Thanksgiving Indulgences can Lead to Emergency Room Visits

Thanksgiving Indulgences can Lead to Emergency Room Visits

Thanksgiving is a time for great food and family gatherings, but it can also be a nightmare if you end up in the emergency room. Dr. Christopher Langan, a board-certified emergency room physician and Chief Medical Officer of Houston-based SignatureCare Emergency Center, warns that Texas emergency rooms see a surge in visitors during the Thanksgiving holidays due to over-indulgence and other factors.

Overindulgence and Upset Stomach

Dr. Langan highlights that the average American consumes around 2,000 calories on a regular day, but this number jumps to 3,000-4,000 on Thanksgiving Day. This overindulgence can lead to upset stomach and emergency room visits. Individuals with gallbladder disease may experience heightened pain due to the increased fat consumption.

High Sodium and Heart Health

Thanksgiving meals often feature high-sodium dishes, which can pose risks for individuals with heart issues. Excessive sodium intake can contribute to heart failure, which often manifests on Thanksgiving or the following day. Dr. Langan emphasizes the importance of being mindful of sodium intake even during festive occasions.

“Holiday Heart” and Alcohol Consumption

Another prevalent issue during Thanksgiving is “Holiday Heart,” an irregular heart rhythm caused by excessive alcohol consumption. While it can occur anytime, Dr. Langan notes that emergency rooms witness an increase in these cases around Thanksgiving. Moderation in alcohol intake is crucial for overall well-being and preventing unnecessary emergency room visits.

Kitchen-Related Injuries

Meal preparation during Thanksgiving often involves an increased likelihood of lacerations and burns. Grease burns from deep-frying turkeys and cuts from knives and other sharp objects in the kitchen are common occurrences. Dr. Langan advises families to exercise caution while cooking to minimize the risk of injuries.

Food Safety and Prevention

Dr. Langan underscores the importance of avoiding cross-contamination of cooked and uncooked foods to prevent food poisoning. This can result in unscheduled emergency room visits and could be easily prevented by following proper food safety practices.

About SignatureCare Emergency Center

SignatureCare Emergency Center is based in Houston, Texas, and operates nine 24-hour emergency centers across the state. These facilities provide high-quality emergency care for various medical emergencies, including those related to Thanksgiving festivities. SignatureCare Emergency Center’s experienced physicians and staff are equipped to handle a wide range of health concerns, ensuring timely and efficient medical attention.