Cardiologia Croatica. 2024;19(9-10)

Mirjam Franciska Turáni, Gábor Zoltán Duray, Judit Papp

Ethyl-alcohol influences the cardiovascular system through its direct cardiotoxic effect, interferes with the autonomic nervous system and facilitates the development of various comorbidities. Chronic consumption increases the development of alcoholic cardiomyopathy. Even a small amount of acute alcohol consumption promotes atrial fibrillaton significantly. Large amount of alcohol intake in a short period of time can cause „Holiday Heart Syndrome”. Alcohol consumption and ventricular arrhythmias did not correlate significantly, but a link was observed between ventricular arrhythmias and spirit drinking. In conclusion, only complete abstinence should be considered safe regarding arrhythmias.

Mislav Vrsalović, Tonći Batinić, Nikola Kos

Peripheral arterial disease is a common cardiovascular disease associated with an increased risk of major adverse cardiovascular events and major adverse limb events. Patients can be asymptomatic, and symptomatic patients can present with intermittent claudication or critical limb ischemia. A holistic multidisciplinary approach that includes timely diagnosis, treatment, monitoring and prevention is necessary. The initial diagnostic tool is the ankle-brachial index. Treatment includes lifestyle and habits modification, pharmacological and endovascular and/or surgical treatment.

Attila Kardos

Sudden cardiac death during sexual activity is a rare event, but we are witnessing demographic changes in the risk groups. Recent studies have highlighted that cardiac events during sexual activity are affecting younger people, with a higher proportion of female deaths than previously described. Dialogue is needed between cardiovascular staff and patients to provide the necessary education and reassurance about safe sex. This article reviews how sexual activity can lead to an increased risk of cardiac arrhythmias and sudden cardiac arrest in suboptimally treated or under-informed patients. It discusses the possible risks of cardiac arrhythmias and sudden cardiac death induced by sexual intercourse in the most common cardiovascular diseases and also addresses their psychosocial impact. Finally, the literature on the safety of cardiovascular drugs and implantable cardioverter defibrillators is reviewed. Overall, sexual activity is safe for most heart patients, and proper education can ensure a reassuring sex life for the patient and partner even with higher risk cardiovascular disease. It cannot be overemphasized that the patient should be adequately informed about the factors that can cause arrhythmias and sudden cardiac arrest during sexual activity. Health care providers should, where possible, talk to all patients and ensure that sexual partners, female patients and members of the LGBTQIA+ community have the same access to counselling tailored to their individual needs.