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Post by larrynz on Dec 13, 2007 20:45:53 GMT -5
Never mind Christmas beer… what about Christmas asthma ? jeudi 13 décembre 2007 Destination Santé It seems that asthmatics and those suffering from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease are at increased risk of being hospitalised during the festive season. This is the finding of a Canadian study which points the finger firmly at family gatherings which provide an ideal opportunity for viruses to circulate and be transmitted. As we all know, the winter months bring with them colds and flu. And, as we also know, these quite commonplace infections can cause further deterioration in the pulmonary function of those affected by respiratory disorders … with the resulting risk of decompensation and hospitalisation. But according to Professor Neil W. Johnston of the Firestone Institute in Canada, the risk is greater still around Christmas time. Among patients treated for respiratory conditions, use of the emergency services reaches an unusual peak during the Christmas holidays, he points out. His assertion relies on an in-depth study of annual hospitalisation curves for asthma and COPD in England, Scotland, New Zealand and Sweden. Among adults and particularly among the elderly, the risk of hospitalisation due to COPD increases from  % to 51% during the Christmas holiday. And among asthmatics it rises from 18% to 62%, the author states. It is difficult to avoid close contact at family gatherings but you can still try to be careful. Make sure your prescriptions are up to date and always keep your treatment close at hand in case of an attack. |Destination santé |
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Post by stargazer on Dec 13, 2007 20:57:46 GMT -5
Pretty scary numbers! None of our kids will be around for Christmas this year so it will be very quiet. If we go anywhere and someone is not well we most likely will cut the visit short.
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Post by maryaz on Dec 13, 2007 22:17:18 GMT -5
I wonder how much the colder weather and the anxiety or depression of the holiday contributes also to the hospitalization. Could be a combination. Also that rushing mode.
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Post by larrynz on Dec 14, 2007 0:53:32 GMT -5
Love that picture Mary.
We don't have the same problem, like today, its 82°, so we are not shut in doors close to everybody, Christmas day is often outside with the barbecue, the kids have outdoor toys and go to the beach.
Some years the weather is perverse and we have a wet cold Christmas, but not as cold as yours. ;D
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Post by maryaz on Dec 14, 2007 1:17:51 GMT -5
Larry, I like this picture real well. It is a soft and pretty look. You see, I never get snow. Maybe once every 12 years just tiny bit. I am in Arizona and in the Valley of the Sun (Phoenix) and it doesn't snow here.
Couple hours or less out of town can find snow. We are in mid 60's now because we had rain for week. That is rare. I think it is healthy to live where the season's change more.
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Post by LindaNY on Dec 14, 2007 17:17:52 GMT -5
That is very interesting Larry.
It stands to reason that during cold and flu season, many of us are spending more time indoors with groups of people.
We not only celebrate our Holidays, but we spread our germs and viruses.
Stringent use of infection control procedures is a MUST.
Frequent hand washing, antibacterial wipes, gels and surgical masks are a good idea...As is staying home if you are sick. You don't want to spread your bugs to others.
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Post by Deleted on Dec 29, 2007 18:46:01 GMT -5
what is Christmas Bear  |
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Post by LindaNY on Dec 29, 2007 18:51:04 GMT -5
Christmas beer refers to drinking a bit too much over the Christmas holiday.  |
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Post by Deleted on Dec 31, 2007 9:05:34 GMT -5
ok stupid me
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% to 51% during the Christmas holiday. And among asthmatics it rises from 18% to 62%, the author states. It is difficult to avoid close contact at family gatherings but you can still try to be careful. Make sure your prescriptions are up to date and always keep your treatment close at hand in case of an attack.
