You know that nagging feeling you get when you know that you are going to get sick with a cold or flu? You are not quite sick yet, but you can almost guarantee that you will be in the next day or two. Your brain kicks into overdrive, wondering what you can do to stop the illness in its tracks because you absolutely don’t have time to be sick right now! However, it could be that your well-intentioned efforts will make your symptoms worse! Let’s look at some of the most common mistakes people make when they think they are getting sick and how your local drug store in Powell, TN, can help you get through it.
Trying to Power Through
The biggest mistake people make when they start getting sick is trying to power through it and keep up with their usual routine. This is actually the worst thing you can choose to do because your body needs energy if it is going to fight off the illness. The best thing you can do is rest. Cancel your plans and stay home from work or school. Prioritizing rest will not only help your body recover but also mean you won’t spread germs to others!
Ignoring Flu Symptoms
A lot of people don’t take having the flu particularly seriously. It is often dismissed as just another standard cold. You don’t really need to see a doctor when you have a cold, so it’s not a big deal if you have the flu, right? Wrong! Flu can be potentially deadly. If you are suffering from the flu, especially if you have a fever, fatigue, and body aches, then you may need to consult a health professional on antiviral medication. The good news is that your local drug store in Powell, TN, can give you a flu test and prescribe Tamiflu if needed. Taking antivirals like Tamiflu in the first 48 hours can reduce the length of your illness and alleviate the symptoms.
Asking For Antibiotics
Many people automatically call their doctor to ask for antibiotics whenever they feel sick. However, antibiotics are not a magical cure for every illness! They may be great for dealing with bacterial infections, but they are completely ineffective for viruses like the cold and flu. Studies show that around a third of antibiotic prescriptions are actually unnecessary, which has led to a worldwide epidemic of antibiotic resistance. Instead of bugging your doctor for a prescription, your local drug store in Powell, TN, can provide over-the-counter cold and flu remedies to treat your symptoms.
Not Drinking Enough Water
If you have pain in your throat, it can be uncomfortable to swallow, leading to you not drinking enough water. It is important to stay hydrated at all times, but even more so when you feel unwell. Not only will drinking plenty of fluids keep you hydrated, but it can also help break up congestion and thin out any mucus lurking. You may find warm drinks or broth easier to swallow than cold water. You can also talk to your local drug store in Powell, TN, about over-the-counter throat lozenges to relieve a sore throat and rehydration sachets to help you replace lost fluids.
Skipping Meals
When you feel under the weather, you may find that you lose your appetite, but it is important that you try to eat something as your body needs calories and nutrients to help fight off viruses. It seems like a cliche, but a nice bowl of chicken soup can often make you feel better when you have a cold or flu.
Not Getting Enough Sleep
Did you know that not getting enough good quality sleep can weaken your immune system? That means your body will struggle to fight off the infection when you get sick. Studies show that those who get under 6 hours of sleep are four times more likely to get sick than those getting more than 7 hours per night! Ask your local drug store in Powell, TN, for over-the-counter sleep aids if you are struggling to fall asleep naturally.
Getting Stressed Out
When you get stressed, your body releases hormones that attack your immune system and increase inflammation in your body. That means that if you are stressed out when you are already sick, your symptoms are likely to feel even worse. We all worry about not having time to get ill, but the truth is that if you just try to relax and get some rest, you will be back on your feet in no time! Stressing about missing work or school is only going to make the illness last longer.
Your Hometown Pharmacy Since 1966
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Vaughn Pharmacy is a local, family-owned pharmacy serving the community in Powell, TN. Specializing in providing personalized and attentive prescription programs to our patients, we believe you are more than just a number – you’re part of our family!
(865) 947-1581