The holidays are supposed to be happy but the stress of the season can put you at greater risk for a life-threatening medical episode. Dr. Vincent Pompili (pom-PELL-ee), a heart doctor in Omaha-Council Bluffs, says the number-one day of the year for heart attacks is December 25th followed by December 26th and January 1st. Pompili says the biggest mistake people make is to ignore a potential problem.

If you think you might be having heart trouble, call 911. Don’t try to drive yourself to the hospital unless there’s no other option, as ambulance personnel can start treatment right away. Plus, they’re trained to revive you if your heart stops.