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Student Illnesses

Whether you are in your first or final year you are always vulnerable to illnesses and below are some of the more common illnesses in students that you need to be aware of. Before you start reading into some of these things and thinking its ok I’ll just see the doctor, please make sure you have registered with a doctor close to where you are living during term time. The University doctor is the best place to register and this can be done with the University. Just call 01225 875875 Monday-Friday 9am-4.30pm.

If for whatever reason you need to be away from University study through illness let your tutor know immediately and if it is going to affect your assessment deadlines ask your GP for a doctors note as proof to the University if they need to give you an extension on the deadline.

Freshers Flu

This virus can mean the end to your partying but more importantly affect the first weeks of your academic life as well. The ‘Freshers Flu’ generally comes around at the beginning of the academic year when you spend time getting to know as many people as possible. It doesn’t just affect hardcore party people but everyone who spends time in a student environment where students from many different places come together and the virus is mixed and multiplied through many different ways.

Poor diet, stress and lack of sleep, which most students will experience over the first week or so, are the types of things that the virus take advantage of as they weaken your immune system.

Likely Symptoms

Symptoms can include fever, shivering, headache, sneezing and a dry cough. A combination of these things could leave you in bed for a few days.

The cure?

Don’t worry this virus is not life threatening so don’t keep away from all the fun of Freshers Week. The best way to deal with it when you get it (and you probably will) is get plenty of rest, take a night off from partying, make sure you drink lots of water, fruit juice, smoothies etc. Take paracetamol for the headache and fever if you feel you need to but always read the label first. Try not to stress too much and make sure you take time to relax and this virus should be gone in around 4 – 5 days.

Meningitis

There are two types - viral and the more serious bacterial variety. The bacterial virus can develop rapidly, causing inflammation of the brain lining, and requires urgent medical attention. Children and young people are most at risk, which is why students should always be on the lookout for symptoms.

A stiff neck and severe headache should not be ignored, along with a dislike of bright lights, high temperature and vomiting. Also watch out for a rash that starts looking like tiny pinpricks and later turns to purple blotches. A meningitis rash will not fade when pressed (try using a glass tumbler against the skin).

The cure?

It is important that you see a doctor as soon as possible if you fall ill with a stiff neck and headache, especially if you have a temperature of have been vomiting. Look out for your flat/house mates as well, if they are ill and spending time in bed in a dark room this could be a sign of meningitis, encourage them to see a doctor and offer to go with them for support.

The majority of people who pick up the viral infection, which can take weeks to develop, tend to recover without treatment. Antibiotics can help to prevent the spread of some forms of bacterial meningitis. Either way, it's vital for a medical professional to identify what type it is at an early stage, and provide appropriate care.

Glandular Fever

Sometimes more commonly known as the 'kissing disease', this infectious virus can hit you anytime during your University life. It's passed on in saliva, and from coughs and sneezes, which makes it tailor-made for student life. If you've already suffered from it, you're immune from future infection.

Flu-like symptoms such as fever and headaches, are accompanied by sore throat and swollen tonsils, as well as swollen glands in the armpit and groin.

The Cure?

There is no treatment for the disease, just ways to help with the symptoms.  The first step is to see your doctor for a check up, blood test, and throat swab, and be sure to take lots of rest. Recovery tends to kick in after a week or so.

Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)

Don’t forget it is better to be safe than sorry. Not only do condoms provide protection against pregnancy they also protect again STI’s. Condoms are sold in both Students’ Union offices for only 10p or you can get them from your family planning clinic for free. For more information on the STI’s you want to avoid click on the link below for our guide to STI’s

 Guides To... STIs