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How To Beat Freshers Flu and Stay Healthy In Your First Year
The start of your university life may seem very exciting as you are sure to encounter new learning, friendships and opportunities. But there is one thing that most of us are not expecting is a freshers flu. It is a very common illness among first-year students as they enter college and start to mix with others in the student population. You might call it an unusual flu, which is usually a mix of cold, sore throat, tiredness and a few times fever as well. However, it is important to distinguish freshers’ flu from the actual flu, which is caused by the influenza virus and tends to be more severe. Once you or your classmates catch it, it spreads like wildfire during the first few weeks of your college life.
A few months ago, I had the opportunity to interact with a group of students from different colleges who had recently started their first semester, and almost all of them mentioned some sort of illness that is equivalent to freshman flu.
The reason for such a high prevalence is simple. You get into a close group of totally strange people and surroundings. You share space and, of course, germs. On top of that, lack of sleep, anxiety, etc. will further fuel it.
So, in this article, I will talk more about freshers flu and some quick tips on how to combat it. But I am not a doctor, and these are very general tips if you need medical help, do not hesitate. But if you know what to expect and have some smart tips on how to deal with it, most of you will be able to survive the first few weeks of your exciting university life.
How to deal with freshers’ flu at university and boost your immune system?
Dealing with the first bout of freshers flu can feel a little daunting. But it is manageable with a few simple steps. The first step I am going to tell you is to sleep. Yes, you need to take a few days off from your classes and get a good night’s sleep. This will help your body recover quickly.
The second smart tip is to hydrate. Drink plenty of water and if possible, juices. This will flush out the toxins from your body.
Sometimes you will find that you need something more than these quick and smart steps. Then it’s time for medical advice. Over-the-counter medications such as painkillers, decongestants, cough suppressants, and combination medications can help alleviate symptoms like aches and pains, blocked nose, and coughs. Do not hesitate to visit your campus doctor or a nearby health centre. They will be able to give you the right medication for a faster recovery.
And one important point I don’t want you to miss is to inform your professor. Most of them will understand, as they may have seen many such cases. I bet they will be willing to help you with a few extra classes to catch up. Not to mention your friends and flatmates if you live in a student hall or hostel.
How long does freshers flu last in the first few weeks?
So, you must be wondering how long freshers flu will keep you down. Usually not too long. It is very common for you to feel worse for the first few days, perhaps with a sore throat, congestion, and other common symptoms. But most students start to feel better within the first week. Full recovery depends on how well you take care of yourself.
As you know, recovery time varies from person to person. Good hygiene, plenty of sleep and keeping your body hydrated will speed up your recovery. You need to give your body enough time to heal. Freshers’ flu shares similar symptoms and duration as a common cold, making it unpredictable and potentially severe.
Sometimes, if you don’t take enough precautions, things can get worse and you may experience severe flu-like symptoms such as high fever, difficulty breathing, etc. where you need medical help. So be aware of the symptoms.
Freshers flu is quite common in first-year students. The right care and patience will help you to recover quickly.
How to get over freshers flu quickly without over the counter medications?
I understand if you are wondering how to get over freshers flu quickly. You do not want to miss out on the excitement of the first few weeks at university. But it is important to take care of your body and get enough rest. You need to take a break from classes and other excitement and give your body a proper rest as this will help it to recover quickly. Additionally, looking after your mental health during this time is crucial to ensure a holistic recovery.
Healthy eating also plays an important role in recovery. I would advise you to include lots of fruit and vegetables in your diet during the first few weeks of university. And don’t go for junk food during this time. Adding different fruit juices, herbal teas or broths will help you stay hydrated. This will also help to thin your mucus so that you can get better quickly.
Home-made remedies can also help. Honey with lemon water is the first thing to try when you have a sore throat. Steam inhalation with eucalyptus oil or gargling with salt water are other natural ways to soothe your throat.
If you decide to take medication, make sure you follow a doctor’s advice. And remember to stick to the dosage for a quick recovery.
Simple steps such as resting with your head on an extra pillow to help you breathe are a good idea. You may feel like you need to exert your body at times but avoid this for a faster recovery. Combine these strategies and you’ll be on the fast track to feeling better. It is also important to prevent and manage other infectious diseases by following good hygiene practices, staying hydrated, getting enough rest, and eating a healthy diet.
What to Eat with Freshers Flu to alleviate common symptoms?
One weapon in the fight against freshers flu is your diet. Any unprocessed food that can boost your immune system is a good place to start. Foods rich in vitamins and minerals, such as spinach and kale, and citrus fruits, such as oranges, will help fight the infection.
Foods that are easy to digest are best at this time. Anything that can be steamed and is not oily will make you feel better. It is a good idea to check out some of Grandma’s hacks to recover from such a situation.
Oatmeal is a gentle option that’s easy on the stomach and can be dressed up with honey for added benefits.
Ginger tea can be particularly soothing if you have a sore throat or nausea. It’s known for its anti-inflammatory properties and can help calm your system. Herbal teas such as chamomile or peppermint can also provide relief and keep you hydrated.
For snacks, consider yoghurt with probiotics to support your gut health, and nuts and seeds for a protein and zinc boost. Bananas are another great option – they are easy to digest and provide a good source of energy.
Can you avoid the freshers flu?
Absolutely, you can take precautions to avoid freshers’ flu before your first day at university. It starts with good hygiene. Washing your hands often is a good habit. You may want to consider carrying a small hand sanitiser with you to class.
Freshers’ flu often coincides with the start of the annual flu season, as the influx of students from different locations can introduce new bacteria and viruses during this time.
I know you may feel very anxious and tense at this time. But everyone goes through this phase and stress management is very important in the first few weeks of university. Just relax, try to make some friends, talk to your new classmates and, if possible, hang out. You can go to the gym, do yoga or just meditate. Even just going for a walk is a good way to reduce stress.
As mentioned above, get some rest. Avoid late nights for the first few weeks at your new college. As a teenager, you should be able to get at least six to eight hours of sleep a night. Lack of sleep makes you susceptible to illness
A strong immune system is the best defence against freshers flu, and you need to develop it before you start college. Healthy habits, diet and hydration will help you achieve this. And with a little extra exercise, you can keep the freshers’ flu at bay.
Conclusion
Dealing with freshers flu is an important part of having a healthy and enjoyable college experience. I have covered some basic key points to help you understand freshers flu and tips on how to manage and avoid it
It’s OK to ask for help and seek medical advice if symptoms persist. Your health is a priority and taking proactive steps to look after yourself will pay off in the long run. The journey through college is full of exciting opportunities, and by staying informed and prepared, you can make the most of them without being sidelined by illness.
Now, I encourage you to share your own experiences and tips for dealing with freshers flu. Let others know what your experience was like and what you did to get through those tough times.
Disclaimer
This article offers general educational information and should not be taken as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for medical concerns, diagnoses, or treatments, especially for conditions like freshers Flu or student cold. We are not responsible for any actions taken based on this content.
