Since we are getting into the thick of winter and seeing some actual snow on the ground, noses are starting to run and fevers are starting to rise. When you live on campus and have sick roommates or get sneezed on in Market, the flu or viruses can be unavoidable. Sometimes all you can do is buckle down and plan for the worst. With that strategy in mind, here are some tips to cope with sickness:
1. Eat popsicles
When you can't keep anything down, I've found that popsicles can be unoffensive to the stomach. They also soothe throats and dull headaches, so it is potentially a three birds one stone scenario.
2. Avoid wearing real pants at all costs
There is no reason you should ever be in anything other than sweat pants or pajamas. You owe it to yourself to stay comfortable during these tough times.
3. Sleep
Just sleep a lot. Sleep a ridiculous amount. Sleep anytime you do not have to be doing something else.
4. Watch movies or binge a Netflix series
Zoning out in front of the television is tempting regardless of your health, but it is 100% more acceptable to do when you're sick and you don't have the energy to do literally anything else.
5. Eat soup
Call up a close friend or significant other and ask them to bring you some soup. If they are unavailable, get it delivered. The warmth is heavenly and it goes down easily.
6. Take a bath
The warm water is so soothing and relaxing, especially when it comes to the aches that often accompany the flu. Don't be afraid to stay in there for over an hour, as it can be the only identifiable relief.
7. Call someone who cares about you
One of the worst parts of being sick is that you cannot go out and see people. Call someone up and have a chat to avoid the isolation.
8. Drink fluids
Even if you have a stomach bug and cannot even keep water down, you have to find a way to get fluids in your system. My mom always told me to take a spoon-full of flat soda (ginger ale or coke) every ten minutes for an hour.
9. Listen to music
Put on some slow jams and fall asleep listening to your favorite bands. While television or computer screens can be headache-inducing, listening to music is a low commitment activity with virtually no consequences.
10. Brush your teeth
Brushing your teeth is one of those things that is essential to feeling like a human. If you cannot get out of bed or shower or anything, at least brush your teeth -- it'll make you feel better.
