HealthyLife Articles

Tag: Student Health Conditions

  • West Nile Virus

    General Health Conditions

    Mosquito bites cause West Nile virus if the mosquito is infected with it.

    Signs & Symptoms

    Most people who get the virus will have no symptoms. About 1 in 5 persons will get mild ones (West Nile fever). Symptoms usually occur 3 to 14 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito. See doctor for the following:

    *  Fever.

    *  Headache.

    *  Body aches.

    *  Skin rash on the trunk of the body (sometimes).

    *  Swollen lymph glands (sometimes).

    About 1 in 150 persons get symptoms of a severe infection (West Nile encephalitis or meningitis). Get Immediate Care for the following:

    *  High fever.

    *  Stiff neck.

    *  Severe headache.

    *  Muscle weakness.

    *  Tremors. Confusion.

    *  Convulsions.

    *  Decreasing level of consciousness.

    *  Paralysis.

    Prevention

    Protect yourself from mosquito bites. Stay indoors at peak mosquito biting times (dawn, dusk, and early evening). Apply an insect repellent with DEET to clothing and exposed skin to last long enough for the times you will be outdoors. Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants when you are outdoors.

    Resources

    Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

    www.cdc.gov

    Student Self-Care book by the American Institute for Preventive Medicine. www.HealthyLife.com. All rights reserved.

    © American Institute for Preventive Medicine

  • Stress At The College Level

    SUCCESS OVER STRESS

    Image of stressed college student reading a text book.

    The American College Health Association says that 30 percent of college students feel that stress hurts their academic success. Difficult classes, important exams, internships and jobs, and social events are just a few of the issues that can cause stress for young adults. Georgetown University offers these tips for stressed out students:

    *  Avoid alcohol, smoking, and other substances. They harm the body and make you feel worse in the long-term.

    *  Rely on your friends for support or take advantage of counseling services on campus.

    *  Minimize caffeine intake and make sleep a priority. Most college students need eight hours or more per night. Stick to a regular sleep schedule.

    *  Write in a journal.

    *  Find time for fun activities, such as exercise classes or campus events.

    © American Institute for Preventive Medicine