Super Bowl Sunday: Watch Out for Health Hazards

Game Day Risks

Fans gearing up to cheer on the Seattle Seahawks or New England Patriots should also think about their health. The excitement of a close game can raise blood pressure and stress the heart, putting people with conditions such as:

Heart disease
High blood pressure
Diabetes
Irregular rhythms
Narrowed arteries

at greater risk.

Doctor's Advice

Take medications exactly as prescribed.
Do not watch the game alone if you have heart problems.
Keep your environment cool.
Avoid overeating.
Drink alcohol only in moderation, especially if you are on blood thinners.

Warning Signs

Heart Attack

Chest pressure or burning
Pain that spreads to arms or jaw
Shortness of breath
Nausea
Sweating
Dizziness

Stroke

Sudden slurred speech
Weakness in the face or limbs
Vision changes
Loss of balance
Severe headache

Call emergency services immediately if any of these appear.

Winter Season Risks

The winter season brings cough and allergy medicines into many homes. Mixing these with alcohol can be dangerous, as can using them while driving; they may cause drowsiness or blurred vision.

If you are hosting, store all medications safely out of reach from children and pets.

Food Safety

When cooking for a crowd, follow basic food safety steps:

Clean hands and surfaces.
Keep raw meat separate from other foods.
Cook everything to the right temperature using a thermometer.
Refrigerate leftovers within two hours.

Symptoms of food poisoning—nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, diarrhea, and fever—can surface within a few hours.

Food Allergies

Children in the U.S. often have food allergies; reactions can be severe.

Pets also face risks: chocolate, candy, or foods containing xylitol can cause vomiting and diarrhea in dogs.

Alcohol Risks

Alcohol is more potent than many people realize, especially in mixed drinks.

Signs of alcohol poisoning include:

Confusion
Slow breathing
Vomiting
Seizures
Blue lips

Sleeping it off is unsafe; hydration is the best recovery for a hangover.

Edible Risks

Products that look like candy—such as edible cannabis, nicotine, or vaping items—can attract children and pets. They may contain unknown amounts of THC and can cause serious illness or breathing trouble in young ones.

Emergency Actions

If someone appears unconscious or shows signs of a heart attack, stroke, or severe poisoning, call emergency services right away.