If you are feeling under the weather, you are probably dreading it. Even the mildest of sicknesses can take a toll on your body and prevent you from participating fully in your daily responsibilities and activities. As such, it is useful to know how to avoid getting common illnesses and how to feel better if you do get sick.
Reasons Why You May Be Sick
Most of the time, we think that we get sick by chance, but that’s not necessarily true. Here are some reasons why you might be feeling unwell.
Hereditary Factors
You may have inherited some types of allergies from one or both of your parents. Allergic reactions can range from mild to life-threatening. They are caused by the immune system overproducing antibodies to “fight” the allergen present in the body.
Common allergies include hay fever, eczema, asthma, hives, and food allergies. Children are more commonly affected by allergies, but a first-time occurrence can happen at any age.
Workplace Environment
If there’s a cold or flu going around the office, there’s a good chance you’re going to get sick, particularly if your immune system is easily compromised.
Workplaces have communal areas and objects that get passed around constantly. Touching your eyes, nose, or mouth after contact with a contaminated object is a sure way for you to get the same sickness as your colleagues.
Time of the Year
Some illnesses affect more people at certain times of the year. For example, seasonal allergies like pollen or hay allergies usually occur during spring. Meanwhile, the flu and strep throat are more common during fall and winter.
Chronic Conditions
If you’re experiencing recurring symptoms, you may have a chronic illness. There are a variety of causes of these conditions. These include age, diet, and lifestyle choices such as being overweight, smoking, and drinking excessive alcohol.
Tips to Fight Common Illnesses
No one enjoys feeling sick. It can take away from your busy day, the enjoyment you typically feel participating in your favorite activities, and can even impact your work performance. Not to mention, feeling sick is simply uncomfortable.
Get Enough Rest
You may think that staying on your feet will shake off whatever ailment you’re feeling. However, it’s not advisable to go about your day when your body is giving you signals that it’s not functioning properly. It’s best to listen to your body and take a break.
Getting ample sleep is critical to a speedy recovery. Good quality sleep has been proven to boost the immune system, which is crucial for recovery. To help you get quality sleep, make sure the room is dark, quiet, and cool.
Wash Your Hands Frequently
Cold viruses are transmitted by touch. If you use the same utensils and equipment as others, share the same food, or interact frequently with someone who has a cold, you’re more likely to get sick.
It’s important to thoroughly wash your hands with soap for at least 20 seconds several times a day, as well as avoid touching your nose, mouth, and eyes when you are outside your home. These steps can help prevent many common illnesses.
If you are sick, it’s important to continue taking these precautions as to not spread your illness to others around you.
Drink Lots of Fluids
Drinking water and other beverages like juices, broth, and electrolyte drinks when you’re feeling sick helps you replace the fluids you’ve lost. You also take in vital nutrients and eliminate waste.
Remember that being dehydrated can prolong your illness, so be sure to monitor your fluid intake over the course of a day.
Take Over-the-Counter Medications
Some go-to medications when you’re feeling flu symptoms such as fever, runny nose, and sore throat are acetaminophen and ibuprofen. Take these medications to reduce fever and muscle aches, as well. Meanwhile, seasonal allergies can be treated with oral antihistamines, decongestants, and nasal sprays. These drugs treat sneezing, itchy skin, and stuffy nose.
Consult with Your Primary Care Provider
If you cannot pinpoint why you’re feeling unwell or if your symptoms persist for more than a few days, it’s best to seek the help of an expert. Your primary care provider can diagnose what’s ailing you and guide you towards the best treatment options.
You should also consult with a primary care provider if you suspect that you may have a chronic condition, such as diabetes, bronchitis, or high blood pressure.
Primary Care Provider at Wellington and Palm Beach, Florida
If at-home remedies do not work or you believe that you’re experiencing something more serious, it’s best to get yourself checked out by a primary care provider.
Here at Advance Medical, we provide quality healthcare to our patients. We offer internal medicine and family medicine services in Wellington and Palm Beach, Florida. Our comprehensive treatment options and experienced healthcare providers ensure that your visit with us will be both seamless and worry-free.
If you have any questions about our services, contact us at (561) 434-1935. You can also fill out our convenient online appointment request form. We look forward to getting you back to full health!
