Why Do People End Up in the ER During the Holiday Season?
The holiday season is meant to be the happiest time of the year. However, it’s also one of the busiest times for emergency rooms with 55.5% of all annual ER visits occurring on holidays.
At Prestige ER, we see a significant increase in visits during the holidays, and while we’re here to provide top-notch care, we’d rather help you avoid a trip to the ER altogether.
If you are wondering why so many people end up in the ER this time of year, these are the top reasons.
Cold, Flu, and Other Respiratory Viruses
The holiday season coincides with peak flu season. Crowded gatherings, travel, and cold weather can increase exposure to respiratory viruses like the flu, RSV, and COVID-19.
Tips to Avoid:
- Ask your doctor about the potential benefits and risks of flu and COVID-19 vaccines.
- Wash your hands frequently and avoid touching your face.
- Stay home if you’re feeling unwell.
- Avoid being around people who are sick when possible.
Holiday Decorating-Related Injuries
Christmas dinner is a staple of the Holiday Season but preparing all that delicious food can put your favorite chef in harm’s way. Every time we work with sharp knives, we risk cutting ourselves, and while most of the time, our injuries are mild enough to be treated at home with a band-aid and some antibiotic ointments, sometimes the cuts are deep enough to warrant a trip to the ER.
If your cut is deep enough as to be able to see bone or cartilage or if you have lacerated a vein on your hand, you will require medical attention, you will most likely need stitches, and in some cases a tetanus shot.
Cooking Accidents
Burns and cuts from holiday meal preparations are common causes of ER visits. Handling sharp knives, hot ovens, pots, and other surfaces can lead to injuries.
Tips to Avoid:
- Always use oven mitts and keep a fire extinguisher nearby.
- Focus on the task at hand to avoid distractions.
- Keep children and pets away from hot surfaces and sharp objects.
- Keep only the necessary number of people in the kitchen to avoid overcrowding, which can lead to accidents.
Car Accidents
Holiday travel often leads to an increase in car accidents. Icy roads, distracted driving, and alcohol consumption are significant factors. According to data, around 42% of traffic accident deaths involve alcohol-impaired drivers.
Tips to Avoid:
- Avoid drinking and driving.
- Check weather conditions before traveling.
- Ensure everyone wears a seatbelt.
Overeating or Drinking Too Much Alcohol
Holiday feasts and festive drinks can lead to digestive issues or alcohol poisoning. Emergency visits for abdominal pain often increase during this time.
Tips to Avoid:
- Eat smaller portions and pace yourself.
- Limit your alcohol intake and stay hydrated.
- Know your limits and don’t overindulge.
Stress and Anxiety
The holidays can be emotionally taxing, leading to stress-related issues such as high blood pressure or anxiety attacks. Blood pressure spikes can lead to serious health risks, including heart attack and stroke. If you have a high blood pressure diagnosis already, it’s vital to keep track of it to avoid complications.
Tips to Avoid:
- Take your blood pressure medication as prescribed
- Practice mindfulness or meditation to help reduce your stress and anxiety levels.
- Take breaks and don’t overcommit.
- Reach out for support if you’re feeling overwhelmed.
Remember, the best gift you can give your loved ones is more time with them, so remember to care for yourself.
Falls
Slips, trips, and falls are common during icy weather or in cluttered homes filled with holiday decorations. Sprains, strains, and broken bone injuries are commonplace this time of year, so be mindful.
Tips to Avoid:
- Wear proper footwear for icy conditions.
- Keep walkways clear of decorations and cords.
- Use handrails when navigating stairs.
Child Injuries in Unfamiliar Surroundings
Children may encounter unfamiliar hazards like open staircases or unsecured cabinets when visiting relatives or staying in hotels.
Playing or exploring unfamiliar places can lead to falls, cuts, and bumps that may be severe enough to warrant a visit to our ER.
Tips to Avoid:
- Childproof the area as much as possible. Work with your host to identify potential hazards and find ways to minimize the risk of injury.
- Always supervise young children closely.
- Bring safety essentials like outlet covers or baby gates and enclosures.
Toy-Related Injuries
Every year, thousands of children and adults end up in the ER due to toy-related injuries, whether from choking hazards or accidents while assembling toys.
Tips to Avoid:
- Check toys for age-appropriate labels. Avoid toys with small removable parts that small children may accidentally swallow.
- Assemble toys away from children in a well-lit environment and use proper tools.
- Dispose of packaging immediately to avoid choking risks.
Pet Bites from Unfamiliar Pets
You may encounter pets not used to new people when you visit friends and family, which may lead to bites or scratches.
Some animal bites may require medical attention, especially if the wound is deep or on a sensitive area like the face, neck, or hands.
Tips to Avoid:
- Teach children to approach pets calmly.
- Provide pets with a safe, quiet space during gatherings.
- Avoid interacting with pets that seem anxious or aggressive.
Prestige ER: Here for You 24/7
Even with the best precautions, accidents and emergencies can happen. At Prestige ER, we’re ready to care for you and your family 24/7 throughout the holiday season.
Our Mesquite and Plano locations have advanced diagnostic technology and the best doctors to handle any emergency.
We wish you a safe and happy holiday season, from our family to yours!
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