I. STUDENT HEALTH SERVICE
Hours, Health Fee, Insurance, Emergency Numbers, After Hours Instructions……………….….………....Page 1
Getting To Student Health Service, Making Appointments, Parking, Email Service...……….……….…....Page 2
Services Available at ECU Student Health Service……………………………………………..…………...Page 3
Appointment or Urgent Care?…………………………………………………………………..….…………Page 4
What the Health Care Provider Should Know, When to Call 911 Immediately…………………..…..……...Page 5
Over-the-Counter Medications, ECU Student Health Service Pharmacy………………………..…….…….Page 6
II. SELF-CARE From Abdominal Pain to Vomiting!
Using the Self-Care Guide, Key to Symbols Used……………………………………...…………………....Page 7
Abdominal Pain………………………………………………………………………...……………...…...Page 8-9
Acne…………………………………………………………………………………………..…….………..Page 10
Alcohol & Alcohol Poisoning……………………………………………………………...……….………..Page 11
Asthma………………………………………………………………………………………....………....Page 12-13
Colds and Flu……………………………………………………………………………………...….…..Page 14-16
Coughs…………………………………………………………….……………………………...…………..Page 17
Depression……………………………………………………………….……………………...…………....Page 18
Diarrhea……………………………………………………………………….………………...……………Page 19
Eating Disorders…………………………………………………………………….…………...…………...Page 20
Fatigue…………………………………………………………………………………….……..…………...Page 21
Fever……………………………………………………………………………………..……….…………..Page 22
Headaches……………………………………………………………………………..……………….…Page 23-24
Sexually Transmitted Infections……………………………………………………..…………...…………..Page 25
Skin Injuries (Burns, Scrapes, Cuts, Bruises, Punctures)……………………….………..……………….Page 26-29
Sore Throats………………………………………………………………………….…..……………….…..Page 30
Sprains, Strains, Breaks, & Sports Injuries……………………………………….……….………………….Page 31
Stress…………………………………………………………………………….……………….…………...Page 32
Urinary Tract Infections……………………………………………………….……………………….……..Page 33
Vaginal Infections/Problems………………………………….…………………….………………………...Page 34
Vomiting/Nausea…………………………………………………….………………………………….…Page 35-37
Living A Healthy Lifestyle……………………….………………………….…....………………………..…...Page 38
Resources For More Information……………………………………………….…………………….…….....Page 39
Make Your Wishes Known (Advance Directives and Organ Donation)…………..………………...……....Page 40
On behalf of the ECU Student Health Service, welcome to East Carolina University! We hope that
you will keep this self-care guide while you are here and use it as necessary to maintain your health.
This should not, however, take the place of seeking professional health care for serious health
matters. Always seek health care if symptoms persist or worsen. Good luck & good health!
My Health Insurance Information:
...when you pay tuition, you pay a health fee that
covers most of the services at ECU Student Health
Service? (Services that are not covered by this fee are
offered at significantly reduced costs.)
ECU Student Health Service will help you file your
health insurance for any charges that you may have.
If you do not have health insurance, a plan
specifically designed for ECU students is available.
Contact the ECU Student Health Service for more
information.
Emergency Medical Services
ECU Campus Police
Greenville Fire Department
Greenville Police Department
Poison Control Center
ECU Student Health Service
ECU Center for Counseling &
Student Development
Company:
__________________________________________
Address:
Phone:
__________________________________________
Policy Holder’s Name:
__________________________________________
911
911
911
911
1-800-POISON (764-7661)
328-6841
328-6661
ECU STUDENT HEALTH SERVICE HOURS:
Fall and Spring:
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, 8:00 am—7:00 pm
Wednesday, 9:00 am—7:00 pm
Friday — 8:00 am—5:00 pm
Saturday & Sunday, 9:00 am — Noon
For after-hours
emergencies, call 911.
Pitt Memorial Hospital is
less than 10 minutes away
from the ECU campus.
LOCATION: ECU Student Health Service is located between Joyner Library and the Bate Building. The main
entrance faces Flanagan.
MAKING AN APPOINTMENT: You can either stop by the ECU Student Health Service or call 328-6841 to
schedule an appointment.
PARKING: The ECU Student Health Service recognizes that parking on campus can be difficult at times. There are a
limited number of spaces on the south side of the health center adjacent to Slay Residence Hall. You must obtain a pass
from the front desk at ECU Student Health Service to park in these spaces. If you are coming in for a SCHEDULED
APPOINTMENT, the best thing to do is park at Minges Coliseum and take the campus shuttle to Joyner Library.
Gotquestions is an email service provided for students to ask
questions anonymously*. Questions are answered by a health
education staff member at ECU Student Health Service. If you have
questions related to health, sexuality issues, alcohol/tobacco/other
drugs, services at Student Health Service, or anything else you can
think of, send them to:
[email protected]
*Helpful Hint: For your confidentiality, choose to remain “anonymous” by making up a non-identifying name and
address at one of many free email sites. Please note that we cannot diagnose through email.
Appointments—The outpatient clinic is similar to other health care facilities in that students are seen
through an appointment system for general medical care during sickness/illness or injury or for routine
health exams, screenings, immunizations, or education.
Urgent Care Clinic—The urgent/acute care clinic is available during operating hours for those who need immediate
care. Students are seen according to the severity of their illness or injury, and treated according to urgency.
Pharmacy—The in-house pharmacy offers a variety of over-the-counter medications and products (such as treatments for
symptoms of colds) for those times when self-care is appropriate. A range of prescription medications are also available
at significantly reduced prices.
Wellness Education—Specialists are available for individual consultations, to arrange educational programs, classes,
and awareness events, and to provide health-related materials and resources on a variety of topics such as sexuality issues,
substance abuse, stress management, nutrition, and more. Eating disorder counseling is available.
Lab & X-Ray—Lab tests are performed in-house by SHS’s own lab technicians or are sent to a reference lab and offered
at reduced costs. Students will pay a reduced rate to have any X-ray services performed at the Student Health Service.
Sports Medicine—Whether playing organized sports for the university, working out at the Student Recreation Center, or
just walking to class, our sports medicine providers offer services for the athlete in all of us.
Physical Therapy—Treatment by a physical therapist is available at reduced rates with a referral from a private health
care physician or by one of SHS’s health care providers.
Allergy Clinic—Bring your antigen and injection instructions, and our rapid care nurse will work with your schedule
to administer your allergy shots!
Urgent Care
‫ ٱ‬Acute, disabling injury or pain
‫ ٱ‬Illness with temperature > 102º
‫ ٱ‬Lacerations or acute penetrating
wounds
‫ ٱ‬Fainting episode
‫ ٱ‬Acute chest pain
‫ ٱ‬Acute emotional problems
‫ ٱ‬Acute asthma attacks or breathing
‫ ٱ‬Contagious illness (Measles,
Chicken Pox)
‫ ٱ‬Acute bleeding
‫ ٱ‬Seizures or acute head injuries
‫ ٱ‬Burns
‫ ٱ‬Sexual Assault/Rape
‫ ٱ‬Poisoning
‫ ٱ‬Acute abdominal pain
Same Day Care
‫ ٱ‬Acute infection (ear, vaginal,
urinary tract, eye, or throat)
‫ ٱ‬Injuries occurring within the
past 2-7 days
‫ ٱ‬Acute skin problems (hives,
poison ivy)
‫ ٱ‬STI testing with symptoms
‫ ٱ‬Possible drug reactions
‫ ٱ‬Emergency Contraception
‫ ٱ‬Nausea/vomiting/diarrhea
Patients coming into the Urgent Care clinic at ECU Student Health
Service are “triaged” and seen accordingly. If you have questions about
what kind of care you need or to make an appointment, call 328-6841.
Appointment
‫ ٱ‬Physicals
‫ ٱ‬Pap smears
‫ ٱ‬Prescription renewals
‫ ٱ‬Lab work
‫ ٱ‬Follow-up from previous
visit
‫ ٱ‬STI testing without
symptoms
‫ ٱ‬Pregnancy testing
‫ ٱ‬Gyn problems
‫ ٱ‬Injuries occurring more than
7 days ago
‫ ٱ‬Skin problems
‫ ٱ‬Long-term medical problems
‫ ٱ‬Upper respiratory infections
‫ ٱ‬Non-urgent mental health
problems
‫ ٱ‬Elective procedures (wart or
toenail removal, sutures)
What does “Acute” mean? Requiring immediate attention; having rapid onset
What does “Triage” mean? Screening of sick, wounded or injured persons to determine priority of care
‫ٱ‬
‫ڤ‬
‫ڤ‬
‫ڤ‬
‫ڤ‬
SYMPTOMS:
Pain
‫ ڤ‬Stomach problems
Fever/chills
‫ ڤ‬Nausea/vomiting
Skin problems (location and description) ‫ ڤ‬Breathing problems
Eye, ear, nose, throat problems
‫ ڤ‬Anxiety/depression
Other symptoms: ______________________________________
*How long have you had symptoms? _________________________
*Are they constant or do they come and go?____________________
*Things that make symptoms worse or
better_________________________________________________
*Other problems:_________________________________________
*Questions you have:______________________________________
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
No breathing and/or pulse
Unconsciousness
Severe difficulty breathing (if unable to get to the health center)
Severe bleeding
Head or neck injury
Suicidal or homicidal intent
Choking
MEDICINES, DRUGS, & ALLERGIES:
•
•
•
•
Prescribed medications you take
Over-the-counter medications you take
Herbs and supplements you take
Alcohol/tobacco/other drugs used
I AM ALLERGIC TO:
___________________________________
___________________________________
The ECU Student Health Service pharmacy carries a wide variety of over-the-counter
medications and products at significantly reduced costs. You do not have to have an
appointment to buy these. Just go to the cashier’s window, check what you want on the
OTC form, and pay for your purchase.
PAIN RELIEVERS:
Aspirin: Relieves mild to moderate pain, inflammation and tenderness in joints.
Acetaminophen: Relieves mild to moderate pain. Reduces fever.
Ibuprofen: Relieves mild to moderate pain, particularly for menstrual cramps.
Decreases inflammation. Helps reduce fever.
Naproxen: Relieves mild to moderate pain. Anti-inflammatory. Reduces fever.
Duration of action is 8-12 hours.
COLD & FLU:
Antihistimines: Relieves itching, sneezing, teary eyes, and runny nose.
Decongestants: Helps to widen blocked nasal passages and sinuses.
Cough Expectorant: Reduces the thickness of mucous in order to help remove
congestion from the chest. Can help prevent a cold or flu from getting worse to the
point of bronchitis.
Cough Suppressant: Designed to help control coughing, particularly a dry,
hacking, persistent cough.
Analgesic & Antipyretic: Reduces sinus pain, headache, and/or fever.
Read labels. Make sure
your OTC is right for the
symptoms you have.
The ECU Student Health
Service pharmacy offers
these non-prescription
contraceptive/safer sex
options:
• Latex male condoms
• Polyurethane male
condoms
• Female condoms
• Flavored condoms
• Spermicides
(Prescription contraceptive
methods are also available.)
Stop by the ECU Student Health Service to check out what is available for you!
Talk to the pharmacist about possible side effects and drug interactions.
The next section lists common illnesses, symptoms, and other health concerns alphabetically.
URGENT
CARE
NEEDED
Go to ECU Student
Health Service
Urgent Care clinic.
Make an appointment at
ECU Student Health
Service. Call 328-6841.
For after hours
care, call 911.
If symptoms worsen or persist, see
a health care provider right away.
Pain in the abdominal area (between the lower ribs and the pelvis) can range from mild to severe
and occur suddenly or over time. The following are common causes:
CONSTIPATION—Results from not drinking enough fluids, not eating enough dietary fiber, not being
active enough, and from misusing laxatives. Other symptoms: a hard time passing stool or having very hard
stools and a feeling of continued fullness after passing stool. WHAT TO DO: Eat foods high in fiber.
Drink liquids. Exercise. Don’t resist the urge to have a bowel movement. Discuss use of antacids,
iron supplements, and laxatives with you health care provider.
GASTROENTERITIS—Inflammation of the lining of the stomach and intestines, usually caused by
intestinal viruses, food poisoning, and drinking contaminated water or too much alcohol. Accompanying
symptoms: nausea and/or vomiting, diarrhea, fever and/or chills. (Suspect food poisoning if others who
have eaten the same foods you did also have symptoms.) WHAT TO DO: Make yourself as comfortable
as possible. See a health care provider if symptoms persist or worsen.
LACTOSE INTOLERANCE—Results from a lack of an enzyme needed to digest the sugar in dairy
products. Accompanying symptoms: bloating after drinking milk or eating other dairy products, gas, and
diarrhea. WHAT TO DO: Avoid foods that are not easy for you to digest. Try foods that have had
lactose reduced, such as yogurt and buttermilk. Take over-the-counter drops or pills that have the
enzyme lactase when you have dairy foods. If necessary, avoid products with milk.
MENSTRUAL CRAMPS (in Females)—Caused by hormones influencing the uterus to contract and spasm.
Premenstrual bloating may increase the abdominal pain. Other symptoms may include: back pain, fatigue,
and/or diarrhea. WHAT TO DO: Take an over-the-counter medication for menstrual cramps. Drink
hot tea. Hold a heating pad or hot water bottle on your abdomen or lower back. Take a warm bath.
Gently massage your abdomen. Do mild exercises. When you can, lie on your back. Rest.
PEPTIC ULCER—Usually produces a burning pain between the breastbone and navel. Pain often occurs
between meals and in the morning. May last from a few minutes to a few hours and be relieved with eating
or antacids. Accompanying symptoms may include: loss of appetite/weight loss, nausea or vomiting dark,
red blood or material that looks like coffee grounds, and/or bloody, black tarry stools. WHAT TO DO:
Avoid repeated use of anti-inflammatory drugs, like aspirin. Talk to your health care provider.
To Help Ease
the Pain :
• Place a hot
water bottle or
a heating pad,
set on low,
over the area
of pain.
• Find a
comfortable
position.
Relax.
Is the abdominal pain very severe? Is the pain
so bad that you cannot move or gets a lot
worse when you move?
Are all of these symptoms of appendicitis
present: Sharp and severe pain that usually starts
in the upper part of the stomach or around the
navel and that moves to the lower right part of the
abdomen, tenderness when the right lower area
of the abdomen is pressed, nausea, vomiting, or
no appetite, mild fever?
For females, do you have the following signs
and symptoms of ectopic pregnancy or pelvic
inflammatory disease: you are sexually active,
have missed one or more periods or have vaginal
bleeding you can’t explain, cramping or pain that
can be severe in your lower abdomen, sudden
fainting or dizziness
Do you have signs of an acute kidney infection
(fever, shaking and chills, pain in one or both
sides of your back, nausea and vomiting)?
Do you have any of the following signs of
kidney stones: pain that started in your
mid back and moved to your abdomen,
frequent urination, but a small amount
is passed, inability to urinate except in
certain positions, bloody urine, chills/and
or fever, nausea and vomiting?
With abdominal pain, do you have any of
these problems: the whites of your eyes
or your skin looks yellow, a recent
injury or blow to the abdomen, severe
diarrhea, lightheadedness or dizziness,
constipation for more than a week,
sensitive skin on the abdomen, fever?
With abdominal pain, do you have signs
of a bladder infection (see “URINARY
TRACT INFECTIONS” )?
With abdominal pain, are any of these
conditions present? Constant belching,
nausea, gas, or gurgling noises,
worsening pain when bending over or
lying down, or possible pregnancy?
Acne is a common skin condition that occurs most often in
teenagers and young adults, but can be present into adulthood.
CAUSES:
Acne blemishes occur when oil ducts below the skin get
clogged due to:
• Hormonal changes during adolescence
• Changes in hormone level’s before the menstrual cycle
• Use of certain heavy lotions or oily makeup
• Stress
• Nutritional supplements that contain iodine
• Some anticonvulsive medications and lithium
SELF-CARE FOR ACNE:
Keep your skin clean. Wash your skin twice a day with a mild
soap. Use a clean cloth every time, and gently work the soap
into your skin. Rinse well. Do not scrub. Wash after you
exercise or sweat. An over-the-counter cream, liquid, or gel
that contains benzoyl peroxide may help, although overuse may
cause irritation. Don’t spend too much time in the sun. Use
only oil-free and water based makeup, creams, or lotions.
Don’t squeeze, scratch, or pop pimples, as this can lead to
infection and scarring.
Interesting Note: Eating oily foods does NOT cause acne!
Is your acne very bad and do you
have signs of an infection, such as
fever and swelling, at the site?
Do you have problems with scarring,
pimples that are big, widespread, and
painful, or does your acne cause you
a great deal of embarrassment?
Do self-treatments consistently not
work or make your skin worse?
MYTH
Alcohol poisoning occurs when the body has more alcohol than the liver can
process. Because alcohol is a central nervous system depressant, “over-dosing”
alcohol can cause severe consequences such as coma and death.
SIGNS:
SIGNS:
•
•
•
•
Unconsciousness (person cannot be aroused/made aware of surroundings)
No or slow, shallow breathing
Slow pulse rate
Skin that is cold, clammy, and/or pale or blue in color
•
•
•
•
•
Call 911 immediately. Do NOT leave the person alone.
Place the person on his/her side with the knees bent to prevent choking.
Loosen the clothing around the neck.
Check for anything that might obstruct breathing.
If the person stops breathing and has no pulse, perform CPR until help
arrives.
WHAT TO DO:
DO:
DRINKING GAMES—
GAMES—PLEASURE OR PERIL?
: If I throw up, I can
drink more. If you vomit, your
body is telling you that you
cannot handle anymore alcohol.
Vomiting does not “make room” for
more. The blood alcohol content is
already high, and the body needs
TIME to process it.
FACT:
The MAJORITY of
students at ECU do NOT drink
excessively! Most students who
drink do so responsibly. The “party”
school reputation is only that—a
reputation. Students who drink
responsibly are more likely to do well
academically and to experience less
negative consequences.
Drinking games sometimes encourage consuming a large amount of alcohol and
quickly. Often, people who experience alcohol poisoning are influenced by their peers to drink
“the most” or the “fastest”. Know your limit and stick to it. If you drink, do so in moderation, and
drink slowly. Eat when you drink. Alternate an alcoholic beverage with a non-alcoholic beverage.
Don’t mix alcohol with other drugs. Designate a driver. NO alcohol if you are under 21.
PROBLEMS WITH ALCOHOL AND OTHER DRUGS?
Call 328-6661 to schedule an appointment with a substance abuse counselor on campus.
Asthma is a disease that affects the air passages in the lungs. Asthma sufferers may
experience attacks or episodes of difficult breathing because their airways are very sensitive.
SYMPTOMS:
• Shortness of breath
• Breathing gets harder and may hurt.
• Wheezing
• Tightness in the chest
• A cough that lasts more than a week
COMMON TRIGGERS:
• Upper respiratory infections (cold, flu, sinus
infections, bronchitis)
• Allergens (dust, pollen, molds, pet dander)
• Environmental irritants (perfumes, air
fresheners, smoke, air pollution, etc.)
• Sulfites (additives found in some foods and
wine)
• Changes in temperature or cold air
• Exercise
• Certain medications
• Strong feelings, such as laughing or crying
• Hormonal changes
Note: If you have asthma, get an annual flu shot.
SELF-CARE
Along with prescribed medications:
• Drink plenty of fluids.
• Avoid smoking.
• Vacuum and dust often.
• Use allergen proof bedding. Wash pillows and bedding often.
• Use curtains and rugs that can be washed often.
• Reduce clutter in your room.
• Use an air filter/purifier.
• Use an air conditioner in the summer if possible.
• Stop exercising if you start wheezing.
• Talk to your health care provider about over-the-counter
medications.
• Keep asthma medicines/treatments handy and refilled.
• During an asthma attack, sit up, keep calm, and focus on
breathing slow and easy. Get medical attention as
needed.
Do you have asthma with any
of the following:
• Blue lips or fingernails
• Extreme shortness of breath
• Listlessness or severe
weakness
• Dizziness or fainting
• Wheezing and you are
currently taking steroid
medicine or that doesn’t stop
after treatment
• Coughing so much you can’t
take a breath
• A fever with heavy
breathing
• Can’t walk up a flight of
stairs
• Can’t sleep or eat
Is your peak expiratory flow
rate (PEFR) on the Peak Flow
Zone system below 50% of
your personal best number?
Do you have asthma, are you taking steroid medicine,
and do you have a cold, the flu, or bronchitis?
Do you have asthma and use the Peak Flow Zone
system and your PEFR is 50 to 80% of your personal
best number?
Do you have asthma and have symptoms at rest, with
exercise, early in the morning, or at night?
Do you have asthma and the following problems:
• Breathing faster than usual or it is harder to breathe
• Shortness of breath occurs more often
• A cough which keeps you up at night
• An asthma attack does not respond to prescribed
medication like it used to
• Asthma attacks are more frequent and/or are getting
worse
• Less able to perform daily activities?
Do you use your bronchodilator more than 2 times a
week?
Do you have asthma and need medicine refills?
FACT: Colds and flu are
the NUMBER ONE reason
Cold symptoms mostly affect you above the neck. Flu symptoms
students miss class due to
typically come on suddenly and affect the body all over. Both
illness.
colds and the flu are caused by viruses.
DO I HAVE A COLD OR THE FLU?
SYMPTOMS
□ Fever, chills
□ Headache
□ General aches
□ Fatigue, weakness
□ Runny, stuffy nose
□ Sneezing
□ Sore Throat
□ Cough
COLD
Low fever, if any
Rare
Mild, if any
Mild, if any
Common
Usual
Common
Mild to moderate
FLU
Usual; can be high
Usual
Usual; often severe
Usual; often severe
Sometimes
Sometimes
Sometimes
Common
PREVENTION: Wash your hands often. Keep them away from your nose,
eyes, and mouth. Use an instant hand sanitizer when you can’t wash your hands. Try
not to touch people or their things if they have a cold or the flu. Get regular exercise.
Eat well. Get enough sleep. Get a flu shot each fall at the ECU Student Health Service.
FACT: There is no “cure”
for a cold or the flu. However,
treatments are available for
symptoms.
FACT: Antibiotics will not
treat viruses.* They may,
however, be prescribed if
infection accompanies virus.
FACT: The “stomach flu”
is not influenza. It is a stomach
pain, diarrhea, and vomiting, etc.
caused by a virus in the stomach
and intestines.
*ANTIBIOTIC RESISTANCE: Antibiotics treat infections caused by bacteria. You should not take antibiotics just to take
them or if not recommended. Taking antibiotics unnecessarily adds to antibiotic resistance, where bacteria that normally
respond to one type of medication build up a resistance and may not be effective for treatment when you need them.
Do 2 or more of these signs of
meningitis occur at one time:
• High fever
• Stiff neck
• Nausea/vomiting
• General weakness
• Severe headache
• Purple or bumpy red skin rash
• Sensitivity to light
After a recent case of flu, are any
of these signs of Reye’s Syndrome
present:
• Sudden repeated vomiting
• Pain in the upper right area of
the abdomen
• Rapid mental status changes
(agitation, confusion, irritabilty,
delirium)
• Increase pulse/breathing rate
• General weakness
• Loss of consciousness
With the flu, do you have extreme shortness
of breath, confusion, or lightheadedness?
Do you have 2 or more of these symptoms of a
sinus infection?
• Fever over 101ºF
• Greenish-yellow or bloody colored nasal discharge
• Nasal congestion with facial pain or pain in the
upper teeth that does not improve over 7 days
• A feeling of pressure inside the head
• Eye pain, blurred vision, or changes in vision
• Cheek or upper jaw pain
• Swelling around the eyes, nose, cheeks, forehead
With cold or flu, do you have the following:
• A fever over 100ºF for more than 3 days
• A sore throat that is bright red or has white spots
• An earache
• A cough with shortness of breath; chest
tightness; wheezing; chest pain; difficulty
sleeping or lying down due to cough
• Nasal congestion which is not improved using
self-care
Self-care practices will treat colds and most cases of the flu. Prescribed antiviral medicines, such as Relenza, Tamiflu,
and Rimantidine may make flu symptoms milder and help you recover sooner if started within 48 hours of the onset of
flu symptoms. Call 328-6841 to make an appointment for a prescription.
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Drink plenty of liquids.
Take an over-the-counter medicine for muscle aches and/or fever, but don’t take aspirin if you have flulike symptoms.
Use an over-the-counter nasal spray if needed. Use as directed.
Use a vaporizer in your room.
Take echinacea, zinc lozenges, and/or vitamin C as advised by your health care provider, when cold or flu
symptoms start. Do not use echinacea or zinc lozenges long term, as they do not prevent colds and flu.
Get plenty of rest.
See “OVER-THE-COUNTER MEDICATIONS” to see what might help treat your symptoms.
FOR AN ACCOMPANYING SORE THROAT: Gargle every few hours with a solution of 1/4
teaspoon of salt dissolved in 1/2 cup of warm water. Make sure the salt is dissolved. Drink tea with lemon (with or
without honey). Suck on hard candy or a medicated lozenge.
Chicken Soup for the Cold?
It’s not just an old wives’ tale. Chicken soup (or vegetable broth if you are a
vegetarian) can actually help clear mucous. Bon appetit’!
KINDS OF
COUGHS::
COUGHS
Productive-Brings up
phlegm or mucous.
Non-productive—Dry
cough.
Reflex—Reaction from a
problem elsewhere, such
as the stomach or the ear.
CAUSES:
CAUSES:
• Infections, such as
colds, the flu, and
bronchitis
• Asthma
• Allergies
• Dry air
• Tobacco or smoke
• Acid reflux
• Obstruction in the
airway
• Medical conditions,
such as tuberculosis
With coughing, do you have any of the
signs of an allergic reaction:
• A hard time swallowing or breathing
• Severe swelling of the face or body
parts
• Obstructed airway
• Wheezing
• Dizziness, weakness
With coughing, do you have any of the
following:
• Trouble breathing or speaking
• Fainting
• Coughing up true red blood
Do you have a sudden onset of coughing from inhaling a small object?
With a cough, do
you have any of
these problems:
• An itchy, red
splotchy rash
• A fever of
102ºF or higher
• Your chest hurts
only when you
cough
• You cough up
green, yellow, or
bloody-colored
mucous
• You lose weight
for no reason, feel
tired, or have
night sweats.
Does your
cough last for
more than 3 weeks?
Self Care For Dry Coughs: Drink liquids to soothe the irritation. Suck on cough drops or hard candy. Take an
over-the-counter cough medicine that contains dextromethorphan.
For Productive Coughs—Drink plenty of liquids to loosen the mucous. Use an air vaporizer in your room. Let
steam from a hot shower thin mucous. Use an over-the-counter cough medicine/expectorant containing guaifenesin.
Everyone has highs and lows. Depression is the most common reason students seek help from a
counselor. Depression can make it hard to manage one’s life and stressors that may occur.
Symptoms include feeling sad, hopeless, guilty, or worthless, thinking negative thoughts, and
having a loss of interest in things going on around you, like academics, work, and social activities.
SIGNS OF DEPRESSION:
HELPING A FRIEND:
Concentration is often impaired
Inability to experience pleasure
Increase in self-critical thoughts with a voice
in the back of one's mind providing a constant
barrage of harsh, negative statements
• Sleep disturbance or unable to fall back to
sleep
• Feeling fatigued after 12 hours of sleep
• Decrease in appetite or food loses its taste
• Feelings of guilt, helplessness and/or
hopelessness
• Thoughts of suicide or death
• Increased isolation
• Missing deadlines or a drop in standards
• Change in personality
• Increased sexual promiscuity
• Increased alcohol/drug use
If you experience some or most of these symptoms for
more than two weeks, consider seeing a counselor.
Never ignore remarks about suicide. Listen to
your friend. Show support. Point out successes and
try to boost confidence. Ask your friend to do active
things with you. Do not be pushy. Encourage him/
her to talk to someone. Talk to a professional on
campus to find out what else you can do.
•
•
•
For Temporary Downs: Be with positive
people. Do something to help someone else. Talk
to someone who will listen. Express yourself
through writing, painting, or in a journal. Relax
and listen to soft music. Do something you enjoy.
The Center for Counseling and Student
Development has caring, trained
professionals to help you deal with
issues that affect your emotional health.
Call 328-6661 to make an
appointment.
COMMON CAUSES::
“Stomach flu”, which is
a viral infection of the
intestines
• Spoiled food,
contaminated water, or
infections from bacteria
or parasites that affect
the digestive tract
• Overuse of alcohol or
laxatives
• Lactose intolerance or
other food allergies
• Menstrual cramps
• Side effect of certain
medications
• Stress or panic attack
•
NOTE: When traveling,
find out about water and
food recommendations!
Diarrhea is passing body waste from the
bowel more often and in more of a liquid
state than usual.
With diarrhea, do you have the
following signs of dehydration:
• Sunken, dry, or tearless eyes
• Dry mouth, tongue, and lips
• No urine or a low amount of urine
that is dark yellow
• Lightheadedness
• Dry skin
• Dizziness, confusion, weakness
• Increase in breathing and heart rate
• Severe thirst (may come and go)
Is there blood in the diarrhea or is its
color tar-like (black) or maroon?
SELF-CARE: Follow your normal diet if there are no signs of dehydration. If there
are signs of dehydration, stop solid foods and have 2 cups of clear fluids per hour,
but avoid high sugar drinks. Avoid fatty and fried foods. Start eating normal meals
within 12 hours. Try an over-the-counter anti-diarrheal medicine, such as Imodium
A-D, but wait at least 12 hours before you take it.
Do you have
abdominal or
rectal pain?
Do you have:
• Gas, bloating,
cramps, or pain in
the abdomen
• Changes in
bowel habit
(constipation,
diarrhea, or both),
crampy urge, but
inability to move
your bowels, or
mucous in your
stool?
Do you have:
• Temperature of
101ºF or higher
• Diarrhea that
has lasted 48 hours
or longer
• A chronic illness
and have
diarrhea more than
8 times a day?
ANOREXIA:
• Loss of a significant amount of weight in a
short period of time
• Obsession with fat, calories, and weight
• Intense, irrational fear of weight gain
• Distorted body image
• A need to be perfect or in control
• Marked physical effects, including loss of hair,
slowed heart rate, low blood pressure, feeling
cold due to decrease in body temperature, and
absence of menstrual periods
BULIMIA:
• Repeated acts of binge eating and purging;
purging can be through vomiting; taking
laxatives, water pills, or diet pills, fasting, and
exercising excessively to “undo” the binge
• Excessive concern about body weight
• Frequent dieting
• Dental problems, mouth sores, and chronic sore
throat
• Frequent time spent in bathrooms
BINGE EATING DISORDER:
• Periods of continuous and sporadic eating that
is not related to hunger
• Impulsive binging on food without purging
• Repeated use of diets or sporadic fasts
Eating disorders are a coping mechanism which result in
obsession with food and weight to deal with feelings of
guilt, pressures, stress, and other emotional factors. Eating
disorders can result in severe health problems. The three
most common eating disorders are anorexia nervosa,
bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorder.
If you, or someone you know, may be dealing with an
eating disorder, it is very important to talk to a
professional to find out what to do.
More information on eating disorders and
body image is available at the ECU
Student Health Service Wellness
Education department. Stop by or make
an appointment for counseling at the ECU
Student Health Service by
calling 328-6794 or through
the ECU Center for
Counseling and Student
Development by calling
328-6661.
Fatigue is more than being tired.
It is feeling drained of energy,
having a hard time doing normal
activities, having low motivation,
feeling inadequate, and having
little or no social contact.
CAUSES:
• Lack of sleep for long
periods of time
• Burnout and stress
• Crash dieting and eating
poorly
• Side effects from allergies
• Depression
• Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
(fatigue lasts at least 6
months)
• Mononucleosis
• Alcohol or drug abuse
• Anemia
• Hepatitis
• Autoimmune disorders, such
as thyroid disease, diabetes,
lupus, multiple sclerosis, and
fibromyalgia
• HIV/AIDS
• Leukemia
Do you have fatigue and any of the following symptoms:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Fever
Sore throat
Swollen lymph glands in the neck area
Loss of weight or appetite
Pain in the upper left abdominal area
Jaundice (yellowing of the skin)
Dark urine
Stools that are pale and clay colored
Vomiting and nausea
Pain in the abdomen
Constant urination
Abnormally increased thirst or hunger
Extreme irritability
Itching and/or skin infections that
don’t clear up easily
Tingling, numbness, or pain in the
arms and legs
Blurred vision, double vision, or loss
of vision
Hair loss
Decreased tolerance to cold
temperature
Constipation
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Unexplained weight gain
Mental sluggishness
Longer and heavier
menstrual periods
Bladder problems
Muscle spasms
Poor coordination
Emotional mood swings
Joint pain
Mouth sores for more than
2 weeks
A rash on your cheeks for
more than a month
Skin rash after being in the
sun
Pain for more than 2 days
when taking deep breaths
Fainting
Seizure or convulsion
Headache
Insomnia
Flu-like symptoms
Pregnancy is possible
With a fever, do you have:
• Seizure
• Listlessness
• Abnormal breathing
• Stiff neck
• Excessive irritability
• Confusion
• Severe headache
With a fever, do you have:
• Ear pain
• Persistent sore throat
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Abdominal pain
• Urinary pain, burning, or frequency
• Skin rash or skin that is red and swollen
• Pain over the eyes or cheeks
Has the fever done any of the
following:
• Gone away for more than 24
hours and come back
• Comes within 6 months after a
visit to a foreign country
• Comes after having an immunization
and is present with dizziness?
Fever is one way that the
body fights infection or
illness. It helps speed up
the body’s defense actions
by increasing blood flow.
Normal body temperature
ranges from 97ºF to
100ºF, with 98.6ºF being
average.
When you have a fever,
your skin feels warm, you
may sweat, and your
temperature is higher than
100ºF.
Is the fever 102ºF
or higher for 36
hours or more?
Keep a thermometer in your
room or apartment to take your
temperature with if necessary.
Glass mercury thermometers
are not allowed in residence
halls because, if they break,
drops of toxic mercury can be
released.
SELF-CARE: If having a fever
up to 102ºF causes you no harm or
discomfort and you have no other
medical symptoms, you may not
need to treat it at all. FOR MILD
FEVERS: Drink at least 1 to 2
quarts of liquid everyday. Take a
sponge bath with warm water. For
high fevers, put cold packs or cool
cloths on the neck, groin, and
under the armpits. Take the
appropriate dose of an over-thecounter medication to reduce fever.
Rest. Don’t wear too many
clothes or use too many
blankets. Don’t exercise.
Headaches are one of the most common health complaints. If you have frequent headaches,
keep a diary of when, where, and why the headaches occur to help with diagnosis of the source.
Common Types of Headaches:
Tension or Muscular
Caused by tense or tight muscles in the face,
neck, and scalp. Dull ache in the forehead,
above the ears, and at the back of the head.
Pain in the neck or shoulders that travels to
the head.
Migraine
Occur when blood vessels in the head open
too wide or close too tightly. Headaches start
on one side of the head or one side hurts more
than the other. May cause feelings of nausea,
seeing spots or zigzag flashes of light, and
sensitivity to light and noise.
Sinus
Occurs when fluids in the nose are unable to
drain and build up pressure. Pain in the forehead, cheekbones, and nose that worsens in
the morning. Increased pain when you
bend over or touch your face. Stuffy nose.
There are many causes of headaches:
• Changes in sleep patterns or lack of sleep
• Stress
• Eyestrain
• Doing repetitive work
• Staying in one position for a long time
• Menstruation (in females)
• Caffeine, alcohol, and/or certain foods
• Strenuous exercise
• Colds
• Allergies
• Dirty or polluted water
• Airplane travel
• Environmental pollutants
• Tobacco smoke
• Exposure to chemicals
• Low blood sugar
• Withdrawal symptoms
• Uncorrected vision problems
• Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction (TMJ)
• Depression
• Medical conditions
Too Much
Tylenol?
Did you know that
you can actually
cause headaches if
you overuse overthe-counter or
prescribed pain
relievers?
Brain Freeze!
Eating or drinking
something very
cold, such as ice
cream, can give
you an instant
headache. Try
warming the cold
treat for a few
seconds in the front
of your mouth!
Is the headache associated
with:
• A head injury
• A blow to the head that
causes severe pain,
enlarged pupils, vomiting,
confusion, or lethargy?
• Loss of consciousness
Has the headache come on
suddenly and does it hurt more
than others you have had?
Do you have symptoms of
migraine or sinus headaches
from the previous page?
Does a severe headache occur
along with 1 or more of the
following symptoms of
meningitis:
• High fever
• Stiff neck
• Nausea or vomiting
• Lethargy ( weakness)
• Purple or bumpy red skin
rash
• Sensitivity to light
Is the headache not relieved by
over-the-counter pain relievers?
Has the headache been
occurring for more than 2 to 3
days and does the intensity/
frequency keep increasing?
Has the headache occurred at the
same time of day, week, or
month, such as with a menstrual
period and is not relieved by
over-the-counter medications?
Do you have to take a pain
reliever more than 3 times a
week for at least 3 weeks for
headaches?
Have you noticed the headache
only after taking newly
prescribed or over-the-counter
medications?
SELF-CARE:
Take an over-thecounter medicine for
pain as directed.
Rest in a quiet, dark
room with eyes
closed. Massage
tension areas. Take
a warm shower.
Place a cold or
warm cloth over the
area that aches.
Relax. Avoid things
that bring on
headaches.
Reduce the
amount of alcohol
consumed. After
alcohol, have 2 or
more glasses of
water before you
go to sleep; eat
solid foods; get
plenty of rest. Do
NOT mix Tylenol
(acetaminophen)
with alcohol.
Sexually transmitted infections pass from one person to another through sexual contact (vaginal, anal, and
oral sex, and genital to genital contact). The most common sexually transmitted infections are chlamydia,
trichomonas, gonorrhea, genital herpes, and human papilloma virus (HPV), the virus that causes genital warts.
Syphilis, Hepatitis B, HIV and other infections are also concerns for sexually active people.
SYMPTOMS:
Sexually transmitted infections can be present without ANY symptoms.
TESTING:
The only way to know for sure if you have an infection is to be tested. Testing is available at the ECU Student
Health Service. You can call 328-6841 to set up an appointment for confidential screening.
While the thought of being tested may be intimidating, it is important to be diagnosed so that proper treatment can
be taken to cure or maintain these infections and to minimize the potential for permanent damage.
PREVENTION:
Reduce your risk of transmission by practicing abstinence, being mutually monogamous, talking to
your partner(s) about STIs, and using latex or polyurethane condoms and dental dams during
vaginal, anal, and oral sex.
For more information about “safer sex” options or specific questions
about STIs, email [email protected] or call 328-6794 to make
an appointment with a health educator.
Sexually
transmitted
infections
CAN be passed
through
oral sex.
CUTS
Slices open the skin. Need to be cleaned,
closed, and covered with a bandage to avoid
infection. Stitches may be needed for cuts that
are deep, are longer than an inch, or are in an
area of the body that bends.
SCRAPES
Less serious than cuts, but more painful
because more sensitive nerve endings are
involved.
BURNS
Can be caused from dry heat (fire),
moist heat (steam, hot liquids),
electricity, chemicals, and the sun
(sunburn).
1st Degree—Skin is red, swollen, painful, and
sensitive to touch. Usually heals in 1-2 days.
2nd Degree—Outer and lower skin layers are
affected. Skin will be painful, swollen, red,
blistered, and/or be weepy/watery.
3rd Degree—Skin will be black and white and
charred. Less painful because the nerves have
been destroyed.
PUNCTURES
Wounds that stab into the skin. From
splinters to stepping on a nail.
BRUISES
Caused by broken blood vessels that
bleed into the tissue under the skin.
Bruises cause black and blue or red
skin which turns yellowish-green as it
heals.
ANIMAL AND HUMAN BITES
Most commonly from dogs and cats.
Wounds can get easily infected.
Rabies are a concern with animal bites.
The quicker you treat a skin
injury, the faster the healing
occurs. Simple wounds can
be treated with self-care.
Antibiotics may be needed
for infection.
TETANUS?
For all bites, cuts,
scrapes, punctures,
and burns, be sure
your tetanus shot is
up-to-date. You will
need a tetanus shot if
you have not had one
within 5 years for a
major wound or if
you have not had one
within 10 years for a
minor wound.
Do the following signs of
shock occur with the
injury:
• Pale or blue-colored lips,
skin, fingernails
• Cool and moist skin
• Weak, but fast pulse
• Rapid, shallow breathing
• Weakness,
trembling, confusion,
restlessness
• Difficulty standing/
dizziness
• Loss of
consciousness
Does an animal bite cause
severe bleeding or severely
mangled skin or has a human bite punctured the
skin?
Was the bite from a wild
animal or a pet that has not
been immunized?
Do any of the following describe
the injury:
• Severe bleeding or blood spurts
from the wound
• Bleeding continues after pressure
is applied more than 10 minutes
or 20 minutes to a minor cut
• Deep cut or puncture appears to
go down to the muscle/bone or is
on the scalp or face
• Cut is longer than an inch or is
located in an area that bends
• Skin on the edges of the cut
hangs open
• The burn is 3rd degree (charred
black and white skin, little or no
pain, exposure of tissue under
the skin)
• The burn is 2nd degree (painful,
swollen, red skin with blisters)
and covers more than 10 square
inches of skin area or is on the
face, hands, feet, genitals, or any
joint.
Treatment
varies
depending
on the cause
and how
severe the
injury is.
A day or two after the skin injury, do one or
more of these signs of infection occur:
• Fever
• Redness or red streaks that extend from the
wound site
• Swelling, increased pain, or tenderness at and
around the wound site
• Increased pain
• General ill feeling
Was the cut or puncture from dirty or
contaminated objects, such as rusty nails or
objects in the soil or did a puncture go through
a shoe, especially a rubber-soled one?
With a skin injury, are any of the following
present:
• A burn that does not improve after two days.
• With a 2nd degree burn, more than the outer
skin layer has been affected; more than 3
inches in diameter of the skin has burned; or
blisters have formed
• Bruises appear often and easily; take longer
than 2 weeks to go away; or over a year’s time;
more than 2 or 3 bruises appear for no reason
• Vision problems occur with a bruise near the
eye
Self-Care
For Minor Cuts and Scrapes: Clean the wound
thoroughly with soap and water. Press on the cut to
stop the bleeding for up to 10 minutes. Use sterile
gauze or a clean cloth. After bleeding has stopped,
apply an antibiotic cream (like Neosporin). Bandage
the cut. For scrapes, make a bandage from gauze and
tape. Change it every day or two. Keep bandages
clean and dry.
For Minor Punctures: Remove the object (like a
splinter) with clean, sterile tweezers. Soak the
wound in warm, soapy water 2 to 4 times a day. Dry,
and apply antibiotic cream.
For Bruises: Apply a cold pack if possible within
15 minutes of the injury. Rest the bruised area and
raise it above the heart level, if practical. Two days
after the injury, use warm compresses. Do not
bandage. Avoid hitting the bruised area.
For Animal Bites: Wash the bite with soap and
water for 5 minutes. Flush with water. Dry
the wound and get immediate care.
For 1st Degree Burns:
Immerse the affected area in cold (not ice) water until the pain subsides. If the affected area is dirty, gently wash it
with soapy water first. Keep the area uncovered and elevated, if possible. Apply a dry dressing, if necessary, to
protect the area from dirt, etc. Do not use butter or ointments, such as Vaseline. You can, however, apply aloe vera
3 to 4 times a day. Don’t use local anesthetic sprays and creams.
•
For 2nd Degree Burns:
Immerse the affected area in cold (not ice) water until the pain subsides. Dip clean cloths in cold water, wring
them out, and apply them to the burned area for as long as an hour. Blot the area dry. Do not rub. Don’t use
antiseptic sprays or creams. Do not break any blisters. If the blisters break on their own, apply an antibacterial
spray or ointment and keep the area wrapped with a sterile dressing. Once dried, dress the area with a single
layer of loose gauze that does not stick to the skin. Keep it in place with bandage tape that is placed well away
from the burned area. Change the dressing the next day and every 2 days after that. Prop the burned area higher
than the rest of the body, if possible. See a health care provider if the burn does not improve after 2 days, more
than the outer skin layer has been affected, or more than 3 inches in diameter of the skin has burned.
For 3rd Degree Burns:
If charring of the skin occurs (the skin looks black and white),
and pain is not severe, seek health care immediately.
Sore throats are common complaints
from college students.
SYMPTOMS MAY INCLUDE:
• Soreness or pain in the throat, especially
when you swallow or talk
• Swollen neck glands
• The back of the throat and/or the tonsils
look bright red or have pus deposits or
white spots
• Sores on the roof of the mouth
• Fatigue
• Fever
• Postnasal drip
• Bad breath
• Headache, and/or earache
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
CAUSES:
Bacterial or viral infection, such as strep
throat, tonsillitis, or mononucleosis
Shouting for long periods of time
Tobacco or marijuana smoke
Air pollution, dry air, and/or
allergies
Post nasal drip
Self-induced vomiting
Infection transmitted through oral sex
With a sore throat, is it
very hard for you to
breathe, are you unable to
swallow your own saliva,
or are you unable to say
more than 3 or 4 words
between breaths?
Do you have any of the following
problems with sore throat:
• Fever
• Swollen, enlarged neck glands
• Headache
• General aching feeling
• Ear pain
• Bad breath
• Skin rash
• Loss of appetite and severe fatigue
• Vomiting
• Abdominal pain
• Chest pain
• Dark urine
• Bright red or white deposits on the
tonsils or back of the throat
Has even a mild sore
throat lasted more
than 2 weeks?
Self-Care: Gargle every 2
to 3 hours with a solution of
1/4 teaspoon of salt and 1/2
cup of warm water. Drink
warm beverages. For strep
throat, drink and eat cold
liquids and foods. . Don’t
smoke. Avoid spicy foods.
Suck on hard candy or
lozenges. Take an over-thecounter medication for
pain.
Sprains: A sprain happens when you overstretch or tear a ligament. A joint is affected,
but there is no dislocation or fracture. Symptoms are rapid swelling, bruising, and a
warm feeling at the injured site. This is usually caused by accident, falls, or injury.
Strains: A strain is an injury to the muscles or tendons. This is usually caused by
overuse. Symptoms are pain, tenderness, swelling, and bruising.
Broken Bones: Cracks in or fractures of the bone. Requires X-rays and immediate
medical care. Casts may be needed.
Is a head, neck, or spinal injury
suspected based on the following
symptoms:
• Paralysis
• Inability to move
extremities
• Odd positioning of head
or neck
• Immediate neck pain
Did a strain, sprain, or break occur
with great force from a vehicle
accident or a fall from a high
place?
DO NOT MOVE
VICTIM OR
ALLOW HIM/
HER TO
MOVE. Keep
head and neck
completely still.
CALL 911!
Are any of the
following present:
• A bone sticks out or
bones in the injured
part make a grating
sound
• An injured body
part looks crooked
or mis-shapen
• A loss of feeling
occurs in the injured
body part
• You are unable to
move or put weight
on the injured part
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Common Sports
Injuries:
Tears or irritation of
the achilles tendon
Blisters due to
friction
Muscle soreness
Shinsplints
Stress fractures
Broken bones
Dislocations
Have all injuries
checked out at the
ECU Student Health
Service
and take
advantage of
the sports
medicine
clinic available.
Are you so distressed that you
have recurrent thoughts of
suicide or death and/or do you
have impulses to commit violence?
Do you have any of
911 or The Center for Counseling
these problems:
and Student Development-328-6661
• Anxiety
College years can be great fun, but they can also bring a lot of
• Nervousness
stress. Adjusting to new surroundings, people, and expectations,
• Crying spells
academic/social/financial demands, making choices about the
• Difficulties sleeping
future, relationship difficulties, and other stressors can add up.
• Confusion about how to handle your
Stress is the way you react to changes. High stress levels can
problems; feeling overwhelmed
make you less productive and can even increase your chances of
• Withdrawing from friends and family
getting an illness. Find positive ways to deal with your stress
• Academic problems due to stress
and seek help when needed.
• Using alcohol or other drugs to cope
• Flashbacks, haunted by painful memories
Self-Care:
• Irritability, moodiness
Take care of yourself. Manage your time and avoid procrastinating.
• Feeling emotionally numb or detached
Eat healthy meals that give you the maximum amount of energy.
• Depression
Get plenty of rest. Enjoy regular exercise. Avoid caffeine, alcohol,
and other drugs. Don’t over-commit yourself. Balance social and
academic obligations. Make a list of stressors and focus on reducing
The Center for
them one at a time. Help others. Laugh. Set time aside for “me”
Counseling and
everyday. Take a break. Listen to music. It’s okay to cry. Learn
Student Development
new ways to accept things. Prepare for stressful situations.
328-6661
See the “big” picture. Talk with someone.
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are those that occur in the kidneys, ureters (which connect the kidneys to the
bladder), the bladder, and the urethra. The risk of getting a UTI is greater for sexually active females, females
who use a diaphragm as for contraception, males and females who have had UTIs in the past, and anyone with a
condition that does not allow urine to pass freely, such as kidney stones.
Do you have all of these
symptoms of a kidney
infection:
• Fever and shaking
chills
• Pain in one or both
sides of your back
• Nausea, vomiting
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Antibiotics are the
usual treatment. If
symptoms persist, it is
important for you to
return to the health
care provider.
PREVENTION:
Drink 8 glasses of water a day. Drink juice
made from unsweetened cranberry juice
concentrate. Avoid alcohol, spicy foods, and
caffeine which can irritate the bladder. Get
plenty of rest. Go to the bathroom as soon as
you feel the urge. Don’t have sexual
intercourse until the infection is cleared.
SYMPTOMS:
A strong need to urinate
Urinating more often than usual
A sharp pain or burning in the
urethra when urine is passed
Blood in the urine
Feeling like the bladder is still full
after urine is passed
Pain in the abdomen, back, or
sides
Chills, fever
Nausea, vomiting
Because symptoms of the urinary
tract can be similar to those caused
by other medical conditions, it is
important to see a health care
provider for a diagnosis and proper
treatment. Call 328-6841 for an
appointment.
Vaginal problems include pain, discharge, abnormal bleeding, irritation, and/or infections. Infections may or
may not be sexually transmitted. Common vaginal problems include bacterial vaginosis, pelvic inflammatory
disease (PID), vaginal yeast infections, vaginitis, and sexually transmitted infections.
Treatment depends on the cause. Therefore, it is important to be diagnosed by a health care provider to
receive proper treatment.
Do you have any of the following:
• Vaginal pain that spreads upward
to the pelvis and you are unable
to walk due to the pain
• Very heavy vaginal bleeding
along with dizziness or lightheadedness, pale and moist skin,
extreme shortness of breath,
severe abdominal pain
• Vaginal irritation or pain with
fever and shaking chills, pain in
one or both sides or your back,
nausea/vomiting
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
PREVENTION OF
YEAST INFECTIONS:
Avoid products that change the
vaginal environment (douches,
feminine hygiene sprays)
Use unscented toilet paper.
Limit your intake of sugar. Sugar
promotes the growth of yeast.
Eat yogurt and milk that contains
live cultures of lactobacillus
acidophilus.
Take showers. Avoid bubble baths.
Keep the vagina clean and dry.
Wear cotton or cotton-lined
underwear.
Don’t wear tight restrictive
garments (girdles, tight blue jeans)
Wear knee or thigh highs instead of
pantyhose.
SELF-CARE FOR
YEAST INFECTIONS
If you have a history of yeast
infections and current symptoms
are the same and you have used
an over-the-counter remedy
successfully in the past, use the
same or similar product (such as
Monistat and Gyne-Lotrimin).
Avoid having sexual intercourse
until symptoms are completely
gone, as re-infection may occur.
If symptoms do not clear up, or
if they return after treatment,
see a health care provider.
For possible vaginal infections/
problems, make an appointment
at the ECU Student
Health Service.
Vomiting is throwing up the contents of the stomach. Dry heaves may precede or
follow vomiting. Nausea is when you feel like you are going to throw up.
COMMON CAUSES:
• Viruses in the intestines
• Some medications, such as antibiotics and
oral contraceptives
• Spoiled food/food poisoning
• Eating or drinking too much, especially
alcohol
• Motion sickness
• Morning sickness in pregnant females
OTHER MEDICAL CONDITIONS:
Labrythitis: An inflammation of an area in the ear that usually results from
an upper respiratory infection.
A concussion from a head injury: Can indicate serious injury.
Stomach ulcers
Hepatitis: Inflammation of the liver.
Meningitis: Inflammation of membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord.
•
•
•
•
SELF-CARE:
Don’t eat solid foods. Don’t
drink milk.
Stay hydrated. Drink clear
liquids (water, sports drinks,
ginger ale, etc.). Take smalls
sips and drink only 1 to 2
ounces at a time. Eat ice chips
if nothing else will stay down.
Gradually return to a regular
diet, but wait 8 hours from the
last time you vomited. Start
with bland foods like toast,
crackers, and rice that are easy
to digest. Avoid spicy foods.
Don’t smoke, drink alcohol, or
take aspirin.
For motion sickness, try an
over-the-counter anti-nausea
medication such as Dramamine,
available in the ECU Student
Health Service pharmacy.
Besides vomiting, do you
have:
• High fever
• Stiff neck
• Lethargy (Weakness)
• Severe headache
• Purple or bumpy red
skin rash
• Sensitivity to light
After a recent case of the
flu or chicken pox with
sudden repeated vomiting, do you have:
• Pain in the upper right
area of the abdomen
• Rapid mental status
changes (agitation,
confusion, irritability,
delirium)
• Increased pulse and
breathing rate
• Lethargy (Weakness)
• Loss of
consciousness
Do dry heaves and/or vomiting
occur after a recent head injury or
do you vomit true, red blood?
With vomiting, are any signs of
drug or alcohol poisoning present:
• Confusion; lethargy
(weakness); slurred speech
• Impaired motor functioning
• Shallow breathing
• Clammy skin
• Weak, but rapid pulse
• Agitation, combativeness
• Seizure
• Unconsciousness
With vomiting, do you have signs
of an acute kidney infection:
• Fever and shaking chills
• Pain in one or both sides of
your back
After repeated vomiting,
do you have signs of
dehydration:
• Sunken, dry, or tearless
eyes
• Dry mouth, tongue, and
lips
• No or low amount of
urine passed; dark
yellow
• Lightheadedness
• Dry skin
• Dizziness, confusion,
weakness
• Increase in breathing
and heart rate
• Severe thirst (may come
and go)
With nausea or vomiting, do the
whites of your eyes or does your
skin look yellow?
With nausea or vomiting, do
you have signs of a bladder
infection:
• Burning or stinging feeling
when you pass urine
• Passing urine a lot more often than usual, often in small
amounts
• Bloody or cloudy urine
• Pain in your abdomen or
over your bladder
• Fever
Do you have stomach pain that
lasts for more than 2 hours, interferes with your activities, and
keeps hurting after you vomit?
Do you induce vomiting after
overeating or to lose weight?
Are you vomiting medicine
that is necessary for you to
take?
WHENVER THERE IS UNCERTAINTY ABOUT
SYMPTOMS, SEE A HEALTH CARE PROVIDER.
Make an appointment by calling 328-6841.
If you take care of yourself, you will maximize your potential to do well at East Carolina University.
• Get plenty of sleep. Set a sleep routine and stick to it.
• Eat a balanced, healthy diet. Talk to a campus nutritionist by calling 328-2632 or 328-6794.
• Incorporate exercise or activity into your routine. Visit the Student Recreation Center.
• Avoid smoking and tobacco products. If you need help quitting, stop by the ECU Student Health Service.
• If you drink alcohol, do so in moderation (only if you’re 21 or older!).
• Avoid illegal drug use.
• Set limits for yourself. Be ready to deal with peer pressure.
• Set goals for yourself. Challenge yourself to achieve.
• Get regular physicals/wellness exams. Women should have a Pap smear/pelvic exam annually.
• Do self-examinations (breast, testicles, skin).
• Get immunized. Hepatitis B and meningitis vaccines (and others) are available.
• Get screened. (annual Pap smear/pelvic exams, testicular exams, blood pressure, cholesterol, vision)
• Practice safer sex. Know how to use your contraception correctly and use it consistently. Protect yourself against
infections. Get tested as necessary.
• Plan.
• Think of consequences, short-and long-term.
• Develop healthy relationships.
• Be cautious. Your safety comes first. Trust your instincts. Do not walk alone. Call campus police for a safe
escort. Report crimes and suspicious behavior. Use the “buddy” system. Watch out for your peers.
• Educate yourself. Take advantage of offered health programs around campus. Talk to your health care provider.
• Take medications as prescribed.
• Manage your stress.
• Know your resources and take advantage of them.
THE ECU STUDENT HEALTH SERVICE
WELLNESS EDUCATION
DEPARTMENT
THE RESOURCE ROOM
Videos
CD-ROMS
Books
Brochures
Fact Sheets
Teaching Models
Stop by the ECU Student Health Service Resource
Room, where you can find information for self-study or
to use for papers, presentations, and projects!
Interested in Promoting Health on Campus?
Become a Healthy PIRATES peer health educator!
We’ll train you to do creative, fun programming on various
health topics, and you can get academic credit! Be a role
model and leader for fellow students. Make friends. Have
fun. Call for more information, and sign up today!
INDIVIDUAL CONSULTATIONS
Make an appointment with a health professional to talk about health concerns or to get
more information on a particular topic by
calling 328-6794.
PRESENTATIONS/PROGRAMS/
AWARENESS EVENTS
Watch for health programming around
campus and plan on attending.
GOT QUESTIONS?
Send your health-related questions to:
[email protected]
REFERRALS
Don’t know where to go for information on a
particular topic? Ask us. We’re here to help!
328-6794
ADVANCE DIRECTIVES:
Generally, an advance directive is a written document you prepare stating how you want medical
decisions made if you lose the ability to make decisions for yourself. The two most commonly
prepared advance directives are:
• a "Living Will"
• a "Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care"
The value of an advance directive is that it allows you to state your choices for health care or to
name someone to make those choices for you, if you become unable to make decisions about your
medical treatment. In short, an advance directive ensures your right to accept or refuse medical
care. You can say "yes" to treatment you want, or "no" to treatment you don't want. Talk to your
family about your decisions.
ORGAN DONATION:
Organ donation saves thousands of lives. If you are interested in being an organ donor, do the
following:
1) Say “yes” to organ donation on your driver’s license.
2) Sign and carry a donor card.
3) Express your wishes to your family.
The most important thing you can do is to discuss organ donation with your family because the
decision of your organ and tissue donation is ultimately made by your legal next-of-kin at the time
of death.
For more information about advance directives or organ donation, stop by
the ECU Student Health Service.
Q. Will signing a
donor card affect
the quality of
medical care I
receive?
A. Absolutely
not. Medical care
is always based on
what is necessary
to save a patient's
life. Patients can
be considered for
donation only
after they are
declared legally
dead.
HOURS OF
OPERATION:
Fall & Spring Semesters:
Monday-Thursday
8:00 am—7:00 pm
Friday
8:00 am—5:00 pm
General Information………………(252) 328-6841
Appointments……………………..(252) 328-6841
Immunizations…………………….(252) 328-6841
Pharmacy………………………….(252) 328-6793
Wellness Education………….……(252) 328-6794
Saturday & Sunday
9:00 am—Noon
Website: www.ecu.edu/studenthealth
Monday-Thursday
7:30 am—5:00 pm
Email: [email protected]
Address: ECU Student Health Service
East Carolina University
Greenville, NC 27858
Summer Sessions:
Friday
7:30 am—11:30 am