Hong Kong doctor warns Christmas revellers to be careful about drinking excessively
Revellers are warned that excessive alcohol can have serious consequences for their health
You had better think twice if you decide to get drunk tonight, as you might spend your Christmas in hospital.
Alcohol might be an indispensable element for revellers celebrating the festival. However, excessive alcohol can lead to acute alcohol intoxication and dysfunctional behaviour.
Dr Albert Fung Sze-chun of United Christian Hospital said that on average two to three people were sent to the accident and emergency ward each night.
"During festive periods, especially on Christmas Eve, the amount is double or three times that number," Fung said.
Drunk people sent to hospital usually suffer injured heads or necks, as they cannot balance properly.
Drug abuse can also increase risks. The taking of stimulants such as Ice often leads to alcohol overdose as the drug suppresses the drowsy effect of drinks, while tranquillisers slow the pulse and intensify the risk of blacking out.
Fung recalled the case of a heavily drunk man around two years ago. The patient, in his 20s, had blacked out and experienced difficulty in breathing when he was sent to the accident and emergency ward. At one point, his pulse stopped, and he was given emergency cardiopulmonary resuscitation and adrenaline to revive him.