12-17-2025 11:59pm

Ways To Help Avoid Digestive Emergencies this Holiday Season

Beth Callahan Editor

Photo via Pexels.com

KINGS MILLS, OH -- The holiday season is a time for celebration. Still, for some, it can also lead to emergency room visits caused by gallbladder attacks, indigestion, or other digestive issues. General surgeons at Mercy Health – Kings Mills Hospital are reminding the community to enjoy holiday meals in moderation and know the warning signs of a potential surgical emergency.

“Fatty, rich foods – like those often served during the holidays – can trigger gallbladder attacks, especially in people with undiagnosed gallstones,” says Sandra Medley, chief nursing officer of Mercy Health’s Kings Mills Hospital. “We want people to celebrate the season safely and know when it’s time to seek care.”

To help avoid digestive emergencies during the holiday season, it’s important to practice moderation when enjoying festive meals. Eating smaller portions and limiting rich, fried, or fatty foods can reduce the risk of triggering gallbladder attacks or other gastrointestinal issues. Staying well-hydrated and maintaining regular physical activity can also support better digestion. Most importantly, people should pay close attention to how they feel after eating and note any severe, persistent, or noticeably worse abdominal discomfort after meals.

In some cases, holiday indulgences can lead to symptoms that require immediate medical care. Individuals should seek prompt attention if they experience sudden, sharp pain in the upper right abdomen, nausea, vomiting, or fever – especially when these symptoms follow a large or fatty meal. Pain that worsens rather than improves over time is another red flag that should not be ignored. Recognizing and responding quickly to these signs can help prevent a serious surgical emergency and ensure a quicker recovery.

“Waiting too long to seek care can turn a treatable issue into a surgical emergency,” added Medley.

Mercy Health’s general surgeons are trained to perform a wide range of procedures for nearly every part of the body. They provide care before, during, and even after your procedure. The experienced general surgery team at Mercy Health includes board-certified doctors who are active in the emergency department and can handle both routine cases and more complex procedures. To learn more about the services we offer, visit mercy.com.