When you have cold symptoms, your body needs rest to recover. And while it’s important to focus on your health, you should also be sure you’re doing all you can to keep those around you from catching what you have.
These five tips will help you figure out what you should do when you’re sick, and what can wait until you’re on the mend.
Significant abdominal pain that’s lasted for 24 to 48 hoursA headache accompanied by fever, a stiff neck, or persistent vomiting or diarrheaA sore throat that makes swallowing difficultPainful coughing or chest tightness when you breatheFor adults, a fever of 103 or higher; for infants, a fever of 100. 4 or higher
FeverCoughingVomitingDiarrheaContagious rashExhaustion
If you have a few cold symptoms but otherwise feel fine, you may be able to get in some light exercise. Still, it’s best to avoid the gym so you don’t spread your illness to those around you. Always listen to your body and remember that rest is important, too.
The following are signs and symptoms that should prompt a trip to the hospital:
Difficulty breathingShortness of breathChest pain or severe abdominal painSevere muscle painConfusionSudden dizzinessSevere vomiting or vomiting that won’t stopNot urinatingFever or cough that worsens or comes back after improving
If you’re not experiencing these, but are just feeling miserable, try self-care strategies. See your healthcare provider if your symptoms persist. Avoiding the ER unless you need it helps save resources, but it also saves you from exposure to other germs.
Talk with your healthcare provider about your symptoms before getting vaccinated. If nothing else, getting a flu shot assists with herd immunity, which can prevent others with compromised immune systems from getting the flu.
If you are vomiting or have a fever, it’s important to stay home so you don’t pass your illness along to others. And if you haven’t had your flu shot yet, it’s a good idea to delay it until you are well.
