On campus and in social settings, you face many new health concerns, including respiratory viruses, reproductive health, and alcohol consumption. You can do many things to stay healthy, but you should also seek proper medical care when feeling unwell.
Some tips for staying healthy while you’re in college include:
- Drink plenty of fluids and get at least eight hours of sleep each night.
- If you drink alcohol, limit it to no more than one or two servings per day.
- Wash your hands and cover your mouth if you cough or sneeze. If you’re sick, stay home and away from other people so you don’t spread the illness.
- Get a yearly physical to make sure your health screenings are up to date.
- Persons with a vagina and cervix should get a pap smear every three years, beginning at age 21, and every five years after age 30.
- Even if you’re on birth control, it’s important to wear a condom EVERY time you have sex.
- Get checked regularly for sexually transmitted infections if you are sexually active.
When should I see a doctor if I’m feeling sick?
Sickness is a part of life. Most symptoms of cold, flu, and other common illnesses can be managed at home with plenty of rest, fluids, and over-the-counter medicine. If your symptoms are severe, don’t go away within a few days, or have a fever that won’t go down, it might be time to see a medical professional.
Can I use telehealth services, or should I visit my doctor in person?
Depending on your health concern, you may be able to use telehealth services. In some cases, an in-person visit will be required. If you’re unsure whether you need an in-person or virtual appointment, this list of telehealth visit types by condition is a good place to start.
Conditions that can be easily diagnosed and treated via telehealth include:
- Some upper respiratory infections (symptoms like coughs, sore throats, and stuffy noses)
- Allergies
- Minor cuts
- Sunburns
- Certain skin conditions (rashes, poison ivy, acne, and skin lesions) can be shown clearly during a video visit
Conditions that may require an in-person visit to a clinic include:
- Symptoms of urinary tract infection or sexually transmitted infection
- Vaginal concerns like itching or discharge
- Testicular pain
- Abdominal pain
- Certain injuries not easily captured on camera
- Ear pain
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Difficulty swallowing
What health care options are available at Nebraska Medicine UNO Health Center?
The UNO Health Center offers many options for currently enrolled students. This includes in-person and telehealth visits for primary care and mental health medication management.
Care is available Monday through Friday from 8 A.M. to 4 P.M. by appointment only. Call 402.554.2374 using the 10-digit number, whether on or off campus, to schedule a visit.