Picture this: You’re on the couch binge watching Netflix with a stuffy nose and a heavy head; Medicine is at your side and you’re counting down the hours until you’re better so you can get back to work and finish that project. Sound familiar? Yep, we’ve all been there. It’s hard to be sick, but it is easy to get better.

George Bernard Shaw once said, ‘The art of being sick is not the same as the art of getting well.’

No, being sick is not the same as getting well. When you’re sick, you’re most likely feeling bitter, angry, or guilty. The thought “Why me?” might run through your mind. The good news is you can start getting better with one quick attitude adjustment. The golden rule of getting well: allow yourself to be sick. Stop feeling guilty because it’s not your fault. It is not a sign of weakness, but it is a sign to turn the frown upside down and get well. Follow these surprisingly simple rules to get better when you’re sick at home:

Sick Rule #1: Stay at Home

Getting better starts with staying at home. Don’t go to work or school! Your germs will infect everyone else, or everyone else will think you are infecting them. We’re not sure which is worse but trust us, your friends and colleagues will thank you for not coming to work or school sick. You need to stay at home where you are most comfortable, where you can rest, and where you can start the healing process.

Sick Rule #2: Sleep as Much as You Can.

A study done by Aric Prather revealed that individuals who sleep fewer than five hours a night are 4.5 times more likely to experience illness than those who sleep seven hours or more. The Mayo Clinic reports napping during the day can allow relaxation, reduce fatigue, increase alertness, and improve mood, reaction time, and memory.

Getting a good amount of sleep is vital in getting better. Sleep gives your body the energy it needs to fight illness off.

Sick Rule #3: Drink Lots of Water.

Stay hydrated! Drinking water helps flush your body of infection. The saying “drink eight 8-ounce glasses of water a day” is a good rule of thumb for ordinary days, but you need to increase that amount when you’re sick. Remember that certain foods also hold water, and they can help reach your water-intake goal as well.

Sick Rule #4: Eat Healthy Food.

When you’re sick, you likely don’t have much of an appetite, but if you do be sure to stick to whole grains, fruits and vegetables. Avoid sweets and greasy fast food because they won’t have the right nutrients that will help you fight off your illness.

If you are experiencing vomiting, avoid solid foods. Fruit smoothies are a nutritious option, but won’t help if you have diarrhea. Stick to the traditional meal of chicken noodle soup to consume nutrients that will help boost your immune system and add electrolytes and vitamins to your body.

Sick Rule #5: Stay Clean.

Tasking a hot shower can not only wash away germs on your body but can help loosen mucus. Washing your hands frequently will get rid of germs collecting on your hands and will prevent you from potentially absorbing more germs.

 

For mild to moderate cold and flu symptoms people typically do not need to see a doctor. But if you are experiencing severe symptoms or have questions, make an appointment. You can call our office directly at 801-724-9840.