Broke-Ass Health Care: Cold/Flu Season
I just spent the last few days in bed, sick. In that time I watched three seasons of “Sons of Anarchy” on Netflix and agonized over what to do if it was more than a little bug as I am currently uninsured. I spent a lot of time on the internet (I do not recommend this as typing in symptoms can result in paranoia) and on the phone with my mom (she does know best). It was just a bug and I am feeling much better, thank you.
If you are starting to feel under the weather, check these tips out before you start selling your prized possessions to pay for a doctor’s visit.
1) Wash your hands. Thoroughly and frequently. You do not get sick from being too cold or going outside with wet hair, you get sick from germs. And the best way to get rid of them is to wash your hands. You are supposed to wash for 30 seconds for maximum germ killing so you can count while you wash… or sing “Happy Birthday” as you scrub.
2) Drink lots of fluids. My tip is to drink until your pee is clear. And though it was my mantra throughout college, alcohol does not kill germs. Water is best when you’re sick… or not wanting to get sick.
3a) Invest in a thermometer. Basic digital thermometers are in the $5-10 range. If you feel sick, take your temperature and monitor any changes. Anything below 100.5 isn’t really cause for concern. You can take Tylenol or Advil to reduce your temperature, but if it’s a low fever, you are best off letting it run its course… your body is probably just fighting off an infection.
3b) If the fever is running high AND comes with other symptoms (rash, sore throat, headache, etc.), you need to figure out how to get to a doctor! Watch out for a very sore neck- that’s meningitis and it will kill you. Seriously.
4) Get some rest. I know it’s hard sometimes, but if you can afford the time, let your body rest.
5) Know your body. Know what is normal for YOU. Weird shit happens… but if you aren’t the type to get headaches and suddenly you have had a headache for 3 days straight, you should probably check that out.
OK, stay healthy… and if you must stay in bed, I highly recommend a little FX biker drama therapy.
Photo credit: petgreetings Flickr
