Keep Safe and Avoid These Health Risks During the Holidays

The holiday season is a time for celebration and parties left and right with families and friends. However, amid all the eating, drinking, exchanging gifts, as well as foregoing proper sleep, are some health risks that could see family members going for an unexpected trip to the hospital.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) highlights the need for caution and care during the holidays because most of the health risks that can crop up during this season are largely preventable. CPSC Chair Alexander Hoehn-Saric said in a statement that everyone should take "steps to keep holiday festivities safer."  

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Here are five health risks that should be avoided during the holidays:

1. Food poisoning

Be careful with storing, preparing and cooking food for the holidays. Since it's easy to be swept in the rush, basic kitchen protocols might not be observed so you have the presence of mind if you're in charge of the kitchen.

If you're having poultry or meat this Christmas, make sure that they have been stored in the proper temperature. Bake, sear or heat the meat thoroughly before serving these to family members. Wash any fruits and vegetables before adding as ingredients or putting these on the dining table.

If there are leftovers, store these in the refrigerator after two hours of eating to prevent bacteria from multiplying. According to Food Safety News, store the leftovers in small and shallow containers, as opposed to large containers, as these will help cool the food more quickly, protecting it immediately from bacteria formation. Leftovers must also be consumed within four days if it's not frozen.

2. Heart attacks

Experts in Sweden found out in a study that heart attack risks are up by 40 percent between December 25 to 27. The culprit is not just the food, which is likely loaded in salt or cream but also the unusual activities families do during the holidays. According to the American Heart Association, those at risk, especially people of a certain age, should be aware of their limits when it comes to food. They must also avoid putting stress on their body with too many activities or parties and not enough sleep and rest.

Never ignore the symptoms of an illness just because the family is having a fun holiday. If you're experiencing shortness of breath, chest pains, or heart palpitations, slow down, observe your body's signals and then get prompt medical attention if the symptoms won't go away.

3. Choking or other toy-related accidents

Per the CPSC, more than 150,000 toy-related accidents were reported at various emergency departments in the U.S. during Christmas 2020. The incidents involved small kids who choked on toy parts or accidentally swallowed a battery. Older kids were also injured for use of scooters, bikes or hoverboards.

Ideally, the older children should be oriented and guided on wearing safety gear if they are using these toys. Gift-givers should also be wary of the toys they give to younger kids and follow the age guidelines that are usually found on the labels. Dr. Greg Newman of Texas said that those who plan to give toys should also consider if there are younger kids in the household who could be around the toys and accidentally swallow something without anyone noticing it.

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