Alcohol & Heart Health

We all know that excessive alcohol consumption isn’t great for our bodies, but how often do we stop to think about what it’s doing to our hearts? A drink or two may not seem to be too dangerous, but regular or heavy drinking can have a profound effect on heart health, causing high blood pressure, heart disease, and sometimes even heart attacks.

If it is concomitant with smoking, the danger increases manifold. Accumulating them gives way to a dual attack on this fascinating cardiovascular system, raising the odds of developing potentially fatal conditions. But don’t get intimidated—recognising these kinds of potential dangers is a great start to making better decisions. Let’s take a look at the alcohol and smoking effect on heart health, symptoms you need not ignore, and things you can do to save your heart from further damage.

Complications of Chronic Alcoholism

You might have heard conflicting opinions about alcohol and heart health. Some say a glass of red wine is good for the heart, while others warn against drinking altogether. The simple fact is that moderation is required. Though drinking occasionally is not harmful, too much has a lot of adverse effects on the heart:

Hypertension

Excessive consumption of alcohol usually leads to increased blood pressure, which consequently causes tension in the arteries and heart. High blood pressure is a well-known cause of strokes, heart attacks, and heart failure.

Irregular Heartbeat (Arrhythmia)

Ever noticed your heart racing after a few drinks? Alcohol can trigger irregular heart rhythms, known as arrhythmias, which can be dangerous. Chest pain after drinking alcohol could be a warning sign of underlying heart problems.

Alcoholic Cardiomyopathy (Weakened Heart Muscles)

Long-term excessive drinking exposes one to cardiac dilation, in which the heart muscles weaken, making it very hard for the heart to pump blood to other parts of the body. This invariably causes fatigue, swelling, and heart failure.

High Cholesterol and Fat Deposit

Alcohol increases the amounts of bad cholesterol (LDL) and triglycerides, causing the arteries to deposit with plaque action that is sure to lead to clogged arteries, stroke, and even heart attack. Does smoking increase cholesterol? Yes, and in combination with alcohol, it even raises the risk of clogged arteries.

Increased Risk of Heart Attack and Stroke

Can alcohol cause a heart attack? Yes. Heavy drinking weakens the heart, leading to long-term damage. Excessive alcohol consumption also increases the chances of clot formation, raising the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

The reason smoking worsens the predicament:

An addict who drinks also smokes to ramp up the attacks on the heart. Here’s how it works:

• Smoking is detrimental to your heart because it lowers the oxygen concentration in the blood and makes the heart work harder.
• It causes damage to blood vessels, and elevation of blood pressure leads to hypertension. 
• Smoking contributes to high cholesterol, increasing plaque buildup in arteries.
• It raises the risk of blood clots, which can cause heart attacks and strokes.

Even smoking one cigarette a day can significantly increase your risk of heart disease. The combination of smoking and drinking is especially dangerous, as both contribute to inflammation, artery damage, and reduced oxygen flow in the body.

Symptoms of Alcohol-Related Heart Disease

Your body gives warning signs of heart disease from alcohol. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s time to reconsider your drinking habits and seek medical attention:

• Shortness of Breath – If you find yourself struggling to breathe, even without intense physical activity, your heart may not be pumping efficiently.
• Chest Pain after Drinking Alcohol – This could indicate heart strain or an underlying cardiovascular condition.
• Rapid or Irregular Heartbeat – Heart palpitations or skipped beats may be a sign of arrhythmia caused by excessive alcohol consumption.
• Swelling in the Legs, Ankles, or Feet – Poor circulation due to weakened heart function can lead to fluid retention in the lower extremities.
• Dizziness or Fainting – Alcohol can cause sudden drops in blood pressure, leading to lightheadedness or fainting spells.
• Fatigue and Weakness – If your heart is struggling to pump blood efficiently, you may feel constantly tired, even after adequate rest.
• Stabbing Pain in the Chest after Drinking Alcohol – Sharp or persistent pain in your chest could be a warning sign of an impending heart attack.
• Persistent Coughing or Wheezing – A weak heart can cause fluid buildup in the lungs, leading to chronic coughing.
• Cold Sweats and Nausea – If you experience cold sweats, nausea, or discomfort in your upper body, these could be early signs of a heart attack.
• Difficulty Sleeping or Waking Up Short of Breath – Heart failure can cause sleep disturbances, particularly when lying down, due to fluid accumulation in the lungs.

If these symptoms persist, consult a doctor immediately.

How to Reduce Your Risk and Protect Your Heart?

Making small lifestyle changes can significantly improve heart health. Here’s what you can do:

Cut Back on Alcohol

• Stick to moderate drinking guidelines—one drink per day for women, two for men.
• Consider alcohol-free days to give your body a break.
• If you struggle with reducing your intake, seek professional help.

Quit Smoking

• Even if you’ve smoked for years, quitting reduces your heart disease risk dramatically.
• The benefits of quitting smoking include better circulation, lower blood pressure, and reduced cholesterol levels.
• Seek support groups, nicotine replacement therapy, or counselling if needed.

Improve Your Diet

• Reduce saturated fats, processed foods, and sugar.
• Increase fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.
• Consider foods that help lower cholesterol and blood pressure.

Exercise Regularly

• Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days.
• Walking, swimming, cycling, and strength training all benefit heart health.

Manage Stress

• Chronic stress contributes to high blood pressure and heart disease.
• Practice meditation, deep breathing, or engage in hobbies to relieve stress.

Get Regular Checkups

• Schedule regular health screenings, especially if you have a history of heart disease.
• Monitor your cholesterol, blood pressure, and overall cardiovascular health.

Final Thoughts: Your Heart Deserves Better

Your heart is one of the most vital organs in your body—why put it at risk? Alcohol and smoking may offer temporary relaxation, but their long-term impact on heart health can be life-threatening. By making small but meaningful changes, you can protect your heart, improve your overall well-being, and add years to your life.

If you’ve been experiencing symptoms like chest pain after drinking alcohol, shortness of breath, or irregular heartbeats, don’t ignore them. Take control of your health today—your future self will thank you!

A Healthy Heart With Atrius Cardiac Care

Your heart health matters. If you’ve experienced symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, or irregular heartbeat, don’t wait—schedule a consultation at Atrius Cardiac Centre today. Our team of expert cardiologists is here to guide you toward better heart health. Take control of your well-being—book your appointment now!