What is holiday heart syndrome?

Holiday heart syndrome refers specifically to the occurrence of arrhythmias, particularly atrial fibrillation, that develop in individuals who do not have previously existing heart conditions, often as a result of excessive alcohol consumption. This condition is typically observed during holiday seasons or special occasions where binge drinking is more common and can lead to changes in heart rhythm.

The concept behind holiday heart syndrome is that the physiological stress from heavy drinking can precipitate episodes of heart rhythm disturbances, even in otherwise healthy individuals. It highlights how lifestyle choices, particularly binge drinking, can have significant impacts on cardiac health, despite the absence of prior heart disease.

This understanding distinguishes it from other options that either involve pre-existing conditions or imply different triggers for cardiac symptoms, making option B the appropriate choice in the context of this syndrome.