With the Christmas cheer in the air, the trees are lit and the eggnog is ready for the season of joy, celebration, and togetherness. These traditions bring warmth to the winter months. However, among all these festivities, there lie some hidden health hazards that people mostly overlook. For asthma patients or allergy patients, this wonderful time of the year also becomes a sneezing and wheezing season along with an unexpected medical emergency.

From moldy Christmas trees to dusty decorations and allergen-laden foods, several seemingly harmless traditions can trigger serious health issues. Stress from holiday preparations and certain popular gifts can further complicate matters, turning a joyful time into a challenging one. Understanding these risks is key to ensuring a safer and healthier holiday season for everyone.

Here's a list of Christmas hazards that occur on or around the holiday season:

1. Christmas Tree Syndrome

Christmas trees are, in fact, the classic representation of holiday decorations; however, they bring some unpredictable health issues. Real trees generally harbor mould spores, which love to grow well indoors in warm conditions. Inhaling these spores can create an array of symptoms ranging from coughing and wheezing to nasal congestion and in people with asthma and allergy.

Not all artificial trees are risk-free, either. Dust and mould collected during storage can become airborne when unpacking the tree, thereby aggravating asthma or allergic reactions. In fact, a survey conducted by Asthma + Lung UK revealed that 34% of asthma sufferers cited mould and fungi as the primary trigger, and 55% said dust was one.

Tips to Reduce Risk

• Wash live trees with a garden hose before bringing them inside.
• Store artificial trees in airtight containers to reduce dust and mould accumulation.
• Consider allergy-friendly options, such as fiber-optic trees.

2. Holiday Foods and Beverages

The holiday menu is a delight, but it can hide several allergens and irritants. For example, processed meats, including sausages, mulled wine, and gravy, contain sulphites and histamines, which are asthma-triggers in sensitive patients.

A survey showed that 11% of women and 6% of men with asthma had triggers from food. Other offenders are dried fruits, pickled foods, and some beverages such as fruit juices and sodas, which may be high in sulphites.

Tips to Reduce Risk

• Read ingredient labels for sulphites and other known allergens.
• Choose fresh, unprocessed foods as much as possible.
• Limit intake of foods and beverages that have triggered reactions in the past.

3. Dusty Decorations

Holiday decorations stored in attics or basements can harbor dust mites, mould, and other allergens. When these decorations are unpacked and displayed, they can release particles into the air, worsening symptoms for individuals with asthma or respiratory sensitivities.

Warm indoor temperatures during the cold winter months can make for optimal dust mite breeding. Coupled with all the stress of the season, irritation from these allergens might trigger coughing, wheezing, and worse, severe asthma attacks.

Tips to Reduce Risk

• Spray decorations with a damp cloth before putting them up.
• Keep decorations in sealed plastic containers and not in cardboard boxes.
• Clean and dust throughout the holiday season.

4. Holiday Stress

The holiday season may be merry, but it is also overwhelming. Shopped-for pressure, cooks needed to feed the multitudes, and entertainers will bring about stress, a common trigger of asthma in 36% of people, says Asthma + Lung UK.

Increased stress can lead to hyperventilation, tightening of the airways, and panic, all of which exacerbate asthma symptoms. The emotional toll of family disputes and the chaos of crowded shopping centers can add to the strain, making it crucial to prioritize self-care.

Tips to Reduce Risk

• Plan holiday tasks ahead of time to avoid last-minute stress.
• Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or meditation.
• Assign tasks to members of the family to divide up the workload.

5. Gifts

Many Christmas favorites such as scented candles, perfumes, and aerosol sprays release irritants and pollutants that trigger or exacerbate asthma. When burning, candles emit particulate matter, which can worsen conditions for respiratory diseases. Perfumes and aerosols are the most common triggers in that 40% of patients who suffer from asthma are exposed to these irritants.

Even simple gift items, such as clothes, pose potential danger in the sense that they can harbor animal dander acquired at the packing or storage process. For those allergic to these danders, it may induce some type of allergic response.

Tips to Reduce Risk

• Opt for non-scented candles and other fragrance-free gifts.
• Inform gift providers of these allergies and suggest less allergenic choices.
• Open the windows, and make sure air flows indoors when using scented candles, sprays, etc.

How to Stay Healthy This Holiday Season?

It's a time to get merry and bright, yet a little reminder of health-related dangers from festive traditions: Keep your body hydrated, kick off seasonal germs-these few proactive steps can help one make the most of frosty months. Here's to a guide on staying healthy and warm, stress-free while the winter is here.

1. Stay Hydrated

While hot cocoa and cider do feel like the best beverage companions for winter, remember that water should always be your preferred drink. Hydration is important during each season, and winter does not make an exception. Keep consuming at least 8 cups of water daily to keep your immune system in top shape. This good habit is drinking one glass of water before eating and between meals. This simple step can keep you refreshed, hydrated, and ready to ward off winter bugs.

2. Manage Stress

The holiday season brings along packed schedules and high expectations, which can lead to unnecessary stress. Focus instead on meaningful traditions that bring you joy. Spend quality time with loved ones, indulge in holiday cheer, and remember to relax. Simplifying your plans and prioritizing self-care may help you enjoy a stress-free winter.

3. Sleep is a must

Sleep is your body’s natural defense against seasonal illnesses. Despite the excitement of celebrations and travel, try to stick to a consistent sleep schedule. Limit caffeine, alcohol, and heavy meals before bedtime to ensure restful sleep. Avoid daytime naps and create a calm bedtime routine to recharge your body and mind each night.

4. Dress Warmly and Smartly

Start by dressing sensibly. Instead of one big bulky garment, wear layers of multiple loose, warm garments as this will help hold on to heat better and provides space for adjustment in case temperatures need to be changed. Then, do not forget important basic items such as a hat with ear coverage, mitts, and insulated socks. It is essential to replace drenched clothing as quickly as possible to prevent chills and frostbite.

5. Time under extreme cold

Cold weather can cause serious health issues like frostbite and hypothermia. Be aware of the weather forecast and dress accordingly when venturing out. Be alert to warning signs such as red or pale skin, numbness, or intense shivering. If hypothermia symptoms such as slurred speech or loss of coordination are experienced, call for emergency assistance. When traveling, always carry an emergency kit and extra warm clothing for added safety.

6. Exercise Active during the winter season

Winter is really cool and one feels like taking up some workouts. Still, exercising daily is quite significant to stay physically and mentally sound. Some indoor workouts could be taken when the weather really becomes low. Those exercising outside can dress according to their workout schedule to prevent overheating by dressing light and having enough breathable clothes. Exercising in the winter helps a person's energy and boost the immunity level.

7. Germ Control

Common, preventable winter illnesses include the common cold and flu. The most effective means to halt the transmission of germs is hand washing in proper frequency with thorough rubbing of surfaces for at least 20 seconds before rinsing off. Ensure that your immunizations regarding flu and COVID-19 are current as possible to lower your chance of getting infected.

Combine these habits with good hygiene practices, and you’ll be well-prepared to enjoy all the wonders of the season while keeping winter woes at bay.

“Health is Wealth” is something we all teach our kids so that they learn to put themselves first, however many times they fail to learn it as we ourselves do not follow it.

While we are constantly urged to take care of our health above anything else, it is a message not many of us take seriously. Many people in the UK are putting their health on the back burner, claiming they're simply too busy.

A recent study reveals that one in five Brits are neglecting their own well-being, often skipping important appointments like eye exams, dental visits, and doctor's check-ups. In fact, three-quarters of people have either missed or postponed a health appointment because their schedules were too packed.

Why Are We So Busy?

The main culprits for these missed appointments seem to be work demands and childcare responsibilities. On top of that, the sheer stress of arranging the appointments themselves is another big reason adults avoid necessary blood tests or eye exams. This research, commissioned by Specsavers for Glaucoma Awareness Week, aims to shed light on glaucoma, often called the "silent thief of sight."

What is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma refers to a group of eye diseases that can lead to vision loss and even blindness. It does this by harming your optic nerve, which is like a cable at the back of your eye that sends images to your brain.

The tricky part about glaucoma is that its symptoms often begin so slowly you might not even notice them. This is why it's often called the "silent thief of sight." The only way to truly find out if you have it is by getting a thorough eye exam where your pupils are dilated.

While there's no cure for glaucoma, catching it early and starting treatment can often stop the damage and help protect your vision from getting worse.

Don't Wait for Symptoms

A spokesperson highlighted that it's easy to push check-ups aside when you feel fine and life is hectic. However, conditions like glaucoma can develop slowly without any noticeable symptoms. By the time you notice an issue, "irreversible damage" might have already occurred. That's why it's crucial not to wait for symptoms to appear; regular check-ups can help protect your long-term health.

Initially, glaucoma usually has no noticeable symptoms. This is a big reason why about half of the people who have it don't even know it.

Over time, you might slowly start to lose your vision. This often begins with your side (peripheral) vision, especially the part closest to your nose. Because this happens so gradually, many people don't realize their vision is changing at first. As the disease worsens without treatment, you may begin to notice significant blind spots and, eventually, it can lead to complete blindness.

Simple Tasks Often Overlooked

The study also found that busy adults often neglect other simple health tasks due to lack of time. These include getting a full night's sleep or drinking enough water. A significant number of people (one-fifth) admitted they've been so focused on work that they haven't taken proper screen breaks or even moved from their seats for long periods.

Among those who don't prioritize their own health, 28% put their children's needs first, while 19% prioritize housework. Sadly, over a third confessed that only a health scare or a clear symptom would finally push them to book a delayed check-up. Many understand the need for appointments but find them easy to forget.

Making Health a Priority

Many Brits believe that easier booking systems (four in ten) or simply more time in their day (a third) would help them focus more on their health. Specsavers emphasized that even though schedules are busy, ignoring eye care isn't an option. A quick eye check every couple of years can protect you from serious long-term problems. Your vision is incredibly valuable and deserves your attention.

Sleep is one of the most important pillars of health. How much you sleep, what times as well as how well you sleep are things that heavily affect your body and lifestyle. Many people think sleep is something they can always recover from. Stayed up too late but still going to work early in the morning? Or you slept on time but woke up due to some issue, making you unable to sleep the rest of the night. These are issues we have all faced, and we figure that we’ll sleep when our day ends.

However, this is not an issue to be taken lightly, as researchers found that lack of sleep can essentially shorten your lifespan.

A 2025 study published in Springer Nature Link have found a clear link between how long you sleep and your risk of dying. They say there's a "golden window" of two hours that most people should aim for to stay healthy and avoid bad consequences. To figure this out, scientists looked at almost 80 past studies, which included information from over two million people, giving them a lot of data to understand sleep patterns better.

Dangers of Too Much (or Too Little) Sleep

The research shows risks for both sleeping too little and sleeping too much. If you regularly sleep for more than nine hours each night, you could face a 34% higher risk of death. On the other hand, those who sleep for less than seven hours faced a 14% increased risk of dying. This ideal sleep range matches what health groups like the NHS suggest for most healthy adults, though it's noted that everyone's needs can be a bit different based on things like age.

Why Long Sleep Might Be a Warning Sign

The study's authors, from a university in Hungary, think that sleeping too much might actually be a sign of hidden health problems. For example, if someone has a heart issue that hasn't been found yet, it could make them feel extra tired, causing them to sleep more. This means the higher risk isn't just from the sleep itself, but possibly from an underlying sickness. Interestingly, women who slept over nine hours had an even higher risk – 41% greater – compared to women who got a normal amount of sleep.

Perfect Amount: 7 to 8 Hours

After looking at all that information from millions of people, the research strongly points to sleeping between seven and eight hours as the best amount for staying healthy. This time seems to be just right for your body and mind to rest and work well. However, the researchers did notice that different studies on long sleep times sometimes showed slightly different results. This means we might need more research to fully understand all the ways sleeping too much can affect our health and specific causes of death.

Why Good Sleep Matters for Everything

A good night's sleep is absolutely essential and does much more than just make you feel rested. It helps your mental health, gives you enough physical energy for your day, and keeps your brain sharp so you can think and focus clearly. Health experts also warn that ongoing sleep problems can negatively affect your relationships, social life, and even simple daily tasks. These continuous issues can make you feel constantly tired, lead to eating more, and make you less productive at work or school.

Can You Recover Lost Sleep?

Recovering lost sleep is not as simple as you may think it is. The more hours you lose, the more you accumulate sleep debt. Sleep debt, according to the Sleep Foundation, is the difference between the amount of sleep you need and how much you are actually getting.

While short naps (10-20 minutes) can refresh you, and sleeping in on weekends might feel good, they often aren't enough for true recovery. Research shows it can take four days to bounce back from just one hour of lost sleep, and even longer to fully erase "sleep debt" and restore your body's normal function. Your brain needs more than a weekend to recover fully from ongoing sleep restriction.

Celebrities go through extreme amounts of scrutiny, constantly living under pressure and having to stomach all their personal feelings in order to continue their work. Olivia Munn is no stranger to this feeling. The American actress recently opened up about struggling with an uncommon condition that was triggered due to a paparazzi shot.

She revealed she lives with trichotillomania, a lesser-known mental health condition. This news comes after her public battle with breast cancer, highlighting her continued openness about her health journey.

“I did the horrible thing, which was to read the comments... And they were like ‘I think she set this up!’” In a recent episode of ‘Armchair expert’ podcast, Munn shared that her trichotillomania began after an incident with paparazzi between 2009 and 2010 when she was dating Chris Pine. The insensitive comments turned out to be a trigger for her, and she explained it was the beginning of her condition.

What is Trichotillomania?

Trichotillomania, also called trich or TTM, is a condition where people have strong, repeated, and uncontrollable urges to pull out their hair. This hair can come from their scalp, eyebrows, or other body parts. Munn explained that the urge to pull can be quite intense and it is a sensation that feels like “oh this eyelash feels like its going to come out, even though it is not”. Once you pull it, she details, there is a small second of pain, then satisfaction followed up with immediate regret.

The National Health Services UK explains that people with trichotillomania often feel a certain sensation. They feel a lot of tension building up until they pull, and once they do, they often feel a sense of relief. Sometimes, hair pulling happens when someone is stressed, but it can also happen without them even thinking about it. While most people pull hair from their head, some also pull from their:

• Eyebrows
• Eyelashes
• Genital area
• Beard or mustache

Bald patches may appear unusually shaped and affect one side of the head more than the other. Trich can lead to feelings of shame and low self-esteem, often causing individuals to try and conceal their condition.

What Causes Trichotillomania?

The exact causes of trichotillomania are not entirely clear, but potential factors include:

Coping mechanism

For some, pulling hair might be a way to deal with strong emotions like stress or anxiety. It could be a kind of self-soothing behavior.

Chemical imbalance

There might be differences in the brain's chemicals that affect how a person controls urges or handles rewards, making it harder to stop pulling hair.

Hormonal changes

Changes in hormone levels, especially during puberty when the condition often starts, could also be a factor.

Genetics

If someone in your family has trichotillomania, you might be more likely to develop it too, suggesting that genes could play a part.

Can Trichotillomania Be Treated?

The main way to treat trichotillomania is through a therapy called habit reversal training, which is a type of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). This therapy focuses on helping you replace the urge to pull your hair with something harmless. It typically involves keeping a diary to track when and where you pull your hair, which helps you identify and understand your triggers – the specific situations or feelings that make you want to pull.

Once you know your triggers, you can work on replacing the hair-pulling action with a different, less harmful behavior, like squeezing a stress ball or making a fist. Support from loved ones is also a key part of this process, providing encouragement as you work to change the habit. Other self help tips according to NHS are,

• Squeeze a stress ball or similar object.
• Form a fist and tighten arm muscles.
• Use a fidget toy.
• Wear a bandana or a tight-fitting hat like a beanie.
• Take a soothing bath to reduce stress or anxiety.
• Practice deep breathing until the urge subsides.
• Exercise regularly.
• Apply plasters to fingertips.
• Cut hair short.