Now that the holiday season has passed, we’re falling into the deep of winter here in Dallas, although it may not always feel that way. While temperatures drop, trips to the emergency room often rise. In addition to holiday-related health issues, winter comes with its own hazards that often cause people to visit the emergency room. Let’s discuss some of the top reasons for winter ER visits.
Slips and Falls
While ice and snow is uncommon for Dallas, when it occurs many of us are caught off guard. When ice and snow are present, ensure you wear shoes with soles that have traction. Also be mindful of icy patches and “black ice” on asphalt. Slips and falls often cause injuries that require immediate medical care.
Winter Sports Injuries
Cold temperatures can cause extra stress on athletes, especially those who play outdoors. Jesuit’s Lacrosse team plays in the cold winter months of January and February, this can lead to extra stress on muscles and joints. Basketball, football and golf can also lead to injuries due to cold muscles combined with cold temperatures.
Burns and carbon monoxide poisoning
To keep warm and safe energy, many families turn to space heaters to keep their homes warm or gas-powered or kerosene heaters for outdoor activities. Be careful when using space heaters in your home and never leave them unattended. Ensure small children and pets cannot reach the burning elements to reduce the risk of burns. Gas-powered heaters should only be used in well-ventilated areas. Cars should also not be run for long periods of time in your closed garage where carbon monoxide may increase to unhealthy levels.
Influenza
While the number of actual influenza cases each year is relatively small, it can often be deadly. Flu seasons are hard to predict and can be severe, infecting anywhere from 3,000 to 94,000 people per season. Children, the elderly and anyone with a weakened immune system are at higher risk of death from the flu or flu-related complications such as bacterial pneumonia, ear infections, sinus infections, dehydration, and worsening of chronic medical conditions, such as congestive heart failure, asthma, or diabetes.
Keep your friends, family and safe this winter season by being prepared for ice, taking caution when playing winter sports and using heaters of any kind. Always get a flu vaccination to help protect your friends, family and coworkers.
If an emergency arises, Advance ER is here to serve you 24 hours a day. From flu-related symptoms to broken bones from falls or winter sports injuries, our staff is here to serve you.
