Mercy Health Doctors Warn of Hidden Post-Holiday Heart Risk

Heart Attacks Spike in January

Dr. M.B. Alam, interventional cardiologist at Mercy Health – Springfield Heart House

​While many people view the start of the year as a time for fresh beginnings, health experts caution that January also brings a hidden danger: a spike in heart attacks.

According to research published in Circulation and reported by the American Heart Association, the weeks following the holiday season see a higher-than-average number of cardiac events. Stress, overindulgence, cold weather and delaying medical care in December are all factors that contribute to this so-called “silent surge.” Read the study here.

“January is one of the riskiest months for heart health,” said Dr. M.B. Alam, interventional cardiologist at Mercy Health – Springfield Heart House. “Patients may ignore chest pain, fatigue or shortness of breath because they don’t want to disrupt holiday plans. However, those symptoms can signal a serious, even life-threatening problem.”

Experts note the combination of cold temperatures and strenuous seasonal activities, like shoveling snow, can further strain the heart. Missed medications, poor sleep and heavy food or alcohol consumption during the holidays also play a role.
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Cardiologists recommend paying attention to the following red flags and seeking medical attention immediately:

• Chest discomfort, pressure or pain
• Unexplained shortness of breath
• Dizziness, fainting or extreme fatigue
• Pain radiating to the arm, neck or jaw
  
  

“Heart disease is still the leading cause of death in the U.S., and many cardiac events are preventable,” added Dr. M.B. Alam. “The key is recognizing symptoms early and not waiting until it’s too late.”

When you’re looking for a heart doctor, experience matters. Mercy Health offers some of the best cardiologists across Ohio and right here in Springfield, Urbana & Fairborn; all equipped with the latest technology and utilizing the most up-to-date techniques. For more information about heart health and the cardiology services available at Mercy Health, visit mercy.com.  

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About Mercy Health - Springfield 
Mercy Health – Springfield is part of Bon Secours Mercy Health (BSMH) one of the 20 largest health systems in the United States and the fifth-largest Catholic health system in the country. The ministry’s quality, compassionate care is provided by nearly 60,000 associates serving communities in Florida, Kentucky, Maryland, Ohio, South Carolina and Virginia, as well as in Ireland and the Philippines. BSMH provides care for patients nearly 14 million times annually through its network of more than 1,200 care sites, which includes 47 hospitals. In 2025, BSMH invested more than $500 million in its communities across five states, ensuring that cost is not a barrier to health care for our patients in need. Locally, Mercy Health – Springfield, which includes Springfield Regional Medical Center and Urbana Hospital, has a mission to extend the compassionate ministry of Jesus by improving the health and well-being of our communities and bring good help to those in need, especially people who are poor, dying and underserved. Mercy Health – Springfield is a comprehensive, regional health care system, known for quality, innovation, compassionate service and a caring culture. With two hospitals and numerous physician offices and care locations, Mercy Health ensures easy access to safe, effective, timely and cost-efficient care for every stage of life through a network of hospitals, nursing homes and retirement communities as well as rehabilitation and outreach services. The mission of Bon Secours Mercy Health is to extend the compassionate ministry of Jesus by improving the health and well-being of its communities and bring good help to those in need, especially people who are poor, dying and underserved. Visit mercy.com for additional information.   
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