When you’re not feeling well, it’s always tempting to stay home and rest. But according to one study, more than half of people still go to work when they’re sick. Not only does this mean your co-workers are more likely to get sick, but you’ll probably be sick longer if you push yourself. If you aren’t sure if you should stay home, here are some symptoms that should automatically trigger a sick day and possibly a visit to the doctor. 

5 Signs You’re Too Sick to Work

1. A Stuffy Nose With Fever or Pain

If you have the sniffles or a stuffy nose without any other symptoms, you may be dealing with nothing more than allergies, and going to work is fine. However, if you have nasal congestion with a fever or pain around your eyes, in your cheekbones, or your teeth, it’s possible you have a sinus infection and need antibiotics. Call a doctor instead of heading into the office.

2. A Headache With Other Symptoms

If your head is pounding and you have a sore throat, can’t stop sneezing, and your body aches, it’s possible you have the flu. This is even more likely if you also have a fever. The sooner you get to the doctor for a diagnosis, the better, so let your boss know you won’t be in, then get to the medical clinic for treatment. 

3. Pink Eye

If you wake up with red, crusty, eyes oozing yellow or white discharge, call in sick. You most likely have conjunctivitis, a very contagious and easily spread infection. A quick visit to your doctor or urgent care center will confirm the diagnosis and get you some prescription antibiotic ointment or drops to clear it up quickly. 

4. Vomiting or Diarrhea 

You’re probably unlikely to even want to go to work if you have symptoms of a stomach virus such as vomiting or diarrhea, but even if you think you can make it in, stay home. Although some of the most common viruses can be contagious for up to two weeks, you can typically go back to work a full 24 hours after the symptoms subside. If your symptoms continue longer than two days, you have a high fever, or there’s blood or pus in your vomit or stool, visit an urgent care clinic. 

5. Sore Throat With Fever

A sore throat that comes from a postnasal drip from a minor cold or allergies isn’t usually a reason to call in. However, if you have a severe sore throat accompanied by a fever, chills, and sweats—and especially if you see white patches on your tonsils—there’s a good chance you have strep throat. It’s contagious with worsening symptoms, so avoid the office and see a doctor as soon as you can for an antibiotic. 

If you aren't feeling well, seeing a doctor at Palladium Primary Care can help you feel better quickly so you can get back to work. Serving the High Point and Greensboro, NC, area, the team is experienced in offering compassionate, expert care for a wide range of ailments from urgent care to regular checkups. Dr. G. Osei-Bonsu, M.D., is board-certified in internal medicine and has more than a decade of experience with patients of all ages. Call (336) 841-8500 to schedule an appointment today or visit them online to learn more about their services.