting events can increase the likelihood of heart attacks or heart rhythm disturbances, particularly in people at high risk.

This phenomenon is not uncommon

I’ve seen someone experience a heart attack during an emotionally charged game when I served as a physician for spectators at a college football game.

It can happen.

The results of plays can lead to spikes in adrenaline, blood pressure and heart rate in sports fans because of emotional and physiological stress.

These effects are far worse in those with underlying cardiovascular risk factors, such as coronary artery disease, hypertension or a history of arrhythmias, as their cardiovascular systems are more vulnerable to stress-induced events.

Who is high-risk?

• People with pre-existing heart disease (angina, prior heart attack or heart failure)
• Those with uncontrolled hypertension
• Individuals with arrhythmias or a history of sudden cardiac events
• Smokers, diabetics or those with high cholesterol
• People who aren't active and have poor overall health

How does stress during a game affect your heart?

Emotional stress can trigger the sympathetic nervous system (your fight-or-flight response) by releasing adrenaline and cortisol.

The following can happen next:

• Your heart rate and blood pressure elevate.
• You’re at an increased risk of plaque rupturing in your arteries, leading to a heart attack.
• The likelihood of arrhythmias can increase due to greater electrical instability in the heart.

It doesn’t help that much of what’s offered at game day events is often fried, unhealthy and accompanied by alcohol. That can actually worsen the situation.

Alcohol can contribute to dehydration, which can lead to electrolyte imbalances and trigger irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias). Rising blood pressure and cholesterol from fatty and fried foods increases the risk of heart attacks. And eating too much can cause your body to react in a way that might make you faint or feel like your heart is beating strangely (postprandial hypotension arrhythimias).

It might also be in your genes to have heart health issues.

How to prevent a cardiac event as a spectator

Here’s what you can do to take care of your heart while still supporting your team:

• Don't go overboard with alcohol, and try to stick to snacks that are good for your heart.
• Take a breather if things get too heated during the game.
• When you're stressed, try some deep breathing or a bit of meditation.

Signs to look for in case of a heart event:

• Chest pain or discomfort
• Shortness of breath
• Dizziness, lightheadedness or fainting
• Palpitations or an irregular heartbeat
• Cold sweat, nausea, or indigestion-like symptoms

If you or a loved one experiences these types of symptoms, here’s what to do:

• Call 911 immediately.
• Have the person rest and remain calm.
• Administer aspirin if a heart attack is suspected and it’s safe for the person.
• Use an automated external defibrillator (AED) if available for arrhythmias.

It’s advisable to be mindful of emotional and physical responses to sporting events, especially for those at risk.