Common Illnesses
Learn about common health problems and when to seek care
This information is for learning only. Always contact your healthcare provider for medical advice and treatment.
Understanding Common Illnesses
Everyone gets sick sometimes. Knowing about common illnesses can help you understand your symptoms, take care of yourself, and know when to see a doctor. Most common illnesses are not serious and get better on their own with rest and self-care.
Common Cold
Symptoms
- • Runny or stuffy nose
- • Sneezing
- • Sore throat
- • Mild cough
- • Low-grade fever (sometimes)
- • Feeling tired
Self-Care
- • Get plenty of rest
- • Drink lots of fluids
- • Use a humidifier
- • Gargle with salt water
- • Take over-the-counter pain relievers
- • Stay home to avoid spreading germs
When to See a Doctor
- • Fever over 101.3°F (38.5°C)
- • Symptoms last more than 10 days
- • Severe headache or sinus pain
- • Difficulty breathing
- • Ear pain
- • Symptoms get worse instead of better
Flu (Influenza)
Symptoms
- • High fever (usually 100°F+)
- • Body aches and chills
- • Severe fatigue
- • Dry cough
- • Headache
- • Sore throat
Self-Care
- • Rest and sleep
- • Drink plenty of fluids
- • Take fever reducers as directed
- • Use a humidifier
- • Stay home until fever-free for 24 hours
- • Wash hands frequently
Prevention
- • Get annual flu vaccine
- • Wash hands often
- • Avoid touching face
- • Stay away from sick people
- • Clean and disinfect surfaces
- • Maintain healthy habits
Stomach Bug (Gastroenteritis)
Symptoms
- • Nausea and vomiting
- • Diarrhea
- • Stomach cramps
- • Low-grade fever
- • Headache
- • Muscle aches
Self-Care
- • Stay hydrated with small sips
- • Try clear liquids (broth, electrolyte drinks)
- • Eat bland foods when able (BRAT diet)
- • Rest
- • Avoid dairy and fatty foods
- • Wash hands frequently
When to See a Doctor
- • Signs of dehydration
- • Blood in vomit or stool
- • High fever (over 102°F)
- • Severe abdominal pain
- • Can't keep fluids down
- • Symptoms last more than 3 days
Other Common Conditions
Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)
Symptoms:
- • Burning when urinating
- • Frequent urination
- • Cloudy or strong-smelling urine
Care: See a doctor for antibiotics. Drink lots of water.
Strep Throat
Symptoms:
- • Severe sore throat
- • Fever
- • Red, swollen tonsils
Care: See a doctor for antibiotics. Rest and drink fluids.
Ear Infection
Symptoms:
- • Ear pain
- • Feeling of fullness
- • Hearing problems
Care: See a doctor. Use warm compress for pain relief.
Sinus Infection
Symptoms:
- • Facial pain and pressure
- • Thick nasal discharge
- • Headache
Care: Use saline rinses, humidifier. See doctor if severe.
Pink Eye (Conjunctivitis)
Symptoms:
- • Red, itchy eyes
- • Discharge from eyes
- • Feeling like sand in eyes
Care: See a doctor. Avoid touching eyes. Wash hands often.
Skin Rash
Symptoms:
- • Red, itchy skin
- • Bumps or blisters
- • Dry or scaly patches
Care: Keep area clean and dry. Use gentle moisturizers.
When to Seek Emergency Care
Call 911 or go to the emergency room if you have:
- •Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
- •Chest pain or pressure
- •High fever (over 103°F) that won't come down
- •Severe dehydration
- •Confusion or difficulty staying awake
- •Severe abdominal pain
- •Signs of severe allergic reaction
- •Any symptoms that worry you