HOME DOCTOR,WHAT IF?

The Home Doctor: What to Do If You're Sick

If you're feeling under the weather, you may be wondering what to do. Thankfully, there are a few steps you can take to help you get better faster. In this blog post, we'll be exploring the basics of what to do if you're sick, or need medical advice and care, from the comfort of your own home. From knowing when to visit a doctor, to getting the care you need without leaving your home, the home doctor has you covered. Read on to learn more about how to stay safe and healthy from the comfort of your own home.

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Get plenty of rest

When you’re feeling ill, getting plenty of rest is a must. Doing so will give your body the time and energy it needs to recover and heal. Resting may help reduce symptoms, alleviate pain, and speed up the recovery process.

It’s important to get enough sleep, but also to practice good sleep hygiene. Try to go to bed and wake up at consistent times each day, avoid caffeine and alcohol late in the day, limit blue light exposure from screens before bed, and avoid using technology while in bed.

You should also try to stay away from strenuous activities that require physical effort, such as exercise and sports. If your symptoms prevent you from sleeping, talk to your doctor about medication that can help.

Drink lots of fluids

When you're sick, it's important to make sure you drink plenty of fluids. Water is a great choice, but you should also consider other liquids like herbal tea, diluted fruit juice, clear broths, and sports drinks. Caffeinated beverages should be avoided since they can dehydrate you further.

Drinking fluids helps to thin out mucus in your throat and nose and keep them moist, which can help soothe symptoms like coughing and congestion. Staying hydrated can also help to reduce fatigue and headache associated with a cold or the flu.

Finally, drinking fluids is especially important if you're dealing with vomiting or diarrheal since it will help prevent dehydration. Adults should aim to drink at least 8-10 glasses of fluid each day while sick, and children should get at least 1-2 cups of fluid every 2 hours.

Gargle with warm salt water

Gargling with warm salt water is a great way to soothe a sore throat and reduce inflammation. To make the solution, mix one teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of warm water. Once mixed, gargle the salt water for at least 30 seconds, making sure to swish it around your mouth and throat. You may even want to tilt your head back slightly as you do this, which will allow the salt water to reach deeper into your throat.

Gargling with warm salt water can be an effective remedy for easing symptoms of a sore throat or other respiratory ailments. It can help reduce inflammation and may help remove irritants and mucus from the throat area. Additionally, the warmth and moisture from the solution may help to soothe and relax the muscles and tissues in your throat.

Just remember not to swallow the salt water — simply gargle and spit it out after each use. Additionally, try not to overuse this remedy as it can have a drying effect on your throat if used too often. If your sore throat persists for more than a few days, be sure to contact your doctor.

Take over-the-counter medication

When you’re feeling under the weather, it’s easy to reach for over-the-counter medication. Common OTC medications can be helpful in relieving minor symptoms and may help you feel better. However, if your symptoms persist or worsen after taking an OTC medication, be sure to talk to your doctor.

OTC medications like pain relievers and decongestants can provide relief from common cold symptoms such as headaches, sore throat, and stuffiness. You may also find relief from using medications that contain antihistamines, which help reduce sneezing, itchy eyes, and a runny nose. It’s important to follow the dosage instructions on the package and to only use one medication at a time.

It’s best to avoid medications that contain aspirin if you are under 18 years old, as it has been linked to Reye’s syndrome, a rare but serious illness. Additionally, some OTC medications can interact with other medications, supplements, or alcohol so be sure to read the label carefully. Finally, always make sure to talk to your doctor before taking any OTC medication.

Use a humidifier

When you’re sick, a humidifier can be your best friend. Humidifiers help to add moisture to the air, which can help to alleviate coughing, congestion, and sore throats. The added moisture in the air can also help you to breathe more easily, which is especially important when you’re sick.

It’s important to make sure that the humidity level in your home stays below 50 percent, as anything higher than this can increase the growth of mold and dust mites. You should also keep your humidifier clean by changing the filter regularly and wiping it down with a disinfectant.

Humidifiers come in many shapes and sizes and can be used both in the bedroom and other areas of the house. The best kind of humidifier to use is one with a cool mist setting, as this will help to create a more comfortable environment while still helping to reduce symptoms of sickness.

Drink warm liquids

Drinking warm liquids can help ease congestion and soothe a sore throat. This can be as simple as hot water with honey or lemon, or herbal teas with ingredients like ginger and peppermint. You can also try chicken soup, bone broth, hot milk, or fruit-infused waters. Warm liquids can help to thin mucus and reduce inflammation. They are also easier to swallow than cold liquids, which can provide relief if your throat is irritated. Be sure to drink plenty of fluids in general to stay hydrated and flush out the toxins that could be causing your illness.

Get some fresh air

Fresh air can help you feel better when you’re sick. If the weather permits, go for a short walk or sit outside in a sunny spot. The sun’s rays can help boost your immune system and reduce inflammation. Inhaling the fresh air can also help clear your nasal passages and relieve congestion. It can also help boost your energy levels, helping you to feel more alert and productive. Make sure you are dressed warmly, as the cold air can make some symptoms worse.

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