8 Common Mistakes to Avoid When You're Sick

Being sick is never fun, but sometimes we unintentionally make things worse. Whether it's pushing ourselves too hard or neglecting our health, certain habits can slow down recovery or even make symptoms worse. Here's a look at some of the most common mistakes to avoid when you're under the weather.

1. Drink Too Little

When you're sick, staying hydrated is crucial. Fluids help thin out mucus, making it easier to clear out congestion, and they prevent dehydration, which is common when you have a fever or other symptoms. The best sources of hydration include water, broths, ginger tea, and electrolyte-rich drinks like Pedialyte^®. Avoid sugary beverages and sodas. Instead, reach for 100% juice or warm drinks like honey and lemon tea to soothe your throat and help your body fight off the illness.

2. Skimp on Sleep

Getting enough sleep is essential for a healthy immune system, especially when you're fighting off an illness. Studies have shown that those who get less than seven hours of sleep are more susceptible to colds and other viruses. When you're sick, aim for extra rest. If nighttime symptoms keep you awake, try going to bed earlier or taking naps throughout the day. Your body heals while you sleep, so rest is one of the best remedies.

3. Push Through

It's tempting to act like you're not sick, but this approach can backfire. When you're sick, your body needs extra energy to fight off infections. Pushing through or pretending you're fine can lead to exhaustion and potentially make your symptoms worse. Listen to your body and allow yourself the time to rest and recover, even if that means taking a day or two off from work or school.

4. Let Stress Take Over

Stress doesn't just make you feel worse — it can also weaken your immune system, making it harder for your body to fight off illnesses. Over time, high levels of stress can suppress immune function, leading to more sick days. Try to manage your stress levels with relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or simply taking some time to do something you enjoy. Your immune system will thank you.

5. Eat Junk Food

When you're sick, your body needs nutritious food to help it recover. Avoid junk food, which can be hard to digest and offers little nutritional value. Foods high in fat, sugar, and processed carbohydrates can make you feel sluggish and may even prolong your illness. Instead, opt for nutrient-dense options like chicken soup, leafy greens, fruits rich in vitamin C, and yogurt, which will help your body recover faster.

6. Drink Alcohol

Alcohol is dehydrating and can make your symptoms worse, especially if you have a fever or are taking medication. It also weakens your immune system, making it harder for your body to recover. If you're sick, it's best to avoid alcohol until you're feeling better. Focus on staying hydrated with water, herbal teas, and other non-alcoholic beverages.

7. Smoke

Smoking is harmful at the best of times, but when you're sick, it can make your symptoms worse and lengthen the duration of your illness. Smoking damages the cells in your lungs, making it harder for your body to fight off infections. If you're a smoker, try to avoid smoking when you're sick, and steer clear of secondhand smoke as well.

8. Expose Others

One of the most important things you can do for others when sick is avoid exposing them to your illness. Stay home from work or school, and avoid close contact with people, especially those who may be more vulnerable to complications from illness. If you must go out, wear a mask and maintain physical distance from others. Remember, you can still be contagious even if you're feeling better, so take precautions for at least five days after your symptoms improve to avoid passing the illness on.

The Bottom Line

When you're sick, taking care of your body is the best way to recover quickly. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can help your body heal and prevent your symptoms from getting worse. Stay hydrated, rest up, eat well, and be mindful of others. Taking these steps will have you back on your feet in no time.

References: Are You Making Your Cold Worse? | 10 Foods to Eat When You Have the Flu and Foods to Avoid | Preventing Spread of Respiratory Viruses When You're Sick