By: Chrysa Keenon | Echo
It's that time of year again. No, not the holidays (even though the Christmas displays are already up in Cracker Barrel). It's one of the worst times in a college student's life: flu season.
All of us get the flu or some form of cold each year. No matter how many shots or antibiotics you seem to take, you still end up with a runny nose and sore throat the day after your roommate starts coughing. It's difficult to live in a shared space with potential germs spreading in all directions. There are lots of things you can try to do to prevent yourself from the flu, but oftentimes getting the sniffles is inevitable.
What if it's too late, and you are already feeling down? Here are some ways that can help you beat the bug.
- As soon as you start to feel the tickle in the back of your throat, chug water or juice. Keeping your body hydrated is important and necessary. Any extra boost you can get will help the illness pass faster.
- Gargling salt water is an easy way to combat a sore throat. Combine a few tablespoons of salt with warm water and swish it for about thirty seconds. Repeat this at least twice a day. The salt draws out the bacteria and excess fluid from the inflamed tissue in your throat, which can help it heal faster.
- If you feel up for it, go for some light exercise. This doesn't mean to keep training for the 5k you want to run. Go for a walk with a friend or do some stretches. According to Health.com, the movement will boost your immune system and give you a feeling of completion. But remember, only do this if you feel like you can, and definitely refrain if you have a high fever. Keep your heart rate under 100 beats per minute! (Stop a Cold in its Tracks, Health.com)
- Inhaling warm and steamy air can help the mucus in your nasal tracts thin and loosen. Take a long, hot shower or lean your head over a bowl of hot water. (Steam is good for your pores, too!)
- Rest is one of the most important factors in recovering from any kind of sickness. Our bodies work extra hard when we are fighting off a cold, so they need all the rest we can give them. If you can't afford to sleep because of classes, take some downtime instead, such as curling up with your favorite blanket to do homework or wearing sweatpants instead of nicer clothing.
- Don't be afraid to call in sick. As busy college students, we are often swamped by the
work our professors give us. However, your health is just as important as your education. If you aren't feeling up to going to class, shoot the professor an email and explain your situation. He or she is more likely to be receptive of the idea of your missing class for health reasons rather than just skipping. This also gives them the opportunity to pray for your well-being and help you make up any work you missed. They really just want the best for you.
