ALCOHOL AND THE HEART
Dr. Candice Silversides & Jeanine Harrison ACNP
Many adult patients with congenital heart disease wonder if they are able to drink alcohol. In many cases, consumption of small amounts of alcohol is not a problem. In fact, in patients without congenital heart disease, small amounts of daily alcohol consumption may help to decrease the risk of heart attacks (blocked arteries). Drinking large amounts of alcohol, or more aggressive drinking known as “binge” drinking, is generally not a good idea for anyone. Unfortunately, as many as 30% of people, age 24-26, drink more than the recommended monthly amount of alcohol (1).
There are times when even small amounts of alcohol are not safe for patients with heart disease. For instance, alcohol can lead to high blood pressure and this can be a problem for people with underlying heart conditions. In some people who are prone to heart rhythm problems (arrhythmias), alcohol can trigger the arrhythmia. In those cases, even small amounts of alcohol need to be avoided. In some cases, heavy drinking can cause very dangerous heart rhythms. Large amounts of alcohol can be toxic to the heart muscle and can results in weakening of the heart muscle and heart failure. Some heart conditions can also affect the liver and for patients with problems their liver function, alcohol may further damage the liver.
Finally, in any person on cardiac medications, alcohol can interact with the medications making them less effective or, possibly, create a reaction that is dangerous.
The risks of alcohol depend on your particular heart condition and on the amount and/or frequency of alcohol consumption. The cardiologists at your clinic will be able to discuss these issues with you and how it affects your heart condition. It is a good idea to have a talk with your cardiologist about your personal situation
1. http://www.camh.net/About_Addiction_Mental_Health/Drug_and_Addiction_Information/low_risk_drinking04.pdf
2. http://www.drugwise-droguesoisfute.hc-sc.gc.ca/facts-faits/alcostats_e.asp
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