I love how my life dictates what I write about. I’m on my 3rd infection this year. That will teach me to leave my bubble. Like how dare I try to resume life?
As a sepsis survivor, do you panic when you catch the flu, get a hangnail or touch dirty water? I sure do! So much so, I have my very own Triage at home. My PTSD brain remembers being sick & any sniffle or ache puts me on red alert.
So to not be a burden to an already taxed healthcare system, I have all these to assess my health to verify if I indeed should go to the ER.
Testing
In a perfect world, the COVID-19, RSV, & Flu test would be my pick, but it’s too rich for my blood. I can settle for the single COVID-19 Tests. These are available at most pharmacies for free, but if you’re in a pinch, you can order one here.
So, now that we’ve established your body is not in a cytokine storm, how do you care for yourself?
Stomach Discomfort
Diarrhea is nature’s way of getting rid of pathogens in the gastrointestinal tract, so let the body do its thing. If it’s too much and your doctor agrees, try some Imodium. I stay away from Pepto Bismol because its active ingredient makes your stool black. We don’t need another symptom to alarm us.
Hydration
If you have Diarrhea you are losing electrolytes. Replenish your body with MIO. I love Gatorade too, but I drink so much of it that it’s more environmentally friendly to recycle the tiny bottles.
Or if you prefer something more natural drink coconut water. Fun fact: coconut water was used in the South Pacific as an IV solution during WW2.
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Wet or Dry Cough
Again it’s best to let your body get rid of mucus through coughing. However, I’m experiencing a very raw throat that makes it hard to swallow and it hurts to cough.
A hot, steamy shower with a few drops of Eucalyptus Oil will also help decongest. This is especially helpful to those who are pregnant, infants & anyone else not wanting to take medications.
Best Defense
After all is said and done, the best defense for respiratory season is:
- Be up to date on your vaccinations and wear a mask!!!
- Washing your hands with soap and water, when possible, is paramount to staying healthy as hand sanitizers DO NOT eliminate Norovirus and C-Diff.
- Cover your mouth and nose in your sleeve when you sneeze or cough
- Stay home when ill and do not resume activities until you are feeling better
Lastly, please remember to be KIND! Not all disabilities are visible and me wearing a mask is not a judgment on you. I’m just doing what I have to do to SURVIVE!!!
Say Hi anytime!
