How to Survive Your Day when You’re Sick

When you have a cold or an annoying cough, it can be hard to want to go to work. So what do you do if can’t call in sick and have to be at work? Check out these quick tips for surviving cold and flu season:

1. DRINK FLUIDS

Sip water, juice, broth, ice chips, and other clear liquids throughout the day. Staying hydrated helps your immune system fight illness. Try to avoid dehydrating drinks like coffee, caffeinated sodas, energy drinks, and alcohol.

2. TAKE MEDICINE

Keep cough drops, throat sprays, and over-the-counter cough suppressants at your desk. If necessary, over-the-counter acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or naproxen bring down a fever and help with aches.

3. HUMIDIFY

While you rest or sleep, run a clean humidifier or a cool-mist vaporizer in your room. It can ease stuffiness and help you breathe better. Use a saline spray to help a stuffy nose. It helps congestion by loosening mucus and rinsing your sinuses.

4. AVOID SMOKE

Smoking, secondhand smoke, and other not-so-fresh air can bother your nose, throat, and lungs. Make it easier on yourself while you’re getting better and try to avoid smoke.

5. CONTAIN GERMS

To avoid passing your germs to co-workers, avoid contact with others as best you can. Sneeze and cough into the crook of your elbow — not into your hands. Wash your hands often with soap and water and avoid shaking hands.

6. REST UP

After work, go home and get a good meal — try some chicken soup. Then, get in bed! When you’re sick, your body needs rest and sleep. Give it what it needs to get better.