Answer:

Consuming large amounts of alcohol, or drinking over an extended period, can trigger acute cardiovascular events like heart attacks, even in individuals with no prior history of heart disease. The risk of a heart attack can significantly increase within an hour of drinking, particularly when consuming alcohol on an empty stomach, while fatigued, sleep-deprived, or under stress.

Alcohol impacts the cardiovascular system through several mechanisms. In the initial hours after consumption, alcohol can abruptly raise blood pressure and heart rate, increasing the heart's demand for oxygen. It can also cause coronary artery spasms, reducing blood flow to the heart, a direct contributor to heart attacks. Alcohol also promotes platelet aggregation and blood clot formation, increasing the risk of blockages. Certain heart rhythm disorders, such as atrial premature beats and paroxysmal atrial fibrillation, can occur after drinking, raising the risk of complications like stroke, heart failure, and death.

Beyond the risk of acute events, frequent alcohol use increases the risk of chronic cardiovascular diseases like high blood pressure, heart failure, sustained arrhythmias, and alcoholic cardiomyopathy. Long-term alcohol dependence directly affects the heart muscle, causing chamber dilation and reduced contractile function, leading to heart failure.

Chest pain after drinking is an early warning sign. This could indicate angina, a temporary circulatory disruption that signals a potential future heart attack risk. Therefore, it is crucial not to disregard symptoms such as chest pain, heart palpitations, shortness of breath, or fatigue after consuming alcohol. Seeking a cardiology consultation is recommended for accurate assessment, detection of potential heart conditions, and timely intervention. Men over 40 with risk factors like smoking, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, or a sedentary lifestyle are at higher risk of cardiovascular events after alcohol consumption.

Heart attacks can occur even in younger individuals who consume excessive alcohol. According to the World Heart Federation (WHF), there is no completely safe level of alcohol consumption for cardiovascular health. Even small amounts can cause arrhythmias or vascular damage in susceptible individuals.

To prevent cardiovascular events, individuals should adopt a healthy lifestyle, maintain a balanced diet, manage a healthy weight, and control blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels. Regular physical activity, at least 150 minutes per week, and stress reduction are also recommended.

Dr. Duong Thi Thao

Cardiology Department

Tam Anh General Hospital, Hanoi