12 Doctor's Tips: How to Avoid Health Problems During the Holidays.

According to The Sun: This is the most wonderful time of the year, but be careful... it can leave you sick.

Vanessa Chalmers reveals how to avoid problems and what to do if they arise.

Foodborne Infections

No one wants to spend the festive Christmas days on the toilet due to food poisoning.

NHS doctor, Dr. Tom Jenkins, notes that food is often left standing in fridges longer this time of year, which can become a breeding ground for bacteria.

“Do not leave open or prepared food out at room temperature for more than two hours, or one hour for rice dishes.

“Wash your hands before handling food, especially after contact with animals, using the toilet, or touching garbage.

“Regularly wipe down all food preparation areas, especially after handling raw food.

“If you feel unwell, let someone else do the cooking.”

If you are struck by food poisoning, you should drink plenty of fluids - but not alcohol or coffee - and eat small, bland meals.

It’s time to seek medical help when symptoms last for more than three days, or if you notice blood in your stool, severe abdominal pain, or protracted vomiting.

Being unwell may also lead to a drop or spike in blood sugar levels, so people with diabetes should be especially careful and consult their diabetes team if they are unsure what to do.

Burns

During celebrations, there are many opportunities for burns, especially in the kitchen, as well as in other areas around the home.

Dr. Tom Jenkins says: “Remember the simple precautions that can make a huge difference, not just for your safety, but for the children as well.

“In the kitchen, turn pot handles inward and do not leave food unattended on the stove.

“In the bathroom, you can use a thermometer to ensure that the bath or shower water does not exceed 44 °C, and consider heaters for desperate burns.

“Do not apply a hot grid to the skin or use them together.

If a burn does occur, you should visit the NHS website.

Remove clothing or jewelry near the burn, but never anything that is stuck to the skin.

Dr. Jenkins advises: “Cool the burn under warm water for 20-30 minutes.

“Do not use ice, cold water, or any creams or lotions.

“Wrap the burn in cling film to prevent infection and soothe the pain.”

“Seek help if there is swelling, blisters, white discoloration, any electrical burn, or burns to the face, neck, hands, legs, or genitals.

During the festive season, it’s important to be careful and avoid potential problems. Food can be a source of bacteria that cause illness, so it’s important to handle products properly and maintain hygiene. Burns can also be an unpleasant surprise during celebrations, so it’s important to follow safe advice to prevent burns and know what to do if they occur.