5 Things to Do When You're Sick

Sometimes it's fine to rest and let your cold symptoms pass. Other times, it's a better idea to be seen by your doctor. Some symptoms worth calling your doctor about include:

• Significant abdominal pain that's persisted for 24 to 48 hours
• A headache accompanied by fever, a stiff neck, or persistent vomiting or diarrhea
• A sore throat that makes swallowing difficult
• Painful coughing or chest tightness when you breathe
• A fever over 100.4 degrees F accompanied by congestion

In our overworked society, it can be tough to know when to call in sick. But if you have these symptoms, it's better for you and your coworkers if you stay home and rest. 

• Fever
• Coughing
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Contagious rash
• Exhaustion

Exercise is important, but there are times when it could do more harm than good—both for you and those around you. If you have a fever, skip exercise until it breaks. If you have a few cold symptoms but otherwise feel OK, you may be able to get some light exercise in if you feel inclined, but it's best to avoid the gym so you don't spread your illness to those around you.

Always listen to your body and remember that rest is important, too.

A lot of people go to the emergency room when they have the flu, even though they don't really need to be there. Although influenza makes you feel terrible, chances are good that it's not a true emergency.

The following are signs and symptoms that should prompt a trip to the hospital:

• Difficulty breathing
• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain or severe abdominal pain
• Severe muscle pain
• Confusion
• Sudden dizziness
• Severe vomiting or vomiting that won't stop
• Not urinating
• Fever or cough that worsens or comes back after improving

If you're not experiencing these, but are just feeling miserable, try self-care strategies and see your doctor if your symptoms persist.

Avoiding the ER unless you need it helps save resources, but it also saves you from exposure more other germs.

It's important to get a flu shot every year, but you may want to wait until you're healthy. In some cases, getting vaccinated while you're sick could make recovering from your illness take longer. Talk with your doctor about your symptoms before getting vaccinated.