Health Services

Conditions and Symptoms

General Health Tips

The purpose of the information below is to give you guidelines by which to assess you injury or illness and begin treatment. When in doubt or when you have a question, please come in to the Health Center to be seen, or at least call us so that we are able to give you the best of care. Use these pages as a guide for self-health and also as a reference tool to know when to seek professional medical healthcare.

Health Factors That You Can Control

  • Don't smoke
  • Drop bad habits
  • Well-balanced diet
  • Regular exercise
  • Proper amount of rest
  • Limit alcohol use
  • Stress management
  • Avoid illegal drug use

Over-The-Counter Medications You May Need

  • Antibiotic ointment (Neosporin)
  • Band-aids
  • Cleansing solution (Hydrogen Peroxide)
  • Cough suppressant (Robitussin DM)
  • Decongestant (Sudafed - caution: high blood pressure)
  • Oral thermometer
  • Pain relievers (acetaminophen or ibuprofen)

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Abrasions / Cuts / Laceration

Definitions

  • Abrasion is an injury caused by scraping away a portion of the skin.
  • Cut or laceration is a jagged or clean break in the skin.

Self-Treatment

  • Wash with soap and warm water, then rinse with water to remove any debris
  • Hold clean clothe firmly over the wound until bleeding stops
  • Apply antibiotic ointment and clean, dry dressing
  • Change dressing and reapply antibiotic ointment daily. Change the dressing more often if it becomes wet or soiled.
  • Check tetanus immunization history (call the Health Center at 940-9385 if you are unsure of the date) If it has been longer that 5 years since your last booster, please have the wound checked at the Health Center for an assessment of need for a booster.

Health Center Visit Recommended

  • Bleeding cannot be controlled
  • Wound is deep and gaping
  • Foreign object is imbedded in the wound
  • If signs and symptoms of infection develop
    • Fever after 24 hours
    • Swelling, redness and warmth around the injury
    • Drainage of any pus
  • If you are unsure

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Allergies

Definition

Allergic rhinitis is an inflammation of the nasal mucosa resulting from sensitivity to an inhaled allergen. Allergies can be:

  • Seasonal (pollens)
  • Perennial (dust or mold)
  • Environmental (smoke or pets)

Symptoms

  • Sneezing
  • Nasal congestion
  • Watery nasal discharge
  • Nasal itching
  • Water, itchy eyes
  • Dry cough
  • Fatigue
  • Headache
  • Low-grade fever (temperature up to 100.5)

Self-Treatment

  • Nonprescription allergy medication (follow package instructions)
  • Sudafed (caution: high blood pressure)

Health Center Visit Recommended

  • No improvement within 72 hours after self-treatment
  • Temperature above 100.5 F develops
  • Discolored nasal discharge
  • Pain, tenderness or pressure around eyes
  • Cough producing discolored mucus
  • Fatigue due to the use of one of the above medications

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Bee Stings / Insect Bites

Definition

Stings and bites may cause a reaction from the toxic effects of the infected venom.

Symptoms

  • Stinger may be present at the bite site
  • There may be swelling and/or redness at the bite site
  • Minimum initial discomfort or burning or itching that may persist for 24 - 48 hours

Self-Treatment

  • Remove stinger by scraping with your fingernail. Do not use tweezers.
  • Apply ice to site, 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off. Repeat as needed
  • Keep area elevated
  • Take Benadryl 25 mg as directed on package. Benadryl is an antihistamine and will reduce redness, swelling and itching (caution: do not drive or operate heavy machinery if you take this medication. Side effect of drowsiness is possible)

Emergency Room Visit Recommended

  • Previous history of severe allergic reaction
  • Respiratory problems - shortness of breath or wheezing
  • Welts or hives develop on body
  • Facial or neck swelling develops

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Burns

Definition

A burn is an injury to the skin caused by friction, heat or chemical substance.

  • First degree - redness only
  • Second degree - blister formation
  • Third degree - charred or whitish appearance to skin, numbness

Self-Treatment

  1. First degree burn:
    • Immerse affected area in cold water for several minutes
    • Wash area gently with soap and water
    • Allow to heal naturally but protect from further injury
  2. Second degree burn:
    • Immerse affected area in cold water for several minutes
    • Wash area gently with soap
    • Cover burned area with antibiotic ointment and Telfa pad
    • Change dressing and apply ointment daily; change dressing more often if it becomes wet or soiled
    • Normal healing includes weeping and clear drainage from blisters
    • Check tetanus immunization history (call Health Center 317-940-9385 if there is a question. If longer than 5 years since your last booster, please have the burn checked at the Health Center)
  3. Third degree burn:
    • Contact the Health Center immediately or go to the nearest Emergency Room

Health Center Visit Recommended

  • Face, genitalia, hands or joints are burned
  • Signs and symptoms of infection develop
    • Fever over 101 F after 24 hours
    • Drainage becomes pus-filled
    • Increased redness, swelling, warmth to burned area
    • after 24 - 48 hours
  • If tetanus booster was more than 5 years ago

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Colds

Definition

A cold is a "viral infection." There is no known cure for a viral infection and antibiotics are not effective in treating it.

Symptoms (can last 7 - 10 days)

  • Scratchy or sore throat
  • Stuffy head
  • Runny nose with clear nasal drainage
  • Fever below 100.5 F
  • Cough, dry or with clear mucus
  • Fatigue
  • Headache
  • Achiness
  • Hoarseness

Self-Treatment

Do not treat with antibiotics

  • Drink plenty of water and juices to combat dehydration. Avoid alcohol.
  • Warm drinks such as tea with lemon or honey help drain sinuses and soothe throat irritation
  • Take steamy showers; inhale warm moist air which will also soothe in inflamed chest mucus membranes
  • Keep your room humidity high by using a cool mist vaporizer
  • Rest
  • Use disposable tissues
  • Wash hands frequently
  • Stop smoking

Treat The Symptoms

Your cold misery can be more bearable when controlling the symptoms.

Symptoms Treatment
Sneezing, stuffy head, runny nose Sudafed
Fever below 100.5 F, headache Acetaminophen, ibuprofen
Cough Robitussin DM
Sore throat or hoarseness Gargle with warm salt water,
Chloraseptic spray, hard

Health Center Visit Recommended

  • Fever is greater than 100.5 F for longer than 2 days
  • Pain, tenderness or pressure around eyes
  • Persistent nasal discharge for more than 5-7 days
  • White patches on back of throat or tonsils
  • Extremely red throat
  • Prolonged cough for more that 5-7 days
  • Painful breathing, wheezing, or shortness of breath
  • Chronic, unusual fatigue
  • Neck glands swollen

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Cold Sores / Canker Sores / Fever Blisters

Definitions

Cold sores are small painful sores that appear inside the mouth and upper lip. These can be caused by an infection of the herpes simplex virus or stress. They may last 4-10 days but are self-limited. Antibiotics are not effective. Flare-ups may be triggered by sun on the lips, cold, fever, food, allergy, mouth injury, anxiety or stress.

Self-Treatment

  • Abrevia ointment available over the counter.
  • Decrease stress.
  • Avoid hot or spicy foods.
  • Vitamin C may make a cold sore heal faster.
  • Nonprescription ointments such as Orajel.
  • Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of fluid. Use popsicles to replace fluids and numb ulcers.
  • Use a lip balm with sun screen to protect lips from sun.
  • Rinse mouth with water containing baking soda.
  • Take acetaminophen or ibuprofen for pain.

Health Center Visit Recommended

  • Within 24 hours, for prescription antiviral such as Valtrex
  • Sore that lasts 2 or more weeks should be examined by the doctor especially if it's not painful
  • White, painless sore that develops 1-13 weeks after oral sex
  • You have many sores
  • Pain cannot be controlled with self-treatment
  • You develop a fever
  • Infection develops on the lip
  • You suffer from immune system deficiencies (such as AIDS)
  • Recurrent cold sores

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Conjunctivitis / Pinkeye

Definition

Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, a mucous membrane that lines the inner surface of the eyelids. Conjunctivitis may be caused by bacteria, virus or allergies.

Symptoms

  • Red eyes
  • Itching or irritation around the eyes
  • Matted eyes in the morning
  • Discharge or excessive tearing
  • Swollen eyelids

Self-Treatment

  • Gently wash eyes with warm water and clean washcloth to free any discharge
  • Wash sheets, towels, washcloths and anything else that might have touched the eyes.
  • Be careful not to touch the infected eye and then touch the other eye.
  • Go to the health center

Prevention

  • Conjunctivitis is very contagious
  • Wash hands after touching the eyes
  • Do not wear contacts while eye is infected. Clean contacts well or discard

Health Center Visit Recommended

  • Any of the above symptoms occur
  • Intense eye pain
  • Visual disturbances such as blurred or double vision
  • Redness after leaving contacts in eye too long
  • Possible foreign object in eye

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Contraception

Definition

Contraception is a method(s) used to prevent pregnancy.

Non-Hormonal Methods

Abstinence - is defined as refraining from sexual intercourse to avoid pregnancy.

Advantages
The only way to prevent pregnancy
Total abstinence has the greatest likelihood of preventing sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)
Disadvantages
More difficult partner compliance
Note
Effectiveness vs. pregnancy - perfect
Effectiveness vs. STDs - excellent

Diaphragm and Cervical Cap - a flexible rubber barrier used by women with spermicidal creams or jellies.

Advantages
Medically safe
Disadvantages
Requires medical exam and periodic professional fitting
May cause vaginal and urinary tract infections
Must be used every time
Diaphragm can be messy
Note
Effectiveness vs. pregnancy - fair
Effectiveness vs. STDs - fair

Condoms - a protective covering that covers the erect penis and keeps semen from entering the vagina.

Advantages
Inexpensive, accessible and easily carried
Helps to prevent STDs, especially those carried by body fluids.
Disadvantages
Reduces sensitivity
Interruption of sexual activity
Breakage or leakage
Lack of protection for STD spread with skin contact
Note
Effectiveness vs. pregnancy - good
Effectiveness vs. STDs - good

Female Condoms - a sheath that lines the entire vagina and partially covers external genitals.

Advantages
No prescription needed
Disadvantages
Bulky and difficult to use
Expensive
Not readily available
Note
Effectiveness vs. pregnancy - fair
Effectiveness vs. STDs - fair

Hormonal Methods of Contraception

IUD - Hormonal Intrauterine Device - is a small device inserted in the uterus by a medical practitioner. It causes sperm immobilization and speeds ovum transport.

Advantages
It is always in place; no special planning or preparation needed before intercourse
Does not need daily attention
Is a good method in the case of a noncompliant patient
May be used when breastfeeding
Disadvantages
Must change every year
May have pain and heavy menstrual flow
Risk of pelvic infection, especially with insertion
Abortion and infection if pregnancy occurs
Initial expense is high
Note
Effectiveness vs. pregnancy - good
Effectiveness vs. STDs - none

Depo - Provera - this "shot" is taken every three months and contains only progesterone which suppresses ovulation.

Advantages
Extremely effective
Requires injection only 4 times a year, so there is a better compliance
Safe for women
Disadvantages
Irregular bleeding
May experience weight gain, bloating or breast tenderness
Decrease bone density, prolonged delay in return to ovulation
Side effects may remain for up to 3 months after injection
Long term lipid effects are unknown
Note
Effectiveness vs. pregnancy - excellent
Effectiveness vs. - STDs - none

Oral Contraceptive Pills - a pill that contains female hormones that suppress ovulation.

Advantages
Safe for most women
Menstrual periods may be less painful and more regular
Easy to use and doesn't interrupt intercourse
Disadvantages
Does not protect against any sexually transmitted diseases
Medical exam and prescription required
Must be taken daily
Need to be informed regarding side-effects
Note
Effectiveness vs. pregnancy - excellent
Effectiveness vs. STDs - none

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Diarrhea

Definition

Diarrhea is frequent, loose stools that do not contain blood, pus, or aren't greasy in character. Usually diarrhea can be cause by a virus, stress, poor diet, and change in water or antibiotic therapy.

Symptoms

  • Frequent loose or watery stools
  • Mild cramping and/or abdominal pain before bowel movement
  • Abdominal tenderness
  • Overactive bowel sounds
  • May have low-grade fever (99-100 F)

Self-Treatment

  • Do not eat dairy products or citrus fruits or juices, in order to rest active bowels
  • Clear liquid diet - drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration
    • First 12 hours - frequent sips of clear liquid (broth, gelatin, 7-up without carbonation)
    • Next 12 hours - (if diarrhea has stopped) add bananas, applesauce, soda crackers
    • Thereafter, add food as tolerated. Avoid caffeine in the form of colas, coffee, tea, chocolate, etc. Avoid fried, greasy foods.

Health Center Visit Recommended

  • No improvement within 24 hours after self-treatment
  • Temperature above 100.5 F
  • Blood or pus in stool
  • Abdominal pain and tenderness persist in the same area of abdomen
  • Diarrhea persists or recurs frequently
  • Recent foreign travel

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Fatigue

Definition

Fatigue is a subjective complaint of tiredness, weariness, or lack of energy. Not all fatigue in college students is due to mono. Other causes:

  • Inadequate sleep
  • Poor nutritional state
  • Stress
  • Depression
  • Pregnancy
  • Anemia
  • Allergies
  • Infections
  • Prolonged mental or physical activity
  • Alcohol
  • Hormonal disorders
  • Medication side effects

Self-Treatment

  • Rest - regular, quality sleep patterns
  • Avoid napping, as it interferes with nightly sleep patterns
  • Regularly scheduled healthy meals
  • Avoid late night snacking
  • Regular exercise - about 20-30 minutes a day but not within 2 hours of bedtime
  • Avoid caffeinated products
  • Avoid alcohol
  • Use a daily multivitamin
  • Avoid nicotine. Nicotine is a stronger sleep-preventer than caffeine
  • Stress reduction techniques

Health Center Visit Recommended

  • Fever or night sweats
  • Weight loss
  • Swollen lymph glands
  • Skin changes
  • Change in bowel habits
  • Abnormal bruising

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Flu / Influenza

Definition

Influenza or flu is a viral illness affecting the respiratory system. Antibiotic therapy is not effective for a viral illness.

Symptoms

  • Fever above 110.5 F. fevers can be as high as 104 F
  • Chills
  • Weakness and fatigue
  • Body aches and pains
  • Cough, dry or with clear mucus
  • Headache
  • Runny nose with clear drainage
  • Sore throat
  • Symptoms appear quickly, but usually begin to subside after 1-2 days. Complete recovery may take 7-10 days.

Self-Treatment

  • Drink plenty of water and juices to combat dehydration
  • Warm drinks such as tea with honey and lemon help drain sinuses and soothe and irritated throat
  • Acetaminophen or ibuprofen as needed. Check your temperature before taking either product
  • Get plenty of rest
  • Gargle with warm salt water
  • Use disposable tissues
  • Keep room humidity high by using a vaporizer
  • Take steamy showers, inhaling warm moist air will soothe inflamed nasal and chest mucous membranes
  • Do not smoke

Treat The Symptoms

Flu misery can be more bearable by controlling the symptoms

Symptoms Treatment
Sneezing, runny nose, stuffy head Sudafed (caution: high blood pressure)
Fever, body aches, headaches Acetaminophen, Ibuprofen
Cough Robitussin DM (no alcohol)
Sore throat, hoarseness Throat lozenges, warm salt water gargle, hard candy

Health Center Visit Recommended

  • Persistent elevated temperature, not relieved by medication
  • Painful breathing, wheezing or shortness of breath
  • Extremely red throat
  • Painful and swollen neck glands
  • Unusual fatigue, lasting more that 2 days.

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Headaches / Tension

Definition

A headache is head pain. Muscular tension from stress accounts for 80% of all headaches.

Self-Treatment

  • Acetaminophen, Ibuprofen
  • A warm compress to back of neck. Use ice if prone to migraine headaches
  • Take a break, relax, get some fresh air
  • Gentle massage of neck and shoulder muscles

Health Center Visit Recommended

  • Any headache that arrives with lightning speed and severity
  • Headache accompanied by
    • Vision problems
    • Mental confusion
    • Stiff neck and fever
    • Pain in eye, ear or one side of head
    • Nausea or vomiting

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Heat Related Problems

Heat Cramps

 

Definition

Painful muscle spasms which occur after vigorous exercise and profuse sweating.

Symptoms

  • Skeletal muscle cramping
  • Normal body temperature
  • Sweating

Self-Treatment

  • Rest briefly; cool down
  • Eat salty foods
  • Drink Gatorade or PowerAde

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Heat Exhaustion

Definition

Symptoms that occur after exposure to heat for many hours with profuse sweating and low fluid intake. The body's heat control mechanisms fail to regulate temperature. Health exhaustion is less dangerous than heat stroke.

Symptoms

  • Normal or slightly elevated body temperature
  • Rapid heartbeat
  • Low blood pressure
  • Lack of coordination
  • Pale appearance
  • Sweating
  • Cold, clammy skin
  • Nausea
  • Dizziness
  • Fatigue
  • Headache
  • Intense thirst
  • Low blood pressure
  • Sweating

Self-Treatment

  • Get the person out of the sun and into a shady spot or an air-conditioned location
  • Lay the person down with feet elevated
  • Loosen clothing
  • Give cold (not ice) water a salt beverage or Gatorade to drink
  • If no improvement, take to the emergency room

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Heat Stroke

Definition

Heat stroke is a life-threatening condition resulting from long extreme exposure to heat in which a person can't sweat enough to lower body temperature. Heat exhaustion can quickly progress to stroke.

Symptoms

  • Rapid heartbeat
  • Decreased sweating
  • Rapid, shallow breathing
  • Fainting
  • Exhaustion
  • Confusion
  • Disorientation

Treatment

  • This is a true medical emergency. Get help immediately. Heat stroke can cause permanent damage or death if not treated immediately
  • Move the person out of the sun
  • Sponge bathe the victim while waiting for the ambulance

Prevention

  • Stay out of the sun
  • Limit vigorous exercise during the hottest part of the day
  • Dress properly - light colored, light weight, loose-fitting clothing that breathes
  • Drink plenty of fluids
  • Avoid alcohol and caffeine
  • Avoid hot and heavy meals

Self-Treatment

  • Get the person out of the sun and into a shady spot or an air-conditioned location
  • Lay the person down with feet elevated
  • Loosen clothing
  • Give cold (not ice) water

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HIV

The student health center does not offer HIV testing.

Confidential Testing means that the results of the HIV test, like any other test result, will become a part of you student health record. The health record can be released by your written request or court order. If your test result is positive, it is required by Indiana law to report it to the State Board of Health.

The Student Health Center is concerned that you may forget that this information is contained in your health record. Often patients request that their medical records be released to prospective employers or insurance companies. This may not be in your best interest due to the discrimination that has been experienced by individuals who are HIV positive or in other cases those who are negative but have had the test.

Anonymous Testing for HIV antibody means no medical record is generated. Instead of identifying you by name and identification number is assigned to you. Only you know the results of your test and the State Board of Health is notified. Butler University does not offer anonymous testing.

Anonymous Testing Sites

Planned Parenthood
3219 N. Meridian Street
Indianapolis, Indiana
317-925-6747 317-221-8310

Bell Flower Clinic
1101 West 10th Street
Indianapolis, Indiana

Test Results - A positive test result does not diagnose AIDS; it detects the antibody to HIV. It does mean you are infected and can transmit the virus to your sex or needle sharing partners. If your result is negative, infection is still possible if you had unsafe sex or shared needles in the past 6 months. Also, does not mean immunity to the virus. Someone may have HIV but not yet develop enough antibodies for the test to measure. Testing less than 6 weeks after HIV exposure may fail to detect the HIV antibody. Retesting is not recommended unless there has been unsafe sex or needle sharing in the past 6 months.

Please feel free to ask us questions regarding HIV testing if they have not been answered. You may also contact the Indiana Stated Board of Health Hotline or the AIDS hotline.

Indiana State Board of Health Hotline
1 (800) 848-2437

AIDS Hotline
1 (800) 342-2437

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Ingrown Nail

Definition

Ingrown or Hang nail is a nail embedded in soft tissue that causes inflammation.

Symptoms

  • Painful toe or finger
  • Inflamed and swollen around the nail
  • Purulent drainage (containing pus) from the side of the affected nail

Self-Treatment

  • Warm soaks 3-4 times a day
  • Antibiotic ointment applied to the area 3-4 times a day
  • Acetaminophen or Ibuprofen for discomfort

Health Center Visit Recommended

  • No improvement after 2-3 days of self-treatment
  • Diabetics should be treated at the Health Center
  • Recurrence of symptoms after 1-2 attempts of self-treatment

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Insomnia

Definition

Insomnia is difficulty falling asleep staying asleep or awakening.

Symptoms

  • Excessive fatigue, especially in the afternoon
  • Difficulty concentrating in class
  • Agitation over the inability to sleep, stay asleep or go back to sleep

Self-Treatment

  • Relax, take a break when stressors mount
  • Limit amount of caffeine, alcohol and candy consumed in the evening
  • Do not indulge in a daytime nap
  • Engage in regular exercise, but no closer than 3 hours prior to bedtime
  • Observe regular bedtime and wake up hours
  • Avoid having dorm room too hot or too stuffy

Preventive Measures

  • Take a warm, leisurely bath or shower before bed
  • Listen to soothing music
  • Read something tranquil
  • Try gentle stretching exercises or deep breathing
  • Have a warm drink (decaffeinated) or a light bedtime snack. Often warm milk does help! Milk and cheese contain the amino acid, tryptophan, which aids sleep.

Health Center Visit Recommended

Symptoms persist for more than 5-7 days.

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Lice

Definition

Lice are tiny wingless insects that are spread from person to person. Body and head lice are spread by personal contact and by shared brushes, combs, hats and other personal items. Pubic lice (crabs), which infest in the genital area, are typically spread during sexual contact.

Symptoms

  • Intense itching on scalp or genital area
  • Swollen glands in back of neck or groin area
  • Adult insects or nits (eggs) found in hair
  • Tiny, dark brown specks on underwear or in pubic hair

Self-Treatment

  • Topical application of Nix or Rid is available without prescription. Read directions carefully.
  • Simultaneous treatment of sexual partners(s), household members, roommates
  • Clean all articles of clothing or bedding that have been used in the last 2 weeks
  • Watch and treat later infestation. Adult lice die after 24 hours without human contact. Any eggs left by the female will hatch within 2 weeks.

Health Center Required

  • Intense itching and unsure of cause
  • Scratching has caused a skin infection
  • Fever, swollen glands

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Mononucleosis

Definition

Mono is an illness that is caused by a virus. The most common is the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). From the time of exposure to demonstrating the disease symptoms is between 30-50 days.

Symptoms

  • Fever especially high at nighttime
  • Severe sore throat
  • Swollen lymph nodes around neck, jaw, groin
  • Nausea
  • Loss of appetite
  • Occasionally widespread rash
  • Abdominal pain (occasionally)
  • Fatigue

Self-Treatment

  • Monitor your temperature and treat with acetaminophen (do not use Ibuprofen or aspirin)
  • Drink plenty of water and juices to prevent dehydration
  • Eat a well balanced diet - it may be necessary to eat soft food or drink high calorie beverages or food.
  • Rest - take an afternoon nap until it begins to interfere with your nighttime sleep then drop the nap
  • Avoid sharing eating utensils or sharing beverages from the same bottle or glass
  • Avoid injury to the abdomen. No contact sports.
  • No alcohol

Treat The Symptoms

Symptoms Treatment
Sneezing, runny nose, stuffy head Sudafed
Fever Acetaminophen
Sore throat Throat lozenges
Hoarseness Warm salt water gargle or hard candy

Health Center Visit Recommended

  • You suspect you might have mono
  • Sore throat persists - mono may be complicated by strep
  • Persistent fever greater than 102 F not relieved by medication
  • Sudden onset of abdominal pain
  • Inability to eat or drink
  • Weakness that becomes progressively worse

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Nausea / Vomiting

Definition

Nausea is an unpleasant feeling in the abdomen ("upset stomach") that often ends with vomiting. Vomiting is a forceful expulsion of stomach contents through the mouth. Nausea and vomiting may be caused by:

  • Infection
  • Stomach irritation (e.g., drugs, ibuprofen)
  • Alcohol and binge drinking
  • Medications (e.g., antibiotics, codeine)
  • Pregnancy
  • Stress
  • Improper diet (e.g., spicy or fatty foods)
  • Food poisoning
  • Motion sickness
  • Eating disorders
  • Head injury
  • Lactose intolerance

Self-Treatment

  • For nausea only, you may try Tums, Rolaids, Mylanta
  • First 6 hours after nausea and/or vomiting, give the stomach a rest. Start with ice chips or small sips of water.
  • First 24 hours: Gradually add clear liquids. A sip or two every 10-20 minutes is a good way to start. Try water, flat 7-Up. Gatorade, clear broth, Jell-o. If nausea or vomiting recurs, reduce to smaller amounts or take nothing by mouth for 30 minutes.
  • Second 24 hours: Add easily digested foods. Try plain pasta, rice, saltines, dry toast, banana, applesauce, broth-based soups.
  • Third day: Progress to "regular" food. Avoid all dairy products, spicy or fried foods, red meat and fruit juices until other foods are well tolerated. Also avoid caffeine products because of their dehydrating effects.

Health Center Visit Recommended

  • Prolonged or severe vomiting
  • Inability to keep fluids down
  • Fever not relieved by acetaminophen or ibuprofen
  • Localized abdominal pain
  • Vomiting blood

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Nosebleeds

Definition

Nosebleeds are common in young adults, beginning just inside the nose. More often they are a nuisance and not a true medical problem.

Self-Treatment

  • Sit or stand up. By remaining upright, you reduce the blood pressure in your nose.
  • Apply pressure. Pinch your nose with your thumb and index finger while you breathe through your mouth. Squeeze together the soft portion of your nose between the end of the nose and the hard, bony ridge. Continue to apply pressure for 5-10 minutes.
  • Don't apply ice
  • To prevent rebleeding, do not blow your nose for several hours after bleeding has stopped.
  • Increase the humidity in your room. A vaporizer or humidifier can help keep your nasal membranes moist. Lubricating your nose with Vaseline also helps.

Health Center Visit Recommended

  • The bleeding continues for more than 15-30 minutes
  • Your feel faint or weak from blood loss
  • The bleeding is rapid
  • The amount of blood loss is great
  • Bleeding begins by trickling down the back of your throat

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Poison Ivy

Definition

Poison ivy is a rash resulting from contact with poison ivy/oak irritation or inflammation of the skin. The reaction can range from itching to sever discomfort and blistering in the affected areas.

Symptoms

  • Red, raised rash with or without blisters
  • Itching, sometimes severe

Self-Treatment

  • Benadryl 25 mg for itching (DO NOT DRIVE A CAR)
  • Calamine or aveeno lotion
  • Cool bath/compresses

Health Center Visit Recommended

  • Failure to respond to self-treatment
  • Eye or mucous membrane involvement

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Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STD)

Definition

A sexually transmitted disease that can be transmitted by sexual contact (including vaginal and anal intercourse and oral-genital contact) with an infected partner who may or may not have symptoms.

Symptoms

  • Increased watery or discolored discharge from penis or vagina
  • Pink or reddish warts on or in the genitals
  • Painful urination
  • Painful, itchy sores around genitals
  • Itching or soreness of penis or vagina
  • Some men and most women have no noticeable symptoms

Self-Treatment

NONE

Health Center Visit Recommended

  • If you experience any of the symptoms above
  • If you suspect you may have contracted sexually transmitted disease or been exposed to an STD

Protection

  • Abstinence
  • Communication
  • Condom or dental dam, when used properly can help to prevent the transmission of STD's
  • Spermicidal with nonoxynol-9 also helps prevent contracting a STD
  • Combination of the above 2 methods is even better

Common Sexually Transmitted Diseases

  • Chlamydia
  • Gonorrhea
  • Trichomonas
  • Genital warts (human papilloma virus)
  • Syphilis
  • Genital herpes (remember oral herpes can be transmitted to the genital area by oral-genital contact)
  • HIV/AIDS
  • Hepatitis B or C

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Sore Throat (Pharyngitis)

Definition

Sore throat is an inflammation of the mucous membranes of the throat caused by a virus. Antibiotic therapy is not effective for viral sore throats.

Symptoms

  • Sore throat
  • Fever over 100.5 F
  • Fatigue
  • Difficulty swallowing, nasal congestion, and cough
  • White patches on tonsils
  • Painful neck glands, hoarseness

Self-Treatment

  • Acetaminophen or Ibuprofen
  • Sudafed for congestion
  • Chloraseptic spray or lozenges, hard candy
  • Warm salt water gargles
  • Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration
  • Get plenty of rest
  • Steamy shower to help relieve congestion; warm mist inhalation
  • Limit talking or singing if hoarseness is present. Even whispering or mouthing words inflames the vocal cords

Health Service Recommended

  • Symptoms are not relieved by over-the-counter medications in 2-3 days
  • Fever above 100.5 F persists for 48 hours
  • Extreme difficulty in swallowing
  • White patches on the back of the throat
  • Painful, swollen neck glands

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Sprains / Strains / Orthopedic Injuries

Definition

  • A sprain is an injury caused by the twisting or wrenching of a joint.
  • A strain is an injury caused by stretching the tendons or overusing muscles.
  • An orthopedic injury is an injury to a joint or bony structure

Self - Treatment = RICE

  • Rest the injured extremity or injured part of the body
  • Ice packs or cold compresses should be applied for several hours. Prevent freezing the skin by placing a cloth between the ice pack and the injured area. Apply ice no longer that 20 minutes every 1-2 hours
  • Compression and comfort are obtained by use of an ace wrap
  • Elevate the injured area to reduce swelling. Elevation above the level of the heart is most effective
  • Acetaminophen or ibuprofen for pain and reduction of swelling
  • Obtain crutches from the Health Center is necessary

Health Center Visit Recommended

  • Injured area assumes an unusual angle; however the distortion may be due to the swelling
  • Severe pain or swelling persists for longer that 24 hours
  • Further evaluation is necessary for safe athletic competition

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Stress

Definition

Stress is your physical, emotional and mental response to change, regardless of whether the change is food or bad.

Symptoms

  • Problems eating or sleeping
  • Increased use of alcohol
  • Increased boredom or fatigue
  • Problems making decisions
  • Anxiety and confusion over unimportant events
  • Inability to concentrate
  • Nightmares
  • Frequent headaches, backaches or muscle aches
  • Frequent indigestion, diarrhea, or urination
  • Persistent hostile or angry feelings

Self-Treatment

  • Relax where you are when stress mounts. Close your eyes and visualize yourself in a clam, peaceful setting.
  • Take a break - get some fresh air or exercise
  • Prioritize your activities; list all of the things you need to do right away. The rest can wait until tomorrow.

Preventive Measures

  • Be realistic - set practical goals for yourself
  • Limit changes - allow an adjustment period for each change
  • Talk over problems with the people involved before tensions build
  • Organize your workload
  • Learn to relax - set aside time each day just for yourself
  • Exercise regularly
  • Seek counseling at the Counseling and Consultation Center (940-9385). Many "learned" responses can be changed, feelings dealt with, and insight gained.

Health Service Recommended

  • You feel growing need for food, tobacco, alcohol, tranquilizers, sleeping pills or other drugs
  • Your behavior puts you at risk to yourself and others
  • Your are thinking of harming yourself
  • Friends keep telling you that you are out of control or stressed out

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Stye

Definition

A stye is a localized inflammatory swelling of a gland in the upper or lower eyelid.

Symptoms

  • May have localized redness and swelling of eyelid
  • Is usually painful and tender to touch

Self-Treatment

  • Apply warm compress to affected eyelid for 10 - 15 minutes 4 times a day. This treatment helps relieve pain and inflammation and promotes drainage of the abscess.
  • Acetaminophen or Ibuprofen for discomfort

Health Center Visit Recommended

  • Self - treatment not effective
  • Notice excessive tearing, redness of white part of eye or eyelashes become crusted/matted together.

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Sunburn

Definition

Excessive sun exposure which leads to pain, redness, swelling, blisters, headache, and occasionally fatigue and fever.

Self-Treatment

  • Take cool bath or shower
  • Leave water blisters intact to speed healing and avoid infection
  • If blisters break, an antibacterial ointment can be applied
  • Use over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen
  • Apply sunburn lotions with aloe. Avoid those with anesthetics.
  • Avoid additional sun exposure until well-healed

Prevention

  • Avoid sun exposure during peak hours of 10 am - 3 pm
  • Use sunscreen with SPF at least 15
  • Protect your eyes with sunglasses that block at least 95% of UV radiation.

Health Center Visit Recommended

  • Your sunburn is severe
  • Blisters break and infection occurs (redness, swelling, red streaks)
  • Rash, itching or fever develops

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Swimmer's Ear

Definition

This is an infection in the outer ear canal. It can cause persistent moisture in the ear. Some causes are swimming in polluted water, scraping your ear canal when cleaning your ear or sensitivity to hair sprays or hair dyes.

Symptoms

  • Ear pain
  • Itching
  • Redness in the ear canal
  • Temporary hearing loss
  • Clear drainage
  • Occasionally drainage of yellow-green pus

Self-Treatment

  • Use a pain medication such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen
  • Don't clean the inside of your ear canal
  • Try to keep the ear canal dry. Swimmers often use over-the-counter ear drops to help repel water
  • Avoid irritating substances to your ear

Health Center Visit Recommended

  • Severe pain
  • Ear swelling
  • Fever
  • Drainage from the ear

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Tinnitus (Ringing in your ears)

Definition

A ringing or buzzing in your ear when no other sounds are present. This may be caused by ear wax, foreign object, and infection, exposure to loud noises or large amounts of caffeine.

Self-Treatment

  • Avoid caffeine, nicotine and alcohol which may aggravate the condition
  • Try to determine the cause (such as exposure to loud music) and avoid it
  • Wear ear plus or ear protection when working with loud noises
  • Some people benefit by covering up the ringing sound with another acceptable sound, such as music or radio when falling asleep

Health Center Visit Recommended

  • The ringing worsens
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Dizziness
  • Hearing loss

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Upper Respiratory Infections

Definition

A URI is any type of infection of the head and chest that is caused by a virus. It can affect your nose, throat, sinuses and ears. It could also affect the tube that connects your middle ear and throat, and your windpipe, voice box and airways. Over 200 viruses can cause URIs. The infection is spread when viruses are passed to others by sneezing, coughing, or personal contact. You may also become infected by handling objects that were touched by someone with an URI. URIs usually last one to two weeks.

You are more likely to get a URI if:

  • You are emotionally or physically stressed.
  • You are tired.
  • You are not eating enough healthy food.
  • You are a smoker.
  • You are living or working in crowded conditions.

Symptoms

  • Scratchy or sore throat
  • Sneezing, runny nose, and nasal congestion
  • Cough
  • Watery eyes
  • Ear congestion
  • Slight fever (99 to 100ºF or 37.2 to 37.8ºC)
  • Fatigue
  • Headache
  • Loss of appetite

Self-Treatment

You usually start having URI symptoms one to three days after contact with a cold virus.  You can treat them with non-prescription medicines and other self-care items.

  • Drink lots of fluids (water, fruit juice, tea, clear soup broths and non-caffeinated carbonated beverages).
  • Inhale warm moist air. Use a humidifier, take showers or put a pan of water on your radiator.

If you have a slight fever, headache or muscle/joint aches, you may take any of these non-prescription medicines:

  • Acetaminophen 325 mg (take 2 every 4-6 hours, up to 12 total per 24 hours)
  • or Ibuprofen 200 mg (take 1 every 4-6 hours, up to 6 total per 24 hours)
  • or Naproxen Sodium 220 mg (take 1 every 8 hours, up to 3 total per 24 hours)

If your throat is sore, you may try:

  • sucking on throat lozenges or popsicles may be helpful.
  • gargling with salt water (use one teaspoon of salt in a large glass of warm water every four hours.)

If you have a stuffy nose:

  • Use a decongestant (e.g. Sudafed PE, Mucinex)
  • or, use saline nose drops to relieve nasal dryness
  • or, you can buy nose drops or make your own. To make a solution for nose drops, add one teaspoon of salt to a quart of water.

If you have a runny nose, use a mild antihistamine (e.g. Benadryl or Diphenhydramine)

If you have a cough, use a cough medication (e.g. Robitussin or the generic equivalent) or cough drops.
NOTE: Many over-the-counter non-prescription combination products (such as NyQuil, Comtrex, etc) have significant amounts of acetaminophen/ ibuprofen/ pseudoephedrine in them. Please do not take additional amounts of these medications when you use a combination product.

Preventive Measures

  • Turn away from others and use tissues when you cough or sneeze.
  • Wash your hands (or use portable cleansers) after coughing, sneezing or blowing your nose.
  • Wash your hands before touching food, dishes, glasses, silverware or napkins or computer keyboards.
  • Use paper cups and paper towels in bathrooms.
  • Don't let your nose or mouth touch public telephones or drinking fountains.
  • Don't share food or eating utensils with others.
  • Avoid close contact with others for the first two to four days.
  • Keep your hands away from your nose and mouth.
  • Eat healthy foods, especially fruits with vitamin C, such as oranges.
  • Get plenty of rest.
  • Do not smoke.
  • Wear a face mask if you have a cough.

Health Services Visit Recommended

  • Temperature of 102ºF (38.9ºC) or higher
  • shaking chills
  • Difficulty breathing/wheezing
  • Chest pain
  • Skin rash
  • Worsening sore throat
  • White or yellow spots on your tonsils or throat
  • A cough that gets worse or becomes painful
  • Severe headache
  • Mental confusion
  • Blue or gray lips, skin or nails
  • Worsening earache

Your health care provider can evaluate whether your symptoms are due to a bacterial infection and determine whether you need antibiotics.

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Urinary Tract Infections - also known as cystitis

Definition

Urinary tract infection is an inflammation or infection of the urinary bladder usually caused by bacteria.

Symptoms

  • Constant desire to urinate even within seconds or minutes after having done so
  • A feeling or straining towards the end of urinating
  • A feeling of incomplete emptying of the bladder
  • Pain or burning with urination

Self-Treatment

NONE

Preventive Measures

  • Drinking plenty of clear liquids and cranberry juice
  • Good personal hygiene following urination and bowel movements. Cleaning self from front to back from vagina to anus.
  • Urinate frequently to wash out bacterial that may be present
  • Urinate after intercourse to wash out bacteria that may have been introduced into the urethra
  • Avoid wearing tight jeans, wet bathing suits, nylon panties and exercise clothing

Health Center Visit Recommended

  • Above symptoms occur
  • Fever
  • Low back or abdominal pain
  • Symptoms are not resolved following antibiotic treatment

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Vaginal Infections

Definition

Vaginal infections or vaginitis is an inflammation of the vagina caused by yeast, bacteria or a protozoan.

Symptoms

  • Abnormal vaginal discharge
  • Offensive vaginal odor
  • Vaginal itching or burning
  • Pain or irritation with urination and during intercourse
  • Some women may have no symptoms

Self-Treatment

Although over-the-counter medication is available, you may want to seek medical care at an Immediate Care Center or Planned Parenthood. The causes of vaginitis can be from yeast; however, sexually transmitted diseases may have similar symptoms.

Medical Services Recommended

  • Any of the above symptoms
  • Symptoms are not relieved by over-the-counter medication
  • Sexual partner has symptoms

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