College life can mean close quarters, long days, and germs everywhere—so it’s normal to feel under the weather now and then. But how do you know when it’s time to check in with Campus Health (or another medical provider)?
Here’s a student-friendly guide to help you decide when it’s more than just a passing bug.
Fever
Seek care if your fever:
- Is over 100.4°F (38°C)
- Lasts more than 2–3 days
- Doesn’t respond to fever-reducing medication
- Comes with a rash
Throat
If you have a sore throat, get checked out if:
- Pain comes on suddenly or severely (like overnight)
- You have a sore throat without other symptoms
- Your neck glands feel swollen and tender
- You’re having trouble breathing
- There’s a rash or fever
Cough
Call your provider if your cough:
- Lasts more than 2 weeks
- Comes with shortness of breath, wheezing, chest pain, or trouble breathing
- Comes with fever or a rash
Fatigue
Watch for:
- Fatigue that sticks around for more than 8–10 days
- Fatigue with a rash
Stomach Issues
Seek care if you experience:
- Persistent vomiting
- Weakness or abdominal pain that lasts more than 2 hours
- Diarrhea that doesn’t improve or gets worse after 48 hours
- Yellow, green, bloody, or frothy stool (more than once)
- Signs of dehydration, like dizziness when standing up
Ear Pain
See a provider anytime you have:
- Persistent or sharp ear pain
Chronic Conditions (like diabetes)
If you have insulin-dependent diabetes, follow your sick day plan. Get help if:
- You can’t keep fluids down due to nausea or vomiting
- Your blood glucose stays over 250
- You have moderate or high ketones
General Illness
Get medical attention if:
- You don’t feel better after 10 days
- Symptoms get worse after 5–7 days
- You have a headache that won’t go away
- You develop a rash with any illness
- You’re just worried about your symptoms — trust your gut
Need Help Now?
Campus Health is here for you. Call 919-966-2281 anytime for 24/7 nurse advice, make an appointment online, or visit Same Day Care or Student Stores Mini Clinic during open hours.