Mardi Gras is one of the most exciting times of the year in Southern Louisiana. Between parades, parties, king cake, and long days outdoors, it's easy to get caught up in the celebration.
Unfortunately, it's also a time when our providers treat thousands of patients across the Baton Rouge, Hammond, and New Orleans area each year.
Many Mardi Gras-related illnesses and injuries are preventable...if you know what to watch for.
Here's how to celebrate safely while keeping yourself (and your family) out of the waiting room.
Stay Ahead of Dehydration
Standing for hours, walking long distances, drinking alcohol, and spending time in the Louisiana humidity can quickly lead to dehydration - even in cooler weather.
Early warning signs include:
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
- Dry Mouth
- Muscle Cramps
What helps:
- Drink water consistently throughout the day, not just when you feel thirsty
- Alternate alcoholic drinks with water
- Bring electrolyte packets if you plan to be out for several hours
Seek medical care immediately if dehydration leads to fainting, confusion, or persistent vomiting.
Wear the Right Shoes to Avoid Foot and Ankle Injuries
One of the most common reasons people visit urgent care during Mardi Gras is surprisingly simple: improper footwear.
Hours on your feet can lead to:
- Sprains
- Strains
- Stress Injuries
- Painful Blisters
- Falls
Reduce your risk by:
- Choosing cushioned, supportive shoes
- Skipping brand-new footwear
- Using gel inserts if you expect heavy walking
If you develop swelling, severe pain, or trouble bearing weight, you should be evaluated promptly.
Keep Children Safe in Large Crowds
Mardi Gras can be incredibly family-friendly, but crowded environments increase the chance of minor injuries and illness.
Common pediatric concerns include:
- Falls
- Cuts that may require stitches
- Dehydration
- Exhaustion
- Fever after long outdoor exposure
Smart safety tips for parents
- For older children, choose a clear meeting point
- Keep your phone number accessible
- Pack water and snacks
- Dress children in layers for temperature swings
Avoid Overdoing It With Food and Alcohol
Celebration foods are part of the Mardi Gras tradition, but excess sugar, alcohol, and heavy meals can trigger uncomfortable symptoms.
Urgent care providers often treat patients for:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Acid reflux
- Stomach pain
- Hangover-related dehydration
Protect yourself by:
- Eating before drinking
- Moderating alcohol intake
- Being cautious with food left out too long
Seek care if vomiting is persistent or abdominal pain becomes severe.
Don't Dismiss Cold or Flu Symptoms After Parades
Large gatherings make Mardi Gras a prime environment for respiratory illness to spread.
Watch for symptoms such as:
- High fever
- Body aches
- Severe sore throat
- Presistent cough
- Extreme fatigue
Testing can help quickly identify illnesses like the flu or other contagious viruses, allowing treatment to begin sooner and helping you avoid spreading it to others.
With a little planning, most Mardi Gras health issues can be avoided. Staying hydrated, wearing supportive shoes, pacing yourself, and monitoring symptoms can help ensure your memories are about celebration - not medical visits. If a health care concern arises, early evaluation can prevent complications and help you get back to enjoying the season faster!
Laissez les bons temps rouler!
Patient Plus Urgent Care – Get in, Get better.
When you’re sick or injured, whether routine or urgent, quality medical care should be easy to find and available when you need it. That’s the idea behind Patient Plus Urgent Care, with convenient locations across Southern Louisiana.
Patient Plus treats most common illnesses and injuries — the sniffles, rashes, fevers, aches, breaks, and other conditions that deserve prompt treatment but aren’t serious enough to require a trip to the nearest emergency room. The clinics provide complete diagnostic services, including X-rays, EKGs, and flu and strep tests. Other services include physicals, vaccinations, and more. Patient Plus clinics are open every day from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., and patients never need to call first or make an appointment.