If you have questions about your symptoms or think you need to see the doctor, call the nurse first: 402-472-5000.
WHEN TO SEE THE DOCTOR
Call the University Health Center at 402-472-5000 if…
- Your fever is greater than 101.9 for 24 to 48 hours and does not improve with medication
- You’re having trouble keeping food or fluids down
- It hurts to swallow
- Your cough persists for 10 or more days
- Your congestion or headache lingers
- You experience breathing difficulty or chest pain
Is it a Cold or Flu?
Colds and the flu have some commonalities, but it’s important to know the differences and when to see a doctor. Both are common respiratory illnesses caused by different viruses. Generally, the flu is worse than the common cold—symptoms are more intense and have a sudden onset.
| Signs/Symptoms | Flu | Cold |
|---|---|---|
| Symptom onset | Abrupt | Gradual |
| Fever | Usually | Rare |
| Aches | Usually | Slightly |
| Chills | Fairly common | Uncommon |
| Sneezing/stuffy nose | Sometimes | Common |
| Sore throat | Sometimes | Common |
| Chest discomfort/cough | Common | Mild to moderate |
What Medicine Will Help Me Feel Better?
Antibiotics will not help because colds and flus are viruses, not bacterial infections. Learn more on the CDC website.
These over-the-counter items can help you manage symptoms. All of the following items can be purchased at the University Health Center pharmacy.
| Symptom | Over-the-Counter Medication | Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Fever, sore throat and/or pain relief | Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) free at the health center OR Aleve OR Acetaminophen (Tylenol) free at the health center | 200mg one to two tabs every six to eight hours 1 tab every 12 hours 325mg, one to two tabs every six hours (no more than eight tabs per day) |
| Congestion of sinuses, ears and/or chest | Pseudoephedrine (Sudafed 12 hour) Only available behind the counter at pharmacies | Take a.m. and p.m. while congested |
| Allergy symptoms or mild congestion | Diphenhydramine 25mg (Benadryl) Loratadine (Claritin) Cetirizine (Zyrtec) | One to two tabs every six hours One tab daily |
| Excess mucus | Guaifenesin (Mucinex) Guaifenesin/Pseudoephedrine (Mucinex D) Guaifenesin/Dextromethorphan (Mucinex DM) | One tab every 12 hours D = a decongestant DM = a cough suppressant |
| Cough | Dextromethorphan (Delsym 12h) Guaifenesin/Dextromethorphan (Robitussin DM) | Take as directed on the label |
| Dry sinuses | Nasal saline washes/sprays | Take as directed on the label |
Self-Care Tips
- Stock up on over-the-counter supplies to help you manage your symptoms
- Self-isolate for at least 24 hours after your fever and symptoms have resolved. Contact your professor if you are unable to attend class
- Wash your hands frequently with soap or use hand sanitizers containing ethyl alcohol
- Increase your fluid intake. Stick to clear fluids as much as possible. Hot teas and chicken noodle soup are other great options
- Rest as much as possible. If you’re tired, your body is trying to tell you to slow down
- Don’t take double doses of any medications and read all labels and packaging carefully
- Don’t consume alcohol, smoke or ingest other irritants such as dust as these can worsen mucus production
- Seek emergency medical care if your symptoms are severe (chest pain, shortness of breath, persistently high fever of over 102 F, etc.)
Preventive Care Tips
- Get your flu shot every year (free for students at the health center)
- Wash your hands often with soap and warm water (especially after coughing or sneezing)
- Always cover your cough with a tissue or by turning your head into your sleeve
- Don’t reuse or keep tissues; throw them away after use
- Have hand sanitizer with you in case soap and water isn’t available
- Try not to touch your nose, mouth or eyes because this can spread germs
- Don’t share drinks or food and try to keep items like cellphones, remotes, laptops, etc. to yourself
Resources
Current CDC Flu Recommendations
Antibiotic Resistance
How to Take Your Temperature