Over the past few weeks, many of us have been either coughing and sneezing or crossing our fingers hoping not to get the infamous Bentley “Treebola.” For those of you who have already gotten sick, I’m sure you were desperate to go home and curl up in your own bed and eat you mom’s homemade soup. However, since many students are far away from home, it is important to take the necessary measures to ensure a fast recovery. Here are a few ways to cope with sickness when living at Bentley.
1. Drink Plenty of Fluids
It is very important to drink lots of water when sick to avoid dehydration. Fruit juices and hot soups are also great for sore throats. These are always available at the 921. However, be sure to avoid soda and coffee because caffeinated drinks will prompt dehydration.
2. Get Plenty of Rest
Sleep is the best way to give your body time to cure. Therefore, this is probably not the best time to stay up late and binge watch your favorite show on Netflix. Go to sleep earlier than usual at night and allow yourself to take naps during the day if you do not feel too well.
3. Go to the Health Center
Be sure to visit the health center if you develop a fever or if you would like advice on what medicine to take. Your recovery time can become a lot quicker if you follow a professional’s advice.
4. Eat Proper Foods
Although most of us don’t want to eat anything when we are sick, it’s important to get the nutrition we need by eating light foods. Soup, oatmeal, bananas, leafy green vegetables, and fish are good options. Avoid scratchy foods like chips, sugary foods, and fried foods until your fever and cold are gone.
5. Stock up on Cough Drops and Tissues
After your fever is gone and you have to get back to classes, you will probably still be facing a runny nose and extended periods of coughing. Don’t you hate it when you can’t stop coughing when the professor is in the middle of a lecture? Or when your nose starts running and you realize you don’t have any tissues with you? Make sure to always have lots of cough drops and tissues in your bag!
These are just a few tips students can follow when they are sick. Wishing those who are sick a speedy recovery!