From the pollens and molds released from the tree, to the plants and flowers given as gifts, we can bring lots of potential allergens into the house at this time of year. It’s a good idea, then, to keep some antihistamines on hand over Christmas and, if it’s been prescribed for emergencies, an epipen, in case you develop allergy symptoms.

Many people like to use scented candles and reed diffusers during the holiday season to fill our homes with festive fragrances like cinnamon, ginger and allspice. While they might give a nice effect, home fragrances can contain volatile organic compounds that can be harmful to health. Be particularly careful if you have pets or anyone with respiratory issues, such as asthma or COPD visits—being near a scented product can make some people ill.

One of the most common causes of allergic reactions, though, is the bowl of nuts that everyone seems to have at Christmas, not to mention the nuts found in so many festive foods such as mince pies, Christmas pudding and stuffing. Keep some nut free alternatives in the cupboard too.

Most of us will have our fair share of overindulgence over the holidays. It’s estimated that the average person will consume nearly 6,000 calories on Christmas day, three times the recommended daily amount. Associated weight gain and raised blood cholesterol, can increase the risk of heart attack and stroke. Try to keep the high calorie indulgence to one or two days only.

Christmas excess may also include increased consumption of spicy and fatty food and drinks which can irritate the gut and trigger indigestion.

You can try over-the-counter antacids to help combat the symptoms of indigestion, but seek medical advice for any severe symptoms or those which persist beyond the Christmas period.

A Swedish research group suggested that higher stress levels during the holidays could increase the risk of heart attacks. Given the financial pressure, inevitable family dramas and dietary overindulgence, the increased strain on our bodies is perhaps not surprising. But, it’s not yet clear whether there’s a spike in heart attacks at Christmas. Be on the safe side and consider taking time out to relax to help combat rising stress levels. Never ignore the associated symptoms, such as chest pain, either.

There is always food poisoning around Christmas.  There is the under-cooked turkeys to over-filled fridges and unwashed hands delving into shared snack bowls, there’s no shortage of food hygiene risks at Christmas. If you do fall foul of food poisoning over the festive period, then you’ll know about it. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach cramps and high temperature. It’s crucial to avoid dehydration, so make sure you have lots of fluids and again, seek medical advice if symptoms are present.

Then there is choking, from inhaled nibbles to bits of plastic from presents and crackers, Christmas is actually full of choking hazards. It’s important, then, to be aware of these small pieces, especially if you have young children tearing around the house.

And bear in mind it’s not just children who can choke—adults can too.

Encourage the choking person to cough but be ready to perform back slaps and abdominal thrusts to try to dislodge the block—and to call 911 if the obstruction isn’t clearing.

We always have alcohol lovers.  Some of us are guilty of enjoying festive spirits a little too much over Christmas.

The current recommendation is spread out rather than consumed in one binge.

Consider planning ahead to decide what and where you’re going to drink. Including some alcohol-free days and New Year abstinence could also help to reduce the ill effects of any festive drinking.  Watch out for those especially on medications; if you’re on medication, check whether there are any harmful interactions with alcohol.

Also watch out for the one who is the designated driver.

Not to sound “bah hum bug” here but be careful and watch out for your health while having a Happy Holiday season as well!