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UVA cardiologist Brandy Patterson explains how holiday stress & treats can trigger holiday heart syndrome, an abnormal heart rhythm.

SHARON GREGORY: The holiday season is almost here. It can be very easy to let all that stress get the best of you.

MATT TALHELM: Sure can. UVA's Dr. Brandy Patterson shares some heart-healthy tips in this segment of Straight Talk MD.

KASEY HOTT: Hi, and welcome to Straight Talk MD. I'm here today with Dr. Brandy Patterson, who is a cardiologist at UVA Heart and Vascular Center. Now, the holidays are officially in full swing-- love it. Although this is supposed to be a time for reflection, joy, togetherness, it can also be a very stressful time for a lot of us.

BRANDY PATTERSON, MD: Yeah, you're absolutely right, Kasey. The to-do list, the parties, the shopping-- while it sounds wonderful, it can be overwhelming. All of this stress, not to mention the many indulgences of the holiday season, can really take a toll on your health.

In fact, you may be putting yourself at risk for a serious health condition called holiday heart syndrome. This is an abnormal heart rhythm brought on by a combination of triggers, such as drinking too much alcohol or caffeine, overeating, fatigue, and, of course, stress.

HOTT: And what are some of the signs that you might be experiencing this? Because I think a lot of people want to know, what should I look out for?

PATTERSON: Right. So the most common symptom associated with the holiday heart syndrome is atrial fibrillation, or a racing heart. You may experience palpitations, a feeling of pounding in the chest, racing or skipping heartbeats, shortness of breath-- especially with exertion-- sometimes chest discomfort or dizziness.

HOTT: And what are some of the tips for staying heart-healthy this time of year? Because it's kind of hard, you know. You want to enjoy everything.

PATTERSON: Right. So I'm not suggesting that you opt out of all of the festivities. But what I would like people to do is to take some time for yourselves. I think we all get caught up in getting the best decorations for our home and the best dinners for our families and the best presents out there.

But you know what? In my opinion, the best gift, the greatest gift of all, is health. And so take time for yourself to give you the gift of health. Because not only will you benefit but your family will, too. I want everybody to have a safe, healthy, and happy holiday season.

HOTT: Thank you so much. Thank you for watching. Happy holidays.

PATTERSON: Happy holidays.