Chill, relax this holiday season, revelers advised

JUST “chill” this holiday season and remain healthy or you could end up stressed and a bundle of nerves.

The Philippine College of Physicians Foundation yesterday advised merrymakers to watch out for “holiday stress” brought about by endless shopping in crowded malls, the terrible traffic, and nonstop partying and entertaining.

Dr. Anthony Leachon, PCP Foundation president, cited an informal survey taken in Metro Manila hospitals from 2004 to 2008 that showed a tripling of emergency cases and admissions during the Christmas season.

He warned that stress due to the host of chores and demands spawned by the holiday season could result in deadly ailments, including heart attack and stroke.

“Traffic, crowds and shopping wear down holiday-makers. It’s certainly not a fun way to spend the holidays,” Leachon said.

According to the unofficial survey, a total of 153 heart attack and stroke cases were reported in December 2004; 163 in the same month the following year; 172 in 2006, and 170 each in 2007 and 2008.

Leachon pointed out the figures were way beyond the usual 30 to 50 cases recorded monthly in hospitals in the capital in the first 11 months of the year.

In his Facebook account, Dr. Gerald Belandres gave practical and doable tips to avoid stress during the holidays.

He advised merrymakers to plan their activities and delegate chores or tasks to other members of the family.

When hosting parties, Belandres advised the use of disposable plates and utensils to avoid the taxing chore of washing piles of dirty dishes later. He also advised party givers to prepare only the right amount of food.

“Take a rest when feeling tired and don’t force it if your budget doesn’t allow you to spend on gifts or a feast. Don’t borrow money,” he said.

The Department of Health advised the public to plan their Christmas activities ahead to avoid stress. Revelers should stay away from crowded places as infections and diseases multiply and spread easily in areas with poor ventilation, the DOHsaid.

The health department also advised everyone to get a good night’s sleep during the busiest time of the year to give their mind and body sufficient rest.