Staying Healthy During Finals !

As we approach finals week and cold weather, the combination of both together can mean some serious illness for college students. Between anxiety and stress compromising the immune system, we’re bound to be that annoying person in the classroom blowing their nose every five seconds … Or worse … Sniffling every five seconds.

Here are some common health concerns among college students, along with some ways to treat them and prevent them.

1. Walking Pneumonia:

This milder version of full blown pneumonia is still a cause for concern. With symptoms including fatigue, sore throat, cold chills, headache, and coughs in spasms, walking pneumonia can lead to serious complications. While mild forms can be fought by the bodies immune system, its important to seek medical attention when these symptoms arise.

2. Bronchitis:

An inflammation of the bronchi (the air passages that extend from the windpipe into the lungs) which may be caused by viruses, bacteria, or other  inhalants. of chemical pollutants or dust. When the cilia (small hairs) become overly irritated, they stop functioning. Consequently, the air passages become clogged by debris, and irritation increases. In response, a heavy secretion of mucous develops, which causes the characteristic cough of bronchitis.

3. Sleep Paralysis:

This is common among students who have an irregular sleep pattern or underlying sleep disorder. Sleep paralysis involved the distrubance of the REM sleep cycle, leaving the body and muscles totally paralyzed though a person is aware that they are awake. While the phenomenon only lasts a few seconds to a few minutes, it can be terrifying. Although medical officials say it presents no serious dangers, it can lead to other serious sleep disorders such as sleep apnea.

4. Meningitis:

An infection that can lead to a swelling of the fluid around the brain and spinal cord, this disease can be viral or bacterial. Viral meningitis is less severe and clears up on its own. Bacterial meningitis on the other hand is severe and may result in brain damage, hearing loss, learning disability, or death.

Overall Prevention:

Stay hydrated : Replenishing lost fluids can help the body flush the system

Get adequate sleep: Even just a few hours of napping is better than no sleep at all

Workout: Getting the blood flowing release relaxing endorphins and keeps you in shape

Eating healthy: Chugging energy drinks and eating fast food may be convenient, they make your body crash and feel sluggish

Dress appropriately: While you may not be ready to accept the fact its wintertime, the reality is cold weather comes with plenty of opportunity to compromise the immue system. Stay warm and dry!

Adequate Nutrition: Talk to a health care professional to see if getting on a vitamin regimen is right for you, or if you do have any symptoms or feel ill, go to the Doctor to see if you need prescribed drugs, or if over-the-counter medicine will help you get back into tip top shape!