With the tough economic times, the last thing you want to do is miss a day of work because you are sick. Many people are worried about the security of their jobs and don’t want to risk their work performance because of a cold or the flu.
Obviously there are the everyday common sense things you can do: wash your hands, take your vitamins, get the right amount of sleep, etc. But there are some things that you may not have thought of as the winter season approaches (or that may have just slipped your mind!).
Get the Flu Shot
Many people do not want to pay a lot of money for the flu shot, but the truth is…you might not have to! When you go to a hospital to get your flu shot, often times you have to pay a copayment and a nurse’s fee for giving you the shot, this can get expensive. However, various retailers offer their customers the opportunity to get the flu shot. Last year my mum got hers at Stop & Shop and this year I noticed a flyer for the Target near me offering it as well. This option is typically cheaper than your doctor and more convenient since you don’t have to make an appointment. Also, check with your employer to see if they are planning on having people come into the office to give out shots. Many employers want to make sure their employees are healthy throughout the winter season and will offer you’re the opportunity to get the flu shot free of charge! Everyone reacts differently to the flu shot so I can’t guarantee that you won’t get sick, but it may help.
Don’t Leave the House with Wet Hair
This may sound silly but believe me it’s not! You think you are only outside for a few seconds before you get into your car or as you walk into work, but the truth is leaving the house with your hair wet from your shower can really cause you problems in such cold weather. One winter I was walking right down the street to my class every morning and eventually got sick with both Bronchitis and Pneumonia at the same time. The doctor said that leaving the house every morning with my hair wet was probably a major contributing factor to how sick I got.
Don’t Depend on Antibiotics
You don’t want to always go to the doctor seeking antibiotics for things like a common cold or the flu. Although they may seem like a quick and easy cure to your sickness, they may not benefit you in the long run. According to MSN.com, it is estimated that about 142,000 emergency room visits each year are due to people having an adverse reaction to medications. Also, if you take medications too much your body may become immune to them it may cause drug resistant bacteria which can cause even bigger problems later on. Emergency room visits are expensive so try to fix your cold or flu on your own before you seek medications.
Last (but definitely not least) …
Make Sure You Are Covered
Health insurance is really important to how much your sickness may cost you this winter. Missing work may not be easy if you get sick, but paying for your medical bills without insurance will be even worse. According to MainStreet.com, 34% of high school graduates lack health care coverage while 35% of college graduates do not have it. These numbers continue to increase and people are struggling to cover medical costs. However, health insurance may be more affordable than you think; you just have to do your research. Check out this Geezeo article for tips on what to do if you are uninsured.
Staying healthy isn’t always easy when you have such a busy lifestyle. Make sure to take time for yourself and ensure that you are keeping on top of your health. Nothing is worse than extra medical bills to pay for a bad cold or the flu.
Photo: Juanarreo
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