Heart Attack Symptoms and the Consequences of Alcohol Consumption

For individuals experiencing angina, consuming alcohol can lead to severe health consequences. Below are some of the most common and dangerous outcomes associated with alcohol use in patients with anginal chest pain:

Increased Risk of Myocardial Infarction

Drinking alcohol can disrupt lipid metabolism, leading to unstable plaque formation in the arteries. This instability increases the risk of plaque rupture and subsequent internal bleeding, which can result in blood clot formation. These clots may block the coronary arteries, ultimately triggering a heart attack.

Coronary Artery Spasms

Even if plaque does not rupture after alcohol consumption, hormonal imbalances may occur. These imbalances can increase the secretion of vasoconstrictive substances, causing blood vessels to constrict and potentially leading to coronary artery spasms. These spasms can reduce blood flow to the heart and increase the risk of heart attack.

Cardiac Arrhythmias and Blood Pressure Fluctuations

Alcohol can heighten myocardial excitability while simultaneously suppressing the function of the sinoatrial node—the heart's natural pacemaker. This imbalance can lead to irregular heartbeats, including premature beats and tachycardia. These arrhythmias can negatively impact blood pressure, reduce blood flow to the heart muscle, and worsen angina symptoms or even trigger a heart attack.

Direct Myocardial Damage

Chronic or even acute alcohol consumption can directly damage heart muscle tissue, weakening the heart's ability to contract effectively. This weakening can result in hypotension (low blood pressure), further compromising cardiovascular function.

Exacerbation of Medication Side Effects

Alcohol can also interfere with the liver's ability to process medications. For patients with angina who are taking statins to manage cholesterol levels, drinking can significantly increase the risk of liver damage. This interaction can worsen overall health outcomes and complicate treatment plans.