As we all know, college is fast journey that is filled with many drawn-out papers, managing an active social life, last minute cram sessions for exams while attempting to remain as healthy as possible. Staying healthy is critical for college success.
“The number one thing I recommend to all college students is to wash their hands,” said Debbie Potter, William Peace University nurse.
“I encourage carrying hand sanitizer to and from classes because most germs come from hand to face contact, although it isn’t the end all be all. If you don’t eat anything else, it is crucial to eat your fruits and vegetables due to the antioxidants they are filled with. Getting a full 8-10 hours of sleep a night is also important for college students. As far as allergies go, keep all windows shut and do a nasal rinse to clear any pollen out of your nose,” said Potter.
According to the experts, being active not only helps college students maintain a healthy weight, it also helps keep stress away and aids in mental alertness.
Being healthy in college doesn’t have to be so difficult though. Let’s face it, cravings are at an all-time high when there’s pizza mixed in with a study group or just a night in with the girls. Loading up on water fights off dehydration and hunger. I think an easy habit to adapt is bringing a water bottle to class and around campus.
With a busy schedule, loud roommates, and a social life, it can be hard to know when to slow down and take a breather to focus on yourself. On the other hand, you want to get enough rest, but you don’t want your grades to suffer just because you are sick. The ending of flu season has brought on new territory for students to miss class.
Being sick happens to everyone, doctors are saying that our long winter is going to lead to a rough allergy season. “The cold weather actually makes it better for trees to pollinate,” agreed Dr. Timothy Mainardi of Hudson Allergy Tribeca.
Allergy season is springing into bloom and students should also be aware of their allergies in order to tackle the harsh symptoms of those dreadful sneezes. Students should make sure to take allergy medications as prescribed and start using them before symptoms begin to ensure they are in effect before the season gets worse.
Here are a few tips to help you beat spring allergies:
- Cool eye compresses may improve unwanted allergy symptoms
- Wear sunglasses to block pollen entry into your eye
- Exercise indoors on high-pollen days
- Avoid the following flowers and plants: Daisies, chrysanthemum, amaranthus, dahlia, sunflower, black-eyed Susan, zinnia, privet and lilac.
- Start your allergy treatment early
Enjoy the outdoors (and class) this spring by staying healthy and allergy free. Remember; don’t wait till it’s too late to visit the nurse on campus if any of these symptoms do arise! The nurse is located in the Joyner House which is right off of the main parking lot.