Health Information

A concussion is a brain injury usually caused by a blow to the head, but in some cases may occur after an impact that causes shaking or a jolt to the head. Most often there is no loss of consciousness associated with the injury. Concussions have a variety of symptoms which may range from mild to debilitating and will present differently in each individual.

Symptoms
Symptoms can occur immediately or minutes/hours/days after injury. Most people recover from a first concussion in 7鈥�10 days.

Headache
Nausea/vomiting
Memory loss
Dizziness
Blurred or double vision
Confusion or behavior changes
Sensitivity to light and/or noise
Feeling sluggish or groggy
Difficulty concentrating

Testing

The Health Center uses a Concussion Assessment form to evaluate severity of symptoms in addition to physical examination of patients. The Health Center does not administer SCAT testing.
The Health Center can help facilitate referral to DAR for accommodations if appropriate.

Treatment

Ask someone to look after you for the first 24 hours. Notify your RD so they can check on you also. These people should watch for any new symptoms.
It is ok to sleep. You may ask the person looking after you to wake you up once or twice throughout the night. They should call 911 if you cannot fully wake up or you do not know where you are.
Rest your brain! Avoid things that need a lot of thought, focus or screen use 鈥� including TV, computers, video games, cell phones and driving. Get plenty of sleep.
Rest your body! Avoid heavy exertion exercises. Light aerobic exercise is okay if your symptoms do not become worse.
Seek out quiet environments if noise is increasing your symptoms.
No alcohol or any mind-altering substance (like marijuana) until you have fully recovered.
Treat the symptoms: Ibuprofen or Acetaminophen for headaches, Melatonin for sleeping problems.
Avoid a second brain injury. Do not participate in any activities that may lead to another blow or jolt to the head, as an additional brain injury can cause a much longer recovery time. This additional brain injury may also increase risk of future concussions and lead to cumulative brain injury.
If your symptoms persist beyond four weeks or start to worsen, follow up with your healthcare provider for ongoing medical treatment/care. You may benefit from a referral to rehabilitation therapies.

When to call 911

Cannot be fully woken up and/or acting very drowsy
Confusion, disorientation, irritability
Sudden and persistent change in behavior
Cannot walk normally
Difficulty speaking or slurred speech
One pupil is larger than the other
Seizures or convulsions
Severe weakness or cannot move arm, leg or one side of face
Repeated vomiting

A cough is a vital protective reflex that helps keep the throat and airways clear of irritants, mucus and germs. Coughs tend to resolve on their own within 14 days, although some may last 3鈥�4 weeks. A cough is usually caused by a virus and can often be treated without a visit to a medical provider.

Bronchitus

Acute bronchitis, or chest cold, is a condition that occurs when the bronchial tubes in the lungs become inflamed. The bronchial tubes swell and produce mucus, which causes a person to cough. This often occurs during/after a viral infection such as the common cold. Most cases of bronchitis are caused by a virus, and antibiotics are not effective against viruses. Typically symptoms of acute bronchitis (chest pain, shortness of breath, etc.) last for up to 2 weeks, but the cough can last up to 8 weeks in some people.

Symptoms

Cough 鈥� mucus may be clear, yellow or green
Soreness in chest
Fatigue
Mild headache, body aches
Low-grade fever
Sore throat
Watery eyes

Treatment

Increase fluids such as water, juices or hot teas. Avoid alcohol and caffeine.
Rest more! Class and homework first 鈥� other activities can wait until you feel better.
Use a vaporizer or humidifier at night. Elevate your head with an extra pillow or two.
Cough expectorants like Mucinex DM or Robitussin DM. If you take medication for anxiety or depression, check with a medical professional before taking cough medication, as it may be contraindicated.
Ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help with fever, aches or rib pain.

Pneumonia

Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs. People may get pneumonia after they have had influenza or an upper respiratory infection like a cold. When pneumonia is caused by bacteria, the person tends to become sick quickly and may develop a high fever and more difficulty with breathing. When pneumonia is caused by a virus, symptoms generally appear more gradually and may be less severe.

Symptoms

Fever
Cough
Difficulty breathing
Sharp or stabbing chest pain
Low appetite
Fatigue
Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
Rapid heart rate and breathing rate

Treatment

Antibiotics
Expectorant such as Mucinex or Mucinex DM
Lots of rest
Fluids to prevent dehydration due to fever
Ibuprofen or acetaminophen for fever and aches
Humidifier or vaporizer will increase the moisture in the air and soothe irritated lungs

Limit Spread to Others

Wash hands frequently
Cover coughs and sneezes with the crook of your elbow
Wear a mask
With pneumonia, you are much less contagious once you have been on antibiotics for 24鈥�48 hours
You may return to normal activities once your temperature is below 100.5掳 F for 24 hours, without the use of fever reducing medications, and your symptoms are well controlled

When to Seek Medical Care

Cough that does not improve after 10 days or lasts longer than 20 days.
Fever (100.5掳 F or higher)
Shortness of breath or wheezing
Cough that worsens, accompanied by new fever and new discolored mucus production (may indicate a developing pneumonia).
Chest pain
Coughing up blood (more than streaks in mucus)
Cough accompanied by unexplained weight loss

College life, while exciting, can also bring significant stressors that contribute to anxiety and depression among students. Adjusting to a new environment, managing academic pressures, financial concerns, and navigating social relationships can be overwhelming. Research indicates that mental health challenges are prevalent in college populations, with many students experiencing symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Anxiety

It鈥檚 true that anxiety is a normal part of life. We all experience feelings of worry, nervousness or unease in response to stressful situations like exams, job interviews or important decisions. This type of anxiety is often temporary and can even be helpful, motivating us to prepare and perform well.

However, when anxiety is persistent, severe, causes physical symptoms or interferes with daily life, it may indicate an anxiety disorder. Symptoms can manifest as:

Excessive worry
Feeling restless, on edge or irritable
Difficulty concentrating
Sleep disturbances
Physical symptoms such as headaches, nausea, rapid heart rate
Avoidance of social situations or performance-related tasks

Depression

Depression goes beyond typical feelings of sadness related to difficult situations. It may cause prolonged sadness and feelings of hopelessness, and can warp how individuals see themselves, their future and the world around them. Symptoms may include:

Persistent sadness, emptiness or hopelessness
Changes in appetite or weight
Fatigue or low energy
Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
Apathy, disinterest, feeling numb
Difficulty sleeping or excessive sleeping
Thoughts of death or suicide

Screening for Anxiety and Depression
Identifying and obtaining support and treatment for depression and anxiety is crucial for college students. These conditions can significantly impact academic performance, social relationships, and overall well-being. Early intervention can prevent long-term negative effects and help students thrive during their college years and beyond.

Anxiety and depression screening tools can serve as an important first step in connecting college students with the support and treatment they may need. These screenings help students assess their symptoms. While not diagnostic, they can indicate whether a student would benefit from a more comprehensive evaluation by a professional.

Treatment Options
Anxiety and depression are both highly treatable, and a range of effective treatments are available. These often include a combination of counseling and, when appropriate, medication. In addition to professional treatment, self-care also plays a crucial role in symptom management.

Therapy/Counseling 鈥� Talking with a mental health professional can provide students with coping strategies, help them understand the underlying causes of their distress, and develop healthier thought patterns and behaviors. Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) offers individual and group therapy sessions at no cost to students
Medication 鈥� For some students, medication such as antidepressants or anti-anxiety drugs can be an effective part of their treatment plan. The Health Center providers can discuss different medication options, and many of the medications are available at the Health Center for easy access.

Self-Care and Coping Strategies

Prioritize Sleep: Aim for 7鈥�9 hours of sleep per night
Healthy Diet: Eating nutritious foods can impact mood and energy levels
Regular Exercise: Physical activity has been shown to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression
Mindfulness, Prayer and Relaxation Techniques: Practices like meditation, prayer, deep breathing and yoga can help manage stress
Social Connection: Building and maintaining supportive relationships can combat loneliness and provide emotional support
Hobbies and Interests: Engaging in enjoyable activities can improve mood and provide a sense of purpose
Time Management and Organization: Creating study plans and managing time effectively can reduce academic stress
Avoid Substance Use: Alcohol and drugs can worsen symptoms of anxiety and depression

Campus Resources

Counseling & Psychological Services (CAPS)
Bultman Student Center
272 Columbia Avenue, Suite 203
Holland, MI 49423
616.395.7945

After-Hours Crisis Service
When the CAPS office is not open, a crisis on-call service is available for students who are in significant distress, especially those who are concerned about the potential of harming themselves or someone else. To access the on-call service, call the CAPS number (616.395.7945). In the case of an emergency in which an individual鈥檚 safety has already been compromised, call 911.

Mononucleosis is an infectious illness usually caused by the Epstein-Bar Virus (EBV). Almost everyone will be exposed to EBV in their lifetime, although not everyone will have typical Mono symptoms. This exposure (with or without symptoms) provides immunity and protection, and typically people get Mono only once. The virus is spread through contact with infected saliva (kissing, sharing drinks/utensils, uncovered sneezing/coughing). And while it is contagious, you鈥檙e less likely to catch mono than other illnesses like a common cold.

Symptoms
Symptoms typically develop 4鈥�6 weeks after exposure. Most people begin to improve within 1鈥�2 weeks, however it may take several weeks to fully recover normal stamina.

Chills, fever
Swollen lymph nodes
Muscle aches
Severe fatigue
Sore throat
Headache
Spleen enlargement
Jaundice
Upper abdominal pain

Diagnosis

Mono Spot 鈥� a blood test obtained by a finger poke. This test is most accurate when symptoms have been present for at least 5鈥�7 days (testing too soon can result in false negatives). Results take about 10 minutes.
In some cases the provider will order other more specific blood tests to confirm the diagnosis. These tests are obtained by a venous blood draw and are sent to the laboratory for analysis, so result times vary.

Treatment

There is no specific treatment for infectious mononucleosis, other than treating the symptoms.
Listen to your body and rest more. Rest is the key to recovery! Save your energy for class and homework. Other activities can wait until you have recovered.
Ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help with fever, pain and swelling.
For sore throat: throat lozenges, popsicles/ice chips, gargle with warm salt water, hot tea with honey, push fluids!
Avoid alcohol due to possible liver involvement.
Avoid contact sports or heavy lifting for at least one month. If you are an athlete, you should have clearance from the physician before returning to play.

How long is Mono contagious?

The EBV can stay in your saliva for months after you鈥檙e infected, so even if you don鈥檛 have symptoms or feel sick, you may still be able to spread it.
Do not allow others to come in contact with your saliva! Cover your cough.
Mono is transmitted through saliva, so casual contact (like a roommate, friend, classmate) does not significantly increase the risk of illness.
You may return to normal activities if your temperature is below 100.5掳 F, without the use of fever reducing medication, and your symptoms have improved.

When to Seek Medical Care

If you have symptoms of mono
If you have a mono diagnosis and your symptoms worsen

Available for pick up at the Health Center 鈥� no appointment needed! Medications (or generic equivalent) are at a reduced cost and will be charged to your student account.

Cough/Cold

Mucinex, Mucinex D (decongestant) or Mucinex DM (cough)
Sudafed
Afrin
Saline rinse kits
Saline nasal spray
Flonase
Nighttime Cold & Flu
Sore throat spray

Pain/Fever

Ibuprofen
Acetaminophen
Naprosyn
Voltaren

Gastrointestinal

Pepto Bismol
Loperamide
Docusate sodium
Pepcid
Prilosec
Miralax
Oral hydration packets

Eye/Ear

Visine allergy
Artificial tears
Ear wax removal kit

Gynecology

Miconazole 7

Allergy

Benadryl
Zyrtec
Flonase

Topicals

Athlete鈥檚 Foot cream
Hydrocortisone cream

Natural

Acidophilus
Vitamin D3
Vitamin B12
Iron + Vitamin C
EZC Pack + D Immune Support (Echinacea, Zinc, Vitamin C, Vitamin D)
Melatonin

Over-the-counter Influenza A/B + Covid tests

Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the tissue that lines the inside of the eyelid and the white part of the eyeball. When conjunctivitis is caused by a viral or bacterial infection, it can be both uncomfortable and contagious. Thankfully, conjunctivitis usually resolves without treatment and often does not require a medical visit.

Types of Conjunctivitis

Conjunctivitis can be viral, bacterial or allergic
Viral is most common 鈥� 80% of cases
Most cases go away on their own without treatment

	VIRAL	BACTERIAL	ALLERGIC
Eye Symptoms	Redness Morning eye crusting/drainage 鈥� not throughout the day Gritty feeling	Redness Thick yellow/green discharge that drains throughout the day 鈥� often recurs within minutes of wiping it away	Redness Itching Morning eye crusting/drainage 鈥� not throughout the day Gritty feeling
Other Symptoms	Cold symptoms 鈥� congestion, sore throat, cough, etc.	None Possibly cold symptoms	Other allergy symptoms 鈥� congestion, sneezing, cough, etc.
Contagious?	Yes 鈥� most contagious for first 3鈥�5 days of symptoms	Yes 鈥� through the first 24 hours of antibiotic drops	No
Treatment	None needed Artificial Tears or antihistamine/decongestant eye drops for irritation (over the counter)	Antibiotic drops/ointment	None needed Artificial Tears or antihistamine/decongestant eye drops for irritation (over the counter)

Self Care Measures

Warm (clean) washcloth/compress to wipe crusting from eyes
Cool compresses can help with discomfort
Stop using contacts until symptoms have resolved, then replace them with a new or sterilized pair
No eye makeup (obtain new makeup to prevent re-infection)
Wash towels, pillowcases, blankets in hot water and do not share

Limit Spread to Others

Conjunctivitis is usually contagious, but it should not prevent you from attending classes or other events (as long as you take the following precautions):

Avoid touching your eyes
Wash hands frequently with soap and water. Use hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
Use sanitizing wipes on commonly touched surfaces such as door knobs, cell phones, keyboard, mouse, steering wheel, appliances, etc.

When to Seek Medical Care

If you wear contact lenses
Moderate/severe eye pain
Blurred vision or sensitivity to light
Eye discharge continues throughout the day
Any worsening symptoms or no improvement in 3鈥�5 days

Sinusitis is an inflammation or swelling of the tissue lining the sinuses. When this lining gets irritated or infected, it swells and makes extra mucus, which causes symptoms. Most of the time, sinusitis is caused by a virus. Bacterial sinusitis occurs in only 0.5 to 2 percent of cases. Since antibiotics are only effective for bacterial infections, most people with sinusitis do not need antibiotics. Taking antibiotics when unnecessary can cause medication side effects and antibiotic resistance.

Symptoms

Headache
Facial tenderness
Pain in ears or teeth
Fever
Thick nasal discharge
Facial pain/pressure, often worse when bending forward
Congestion
Sore throat and cough from post-nasal drainage

Treatment

Increase fluids such as water, hot tea and juices. This thins the mucus and promotes sinus drainage.
Apply heat to the painful areas of the face. Use a washcloth soaked in hot water and breathe in the steam. Or stand in the shower and direct the hot spray on to your face.
Saline nasal rinses can help clear mucus and allow the sinuses to drain (saline rinse kits and saline mist are available at the Health Center 鈥� no appointment necessary!).
Mucinex can help to thin out mucus.
Menthol or eucalyptus lozenges.
Ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help with fever, pain and swelling
Oral decongestants (pseudoephedrine is most effective).
Afrin (oxymetazoline) use for a max of 3 days.
Nasal steroids (Flonase, Nasacort, etc.) reduce inflammation inside the nose within a few days of use. They are available at the Health Center 鈥� no appointment needed!
Occasionally, antibiotics are indicated

When to Seek Medical Care

Fever over 100.5掳
Severe headache, face or ear pain
Vision changes
Not improving within 10 days, or symptoms that start to improve but then worsen again
Redness or swelling around eye(s)
Emergency symptoms: confusion, seizure, unable to put chin to chest

The vast majority of sore throats (85鈥�90%) are caused by a virus and do not require antibiotics. Sore throats usually resolve on their own within a week. Upper Respiratory Infection symptoms (like congestion, cough, runny nose) often develop 2鈥�3 days after a sore throat begins. While most sore throats are not serious and do not require antibiotic treatment, it is important to know when to seek medical care.

Strep Throat

Strep Throat is a bacterial infection, which is treated with antibiotics. About 1/10 adults who seek medical care for sore throats have Strep. Symptoms include severe throat pain (some have described it like swallowing glass), fever over 100.4掳 F, swollen glands in neck, redness on roof of mouth, white patches on tonsils, headache and body aches. One important distinction between Strep and viral infections is that typically people with Strep do not also have other cold symptoms (like cough, runny nose, congestion or pink eye/itchy eyes).

Symptoms

Sore throat
Swollen lymph nodes (glands) in neck
Fever
Headache
Muscle aches
Hoarse voice
Often nasal congestion, runny nose, cough within 2鈥�3 days

Treatment

Rest
Tea with honey and lemon is a time-tested remedy
Gargle several times a day with warm salt water (陆 tsp salt in 1 cup water)
Drink cold liquids, suck on popsicles or ice chips
Throat lozenges/spray
Ibuprofen 400鈥�600 mg every 6 hours, or Acetaminophen 500鈥�1,000 mg every 8 hours
Antibiotics for Strep Throat

Limit the Spread

Wash hands frequently.
Cover cough and sneezes using the crook of your elbow.
Wear a mask.
Do not share drinks/utensils.
Avoid intimate contact.
If you have a fever, stay home and away from others.
You may return to class/work/normal activity once your temperature is below 100.5掳 F (without fever reducing medication) and your symptoms are well controlled.

*Strep throat is contagious until 24 hours after starting antibiotics.

When to Seek Medical Care

Fever over 100.5掳
Unable to swallow your saliva (spit)
Swelling of only one tonsil
No improvement in 3 days and absence of cold symptoms
Rash
Painful lumps in the back of your neck
Abdominal pain
Worsening of symptoms or no improvement in 7鈥�10 days.

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are caused by bacteria, viruses or parasites. STIs are usually spread during unprotected vaginal, oral or anal intercourse. However, infections like Herpes and Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) can be spread with any skin-to-skin contact. Chlamydia is the most common bacterial STI, and many of those who are infected have no symptoms. For this reason, anyone at risk for STIs should be screened 鈥� even if they feel healthy. It is also important to seek prompt testing for any STI symptoms.

Symptoms

Burning, itching, sores/bumps or discharge from the genitals
Pain with urination
Pain or bleeding from sex
Abnormal vaginal bleeding
Testicular pain/swelling
Abnormal vaginal odor

Testing

Most STIs are detected by testing urine, swabs of the affected areas, and/or blood.
Anyone who has STI symptoms or known exposure should seek prompt testing.
Screening guidelines vary by age and sexual habits. Your provider will collaborate with you to determine which specific tests you need.
Confidential STI testing is offered at the Health Center.

Treatment

Bacterial infections require antibiotics.
Antivirals might be indicated for viral infections.
Parasitic infections require antibiotics.
Finish the entire course of the medication 鈥� even if symptoms have resolved!
Continue to abstain from sexual activity for 1 week after medication is completed (to allow the medication to fully clear the infection and prevent reinfection/further transmission)
Inform any sexual partners of their STI exposure.

Prevention

Use a condom every time you have sex. This is the best way to keep your body and your partner鈥檚 body safe.
Be open with new partners regarding any history of STIs, other partners and previous STI testing. A great resource for having difficult conversations is
HPV vaccine 鈥� protects against the virus that causes genital warts and cervical cancer.
Hepatitis A or B vaccine
Valcyclovir (Valtrex) can help treat (not cure) Herpes infections and lowers the chances of transmission.

Nausea, vomiting and diarrhea caused by a viral infection is referred to as gastroenteritis. This illness is very contagious and typically resolves without medical intervention. Most people notice some improvement within 24 hours and are back to normal within 72 hours.

Symptoms

Nausea and/or vomiting
Diarrhea
Abdominal cramping
Fever
Headache
Muscle aches

Treatment

Do not eat or drink anything for one hour after the last episode of vomiting
To prevent dehydration, take small but frequent amounts of caffeine free clear liquids, popsicles, or ice chips. Liquid IV packets are available at the Health Center - no appointment needed.
No solid foods until vomiting has stopped for 12 hours
Imodium for diarrhea is available at the Health Center - no appointment needed
Acetaminophen (Tylenol) as needed for headache, body aches, fever.
Advance your diet slowly. Follow the Liquid to Light Diet guidelines.

Liquid to Light Diet

Day 1, the first 12 hours:
- Clear liquids (flat soda, clear broth, half-strength Gatorade, Jell-O, popsicles, water, apple juice, decaf tea with honey
  *small, frequent amounts
- No solid foods!
Day 2, or 12 hours after vomiting has stopped:
- Rice, bananas, soft cereals, plain pasta, crackers, strained clear soups, applesauce, toast with jelly
  *small, frequent amounts (陆 cup liquid, 2鈥�3 spoons of food per half hour)
Days 3 and 4:
Add cooked eggs, peanut butter, cooked vegetables, chicken or turkey. Avoid dairy, fried or spicy foods, acidic foods and red meat.
Days 5鈥�7:
- Return to regular diet!

Limit spread to others

Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after an episode of vomiting or diarrhea 鈥� hand sanitizer is not effective!
Wipe down toilets/sinks/door handles with bleach-containing wipes.
Do not go to class/work/activities until 24 hours after your symptoms have resolved.
Do not go to public eating places, including the college dining halls and restaurants 鈥� ask a friend to help!
Do not prepare other people鈥檚 food or beverages until you have been symptom-free for 72 hours.
Obtain a new toothbrush after symptoms have resolved to prevent re-infection.

Prevention

Wash hands with soap and water for 30 seconds before eating or preparing food or after using the bathroom (sing the ABC song!).
Work up a lather and cover all surfaces of your hands, fingers, finger webs and under nails. Rinse under running water.
Turn off the faucet with a paper towel or use your elbow if a power towel is not available.
If soap and water are not available, use of gel sanitizers is acceptable.
Avoid sharing silverware, drinks, cigarettes, etc.

Return to normal activities once you have been without symptoms of vomiting, diarrhea or nausea for 24 hours and your temperature is below 100.5掳 F (without the use of fever-reducing medication)

Seek medical care if you develop:

Symptoms of dehydration (no urination in 12 hours, dark urine, dizzy upon standing, increase in heart rate/breathing)
Fever over 100.5掳 along with abdominal pain
Worsening of any symptoms or no improvement in 48 hours
Blood visualized in vomit or stool
Unusual drowsiness, confusion or not acting like your normal self

Upper Respiratory Infections are usually caused by viruses, which means antibiotics will not cure them. Treatment is directed at managing the symptoms while your immune system fights the infection. URIs may take 10鈥�12 days to fully resolve, and coughs related to these conditions can last 3鈥�4 weeks. Use of over-the-counter medications will not speed up your healing, but it will help you tolerate the symptoms so that you can continue your activities of daily living.

Symptoms

Cough
Sore throat
Fever/chills
Congestion/runny nose
Headache
Body aches
Fatigue
Laryngitis
Post nasal drip

Treatment

Rest more! Class and homework come first. Other activities can wait until you feel better.
Over-the-counter medications are available for pickup at the Health Center 鈥� no appointment needed!
- Cough 鈥� Mucinex DM, Robitussin DM, or Mucinex, cough drops
- Sinus congestion 鈥� Mucinex D, Pseudoephedrine, Saline nasal rinses, Afrin (only use 2-3 days)
- Headache/sore throat/body aches 鈥� Acetaminophen (Tylenol) and/or Ibuprofen (Advil/Motrin)
If you take stimulant medications (ADHD) and/or have a history of significant anxiety/depression, check with a pharmacist/health care professional before using these decongestant or cough medicines.
Always check for ingredient overlap between different medications. For example, some cold medicines already contain acetaminophen.
Antiviral medications (Tamiflu for Influenza, Paxlovid for Covid) are recommended only for those with underlying medical conditions or at high risk for complications (those who are pregnant, immunocompromised, morbid obesity)
Increase fluids such as water and juice to help loosen secretions
Gargle with warm salt water to soothe the throat and clear drainage
Cold things like popsicles, ice chips to soothe the throat
Hot things like hot tea and/or soup to ease throat pain and loosen secretions
Breathe in moist steam to loosen mucus 鈥� cough it up and blow it out when loose!

Limit Spread to Others

Wash hands frequently
Cover coughs and sneezes using the crook of your elbow
Wear a mask

You may return to normal activities once your temperature is below 100.5掳 F for 24 hours, without the use of fever reducing medications, and your symptoms are well controlled

When to Seek Medical Care

Fever over 102掳 F for more than 3 days
Symptoms lasting more than 10 days
Symptoms rapidly becoming worse instead of gradually improving
Chest pain, shortness of breath/wheezing
Painful lumps in the back of your neck
Significant sore throat for more than a week
Unable to swallow liquids or open your mouth wide due to pain
Fever (100.5掳 or higher) for 5 or more days
Severe sinus pain
Severe headache and/or neck pain
Unusual drowsiness or confusion

A UTI is a common bacterial infection of the urinary system. Typically just the urethra (tube that urine comes out of) and the bladder are affected. Occasionally the infection can move into the kidneys, causing a more severe infection (pyelonephritis). The treatment for UTI is antibiotics.

Symptoms

Strong, persistent urge to urinate
Frequent urination, sometimes a small amount
Burning sensation or sharp pain with urination
Urine may be cloudy, smelly, blood-tinged or dark
Pelvic or lower abdominal pain in women
Fever
Nausea or vomiting
Mid back and side (flank) pain 鈥� typically on one side

Treatment

Antibiotics (finish the entire course even if feeling better!)
Push fluids 鈥� at least 90 ounces per day
Phenazopyridine hydrochloride (Pyridium, Azo) helps to decrease discomfort, but it does not kill bacteria and will not cure a UTI. It is best to delay this medication until after you see a provider and your urine is tested, since it turns urine orange and interferes with rapid urine testing. Also, the orange coloring may stain clothing and/or contact lenses.
Avoid caffeine, alcohol and spicy foods, which can irritate the bladder
Avoid sexual intercourse until your symptoms are gone

Prevention

When using the bathroom, wipe from front to back
Drink enough fluids to keep urine a pale yellow color
Avoid feminine products such as powders or douches
Urinate when you feel the urge
Urinate after any sexual activity

Vaginal infections are a common problem in women. Symptoms often overlap between conditions, and it can be difficult to know the underlying cause. For this reason, it is important to seek medical care to confirm vaginal infections before beginning treatment.

Yeast Infection

A yeast infection is an overgrowth of the Candida fungus

Symptoms

Itching of the vulva and around the vaginal opening
Irritation or soreness of vulva and around the vaginal opening
Reddened and swollen vulvar and vagina tissues
Pain with intercourse
Some women have no abnormal vaginal discharge; others have white and clumpy (curd-like) or watery discharge

Symptoms can mimic other conditions, including bacterial vaginosis (a bacterial infection of the vagina), trichomoniasis (a sexually transmitted infection) and dermatitis (irritated skin).

Treatment

Vaginal treatment 鈥� vaginal cream or tablet applied inside the vagina at bedtime with an applicator. One-, three- and seven-day treatments are equally effective.
Oral treatment 鈥� a prescription pill called fluconazole (brand name Diflucan). Most women only need one dose, but sometimes a second dose is needed three days after the first dose if symptoms persist.

Preventing Future Yeast Infections

During menstruation, change tampons, pads and panty liners often.
Avoid douching, vaginal sprays, special scrubs, scented soaps or scented tampons/pads
Wear cotton underwear (avoid silk or polyester)
Avoid wearing damp clothing for prolonged time (wet swimsuit, sweaty workout clothing, etc.)
Avoid tight-fitting pants
Consider sleeping without wearing underwear
Change your underwear often, especially on days that you have increased discharge (such as around ovulation)
Avoid taking antibiotics unless absolutely necessary 鈥� antibiotics kill the 鈥済ood鈥� bacteria which help keep yeast growth in check

When to Seek Medical Care

If you have signs/symptoms of a yeast infection

Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)

Bacterial vaginosis is an imbalance where 鈥渂ad鈥� bacteria overgrow and a decrease in the protective or 鈥済ood鈥� bacteria.

Symptoms

Classic symptom 鈥� vaginal discharge that is white and thin, with unpleasant or 鈥渇ishy鈥� odor
Vaginal burning
Vaginal itching
Symptoms are often more noticeable after sexual intercourse and during/after menstrual period

Treatment

Oral or vaginal antibiotics
Metronidazole or Clindamycin

Preventing Future BV Infections

Finish the entire course of treatment for BV, even if the symptoms resolve after a few doses.
Use condoms correctly and consistently for all types of sexual activity.
Your vagina is self-cleaning and douching can remove protective 鈥済ood鈥� bacteria. Only wash on the outside of your vulva with mild, unscented soap.
Avoid smoking
Consider hormonal birth control if you want to prevent pregnancy (some studies suggest that birth control pills containing estrogen and progestin reduces risk of recurrent BV).

When to seek Medical Care

If you have signs/symptoms of BV

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