The parties! The presents! The pressure! While the coming weeks are traditionally filled with much merriment, they can also play havoc with our health. As daily routines, diets and sleep patterns switch up, it’s essential that we make an effort to protect our wellbeing.

“Extensive travel overseas, stress and fatigue are all contributors to the increased incidence of illness over the festive period due to all of the planning, shopping, financial pressure, and social commitments,” explains Dr. Paveena Gandhi from International Medical Clinic (imc-healthcare.com). “Each of these factors combined can weaken the immune system, making it common to feel unwell.”

Moreover, the tendency to indulge in richer foods and increased alcohol consumption during the holidays can negatively impact health. “A diet high in sweets and alcohol can impair the immune system, rendering the body more susceptible to illness,” she says.

But you don’t need to steer clear of the Lindt Lindor Christmas Gift Box altogether. “Moderation is key and remember that rest is the key to recovery. In between that, have fun!” Dr. Gandhi says. Read on for more of her advice for protecting your health as we head towards the end of the year.

Christmas Tree Syndrome refers to allergic reactions and respiratory issues triggered by real Christmas trees. Sneezing, wheezing, coughing, a stuffy nose, runny or itchy eyes, and difficulty breathing are all symptoms. Bah, humbug!
The cause: Dust, residual pollens, natural oils, saps, and other allergens that thrive on Christmas trees like firs, pines, and spruces. These allergens can mask mould that flourishes in warmer indoor environments like Singapore, and triggers negative reactions.
The prevention: Shake or hose down your tree outside to remove debris before bringing it indoors. Once up and looking pretty, limit its time inside to reduce triggers.
The cure: Consider an artificial tree which should also be cleaned before use. If you must go au naturel, use an air purifier and regularly vacuum and dust the area. Antihistamines, nasal sprays, or other allergy medications can help.
Get serious: If the irritation is too much to conduct everyday life as usual, it may be sensible to make a fake tree your festive friend.

A cough is not just for Christmas, but why does it seem particularly bad around the party season? Its frequency or severity might increase due to specific conditions or behaviours associated with this time of year.
The cause: Viral infections caused by “winter weather” can lead to ongoing coughing as the body clears mucus. Asthma and chronic bronchitis can also be a culprit, as can allergies and irritants caused by tobacco smoke or fumes from cooking (so, a great reason to keep out of the kitchen!).
The prevention: Invest in a humidifier. Adding moisture to the air can help to ease throat irritation.
The cure: Drink plenty of fluids to thin mucus and soothe your throat. Reduce exposure to smoke, strong fragrances and allergens.
Get serious: If a cough persists for more than a few weeks, worsens, or is accompanied by other symptoms like weight loss, night sweats, high fever, significant chest pain, difficulty breathing or coughing with blood stains, it’s imperative that you seek medical advice for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

The common cold can be the gift that keeps on giving over the holidays. It presents as a viral infection of the upper respiratory tract, primarily affecting your nose and throat.
The cause: The virus spreads the most through airborne droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. Also beware of close contact such as shaking hands, and indirect contact like touching contaminated surfaces like doorknobs, phones or handrails.
The prevention: Practice frequent handwashing, avoid contact with infected individuals, cover your mouth when unwell, and consider avoiding the mistletoe.
The cure: There’s no cure but symptoms usually resolve within 7-10 days. Rest, stay hydrated, take over-the-counter cold medications, consume warm fluids like tea or soup, and try a nasal spray.
Get serious: If symptoms are severe and you have a fever above 38.5°C (101.3°F) or a fever lasting more than three days, see your GP.

Too much alcohol in too little time? This serious condition can lead to health complications, including coma, brain damage, and even death if not treated promptly.
The cause: Alcohol poisoning is typically caused by binge drinking – the body can only metabolise one standard drink per hour. Drinking more encourages alcohol to accumulate in the blood which can lead to intoxication or poisoning.
The prevention: Avoid drinking large quantities quickly (more than five alcoholic drinks for men and four drinks for women on a single occasion). Don’t drink on an empty stomach or mix alcohol with other prescription drugs.
The cure: Stay hydrated, pace yourself and be aware of the signs of poisoning so you can get help fast if necessary.
Get serious: If someone is unconscious, place them on their side to prevent choking. Don’t leave them alone, and monitor their breathing and alertness. Don’t try to “sober them up” – call emergency services right away.

The flu, or influenza, is a contagious viral infection that primarily affects the nose, throat, and lungs. It’s generally more severe than the common cold and can lead to serious complications.
The cause: The flu spreads in similar ways to the common cold. The typical incubation period is one to four days.
The prevention: Get the flu shot which is updated yearly. Practice good hygiene and restrict close interactions with infected individuals.
The cure: If you get sick with the flu, influenza antiviral drugs may be a treatment option. They work best when started ideally no later than two days after your flu symptoms begin. Failing that, a sofa, plenty of rest and fluids, and Colin From Accounts on repeat should sort you out.
Get serious: Seek help if you experience shortness of breath, chest pain or pressure, sudden dizziness or confusion, severe or persistent vomiting, or if symptoms improve but return with a high fever and cough.

Symptoms include pain or discomfort in the belly, bloating or a feeling of fullness, nausea, and an icky or painful feeling in your upper abdomen or chest, typically after eating or drinking.
The cause: Indigestion is usually due to a group of symptoms that often occur together.
The prevention: While your mother-in-law’s roast potatoes might be next level, go easy. Eat smaller but more frequent meals and try to identify and avoid foods that worsen your symptoms. Sorry to be a party pooper, but avoiding substances that increase reflux will help such as high-fat foods, chocolate, colas and acidic juices.
The cure: Consider antacids to reduce or neutralise stomach acid. Try to reduce stress through mindfulness and relaxation exercises, and stock up on sleep.
Get serious: Seek urgent help if you experience persistent vomiting or pain, unintentional weight loss, difficulty swallowing, or feel like food is getting stuck.