The NHS has issued an urgent A&E warning over Christmas dinner as the roast we look forward to most all year may just land someone in hospital. When serving one irreplaceable element of the feast, it’s important to take care or risk cutting the festivities short.
A top health hazard is a much-loved ingredient that’s poured over potatoes to moisten them up. NHS Greater Glasgow and Clydet (NHSGGC) has revealed that hot gravy is a top cause of avoidable injuries that disrupt celebrations, the Daily Record reported.
They receive several people with burns each year. Merrymakers are urged to take care when serving gravy and consider letting it cool first.
Other hazards include suffering cuts from box cutters and craft knives, falling from ladders when decorating the tree, and digestive issues.
To manage acid reflux at Christmas dinner, eat smaller portions earlier in the day, avoid known triggers (fatty foods, spice, tomato, citrus, alcohol), wear loose clothing, stay upright after eating, and don’t lie down for 3-4 hours before bed. It could be wiser to serve the roast closer to lunchtime than dinnertime.
Some conditions that patients present with at A&E can be treated elsewhere, with A&E being for urgent injuries and life-threatening emergencies.
Dr Claire Harrow, deputy medical director for acute services, said: “For minor injuries or illnesses, you should start by trying to treat from home or call NHS 24 on 111 if you’re unsure. They’ll give advice and arrange an appointment if needed, either virtually or in person – no-one wants to spend Christmas Day in a waiting room.”
While parents and grandparents are busy enjoying their day of day-drinking, it’s important to still keep an eye on the children.
Button batteries and water beads are sometimes swallowed, and hair straighteners and hot hobs can cause painful burns. Children might also swallow laundry pods and other cleaning products believing they are sweets.
Jenna Hill, major trauma co-ordinator at the Royal Hospital for Children, Glasgow, urged parents to take care. She recommended buying children a helmet you are gifting them a bicycle or scooter.
She said: “Our campaign alongside Police Scotland recently highlighted the dangers of (motorised) eScooters and eBikes, and the risk of serious injury is real and rising. It’s important that people remember that eScooters are illegal to use in public spaces and it is illegal for under-14s to ride on eBikes in Scotland.”
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