common college ailments and illnesses
- Upper Respiratory Infection An upper respiratory infection is usually referred to as the common cold. ...
- Influenza Influenza, commonly called the flu, can spread rapidly once one person on campus has acquired it. ...
- Mononucleosis Mononucleosis, or mono, is one of the worst illnesses that spreads on college campuses because it lasts for a longer period of time. ...
- Gastroenteritis ...
- Conjunctivitis ...
- Meningitis ...
Full Answer
What are the most common illnesses in college?
Most Common College Illnesses 1 The Flu. Influenza, commonly known as the flu, can strike at any time of year. ... 2 Upper Respiratory Infections. Illnesses that leave you hacking, coughing, and just feeling miserable are a typical part of dorm life. 3 Mono. Mono is very common among teens, but can occur in young adults. ... 4 Stomach Bug. ...
Why are college students so vulnerable to meningitis?
Meningitis: Why College Students are so Vulnerable. Meningococcal disease is bacterial and causes bloodstream infections and meningitis. College students, especially those living in residence halls, are prone to contracting the disease because of their close proximity to each other.
What are the health risks of college students?
Such risks come from living in dormitories or close quarters with other students, through the stress of being away from home and the pressure of academic life, or through the use of drugs and alcohol. As of fall 2019, around 41 percent of college studentsrated their healthas very good, while only 11 percent stated their health was fair or poor.
Why do college students get sick so often?
Because of the stress of cramming for finals at the end of the semester, it is a time when kids are likely paying less attention to their sleeping, eating, and general health habits. As a result, illness on college campuses tend to spike during this time.
How to treat a viral infection?
Can you get a cold in a dorm?
What diseases do college students get?
Most Common College IllnessesThe Flu. Influenza, commonly known as the flu, can strike at any time of year. ... Upper Respiratory Infections. Illnesses that leave you hacking, coughing, and just feeling miserable are a typical part of dorm life. ... Mono. ... Stomach Bug. ... Getting enough sleep. ... Getting Your Vaccines. ... Washing your hands.
What diseases are most concerning for college students?
Regardless of the cause, students and parents should be aware of these common illnesses that plague college campuses so they can take necessary preventative measures where possible.Upper Respiratory Infection. ... Meningitis. ... Gastroenteritis. ... Influenza. ... Athlete's Foot. ... Human Papillomavirus (HPV)More items...•
What are the 5 most common health issues reported by college students?
The Biggest Health Risks for College StudentsAnxiety and depression. Mental health takes a toll in college, increasing the risk for anxiety and depression. ... Meningitis. ... Other illnesses. ... Sexually transmitted infections. ... Poor sleeping, exercise, and eating habits.
What is the number one health threat to college students?
According to a study by the American Public Health Association, suicide is the leading cause of death among college students—a danger that can be the result of many factors, including the ones outlined here.
Why do college students get meningitis?
Essentially, meningitis is more common in college students because of the nature of the setting. The young adults can't escape large groups of people with constant close contact and proximity. Meningitis infection requires shared respiratory and throat secretions.
Why do college kids get so sick?
The combination of stress, lack of getting enough sleep, and being around lots of people at college can cause students to get sick more frequently. When you are sick, much of your energy will be used to fight the illness.
What are the 5 risks that colleges are highly exposed to?
What Risks are Present in Schools and Colleges?Fire Safety (including arson);Access and Egress;Electrical Safety - Fixed wiring & portable appliances;Water Hygiene;Asbestos;Hazardous substances - chemicals & biological (including first aid);Work at height;Manual Handling - objects and people;More items...
How does college affect your health?
People with higher levels of education tend to have improved brain development, less biological aging and better understanding and compliance with healthy behaviors, studies show. Furthermore, research shows that education is associated with a longer life.
What are the 5 common mental health challenges students face in college?
This guide introduces the top five mental health challenges facing college students today, with advice on how to identify potential conditions and get support.Depression. ... Anxiety. ... Suicidal Ideation and Intent. ... Eating Disorders. ... Substance Misuse.
Which college has the highest depression rate?
This article states several important statistics on college students' mental health in America. Most notably, this article finds that Penn has the most depressed student body in United States, topping a list of 50 other schools in the country.
What is the leading cause of death among teens?
AccidentsLeading causes of deaths among adolescents aged 15–19 years: Accidents (unintentional injuries) Homicide. Suicide.
Why do college students struggle with mental health?
Entering college can trigger mental health disorders Even if someone doesn't develop a formal disorder, they might still struggle. It's difficult to navigate the stress of the transition to college. An overwhelming workload, unfamiliar environment, and other stressors can lead to a mental health crisis.
What are some common infections that one may encounter when working closely with other students?
Here are five common infections/diseases among college students:Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STD) ... Bacterial Meningitis. ... Mononucleosis. ... Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA) ... Strep Throat.
Is strep common in college?
Strep throat is one of the most common illnesses in college students.
Common College Illnesses - Complete Care
College campuses are known for many things. Unfortunately, the presence of various illnesses and highly contagious diseases is one of them. There are a variety of causes at play – college students often deal with high stress, irregular sleeping patterns, poor diets and may not be accustomed to taking care of themselves.
Common Illnesses | University Health Services
Allergies; Colds and Flu; Conjunctivitis ("pink eye“) Diarrhea; Headaches; Mononucleosis; Stomach Aches; Allergies. Allergies are an immune response triggered by allergens, an ordinarily harmful substance.
How to treat a viral infection?
Doctors recommend staying hydrated, getting plenty of rest, and taking general OTC medications such as Tylenol.
Can you get a cold in a dorm?
Illnesses that leave you hacking, coughing, and just feeling miserable are a typical part of dorm life. An upper respiratory infection, or the common cold, is extremely contagious and easily spread on a college campus. Usually, the only thing you can do is drink plenty of fluids, rest, and wait to recover. However, an infection requires medical attention when it involves a fever over 105 degrees and lasts more than one week.
Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STD)
There are about 20 million cases of STDs diagnosed in the U.S. every year, and nearly half of them occur in people between the ages of 15 and 24. The best way to avoid diseases such as Chlamydia, syphilis, HPV and HIV (other than strict abstinence) is consistent use of male or female condoms.
Bacterial Meningitis
About 4,100 cases of bacterial meningitis are diagnosed each year, and first-year students who live in college dormitories are at an increased risk because pathogens can spread easily in close quarters, particularly when people’s immune systems are weakened by stress and unhealthy habits.
Mononucleosis
Also known as “mono,” this viral infection causes sore throat, swollen glands, fever and severe fatigue. It isn’t highly contagious, but healthy individuals shouldn’t share drinking glasses or kiss a patient until four to six weeks after someone’s symptoms have cleared.
Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA)
Antibiotic-resistant bacteria that cause skin infections can thrive in places that are dirty, such as shared dormitory bathrooms or gymnasiums. This makes it important to keep the skin clean, dress all wounds and scrapes, avoid contact with the damaged skin of infected people, and avoid sharing personal items such as soap, towels or razors.
Strep Throat
Strep throat is a sore throat caused by an infection with group A strep bacteria, which can spread easily from person to person through direct contact or as a result of a cough or sneeze. Other symptoms include fever, headache, swollen glands and swollen tonsils. Good hand hygiene will help protect people from infection.
What is the name of the disease that causes a person to have a bad nose?
However, in a few individuals, presence of these bacteria in the nose or throat precedes 2 serious illnesses: meningococcemia and meningitis . Meningococcal disease can affect the bloodstream (meningococcemia) or brain and spinal cord ( meningitis ), and sometimes it affects both the brain and bloodstream.
What is meningococcal disease?
Meningococcal disease is caused by a bacterium called Neisseria meningitides (often called meningococcus). There are different serogroups (types) of meningococcus. The serogroups that most commonly cause disease worldwide are A, B, C, W, and Y. Serogroups B, C, and Y most commonly cause disease in the United States.
Do college students have meningococci?
College students, especially freshmen who live in dorms and military recruits, are at an increased risk for meningococcal disease caused by serogroups C and Y compared with others in this age group. Though there have been a number of meningococcal serogroup B outbreaks on college campuses in the past decade, college students are not ...
What diseases can be spread easily in college?
These include (but aren’t limited to): the flu. antibiotic-resistant staph infections. the common cold. mono.
What is the most common illness among college students?
Meningitis is an infection of the meninges, which is protective tissue surrounding the spinal cord and brain. It’s one of the most common serious illnesses among college students. The bacterial form is of particular concern because of its quick onset. It can also lead to serious complications, such as brain damage and physical disability.
How does college affect teens?
College offers years of studying and bonding with others. With all this, your teen will likely experience lack of sleep and a poor diet. They also might not put aside enough time for a proper workout. While sleeping for four hours a night and eating ramen noodles may seem like part of the college experience, such habits can have long-term effects on your child’s health and ability to get through school.
Why is mental health important in college?
Anxiety and depression. Mental health takes a toll in college, increasing the risk for anxiety and depression. With the pressure of exams, grades, and financial aid requirements, your student has a lot on their plate. Your teen is also on their own for the first time and learning how to fit into a whole new environment.
Can college students get STIs?
Sexually transmitted infections. Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) pose risks for college students, as well. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Trusted Source. , up to half of all STIs diagnosed each year occur in people ages 15 to 24. Some STIs can clear up with medications.
Is college an exciting time?
College is an exciting time for students. Yet, as their world opens up to new adventure and possibility, many health risks surround them. From illnesses to unhealthy lifestyle habits, learn about the biggest health concerns facing your college student and what you can do to help.
Can meningitis spread in dorms?
Infectious diseases like meningitis can spread rapidly in dorms, apartments, dining halls, and classrooms. What you can do: The best way to protect your student from meningitis is to make sure they’re vaccinated.
What should students with chronic illnesses know about food?
Students with chronic illnesses affected by food should get to know the director of their food services program before starting college. This person can work with the student to identify safe foods and ensure foods are prepared in a way that won’t exacerbate their illness.
How many people have chronic diseases?
According to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 60% of Americans have a chronic disease, and 40% have two or more. Chronic health conditions can feel overwhelming in college, but plenty of resources and support systems exist to help learners thrive. Whether you’re a high school senior thinking about college options ...
What does the Dean of Students do?
The Dean of Students can help learners with chronic conditions balance the non-academic side of their college experience, including managing their illness, providing access to emotional support services, and coordinating with other departments if the student experiences a medical emergency.
How long do chronic conditions last?
According to the CDC, chronic conditions are diseases or illnesses that last at least one year, create limitations on a person’s daily life, and require ongoing medical services. Here are some of the most common ones that Americans face each day.
Why do students sit at the back of the class?
A: Many students with chronic illnesses prefer to sit towards the back of class in case they need to slip out due to digestive issues, giving themselves an insulin shot, or fidgeting due to a painful flare-up. If a teacher has an assigned seating policy, speak with them early and ask for a seat near the back. This is considered a reasonable accommodation.
Can students with chronic illness communicate?
Students living with chronic illness may be well enough to communicate about their health and take an active role in their own care but unable to actively work or participate in learning. You may think that clear communications and timely responses are a signal of readiness for school, but they’re not.
Do IBS students need a roommate?
Those with IBS, for instance, may desire a private restroom. Individuals with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome may do better without a roommate . Make contact with the Department of Student Housing soon after receiving admittance to learn about your options.
What are the health issues college students face?
The most common health issuesreported by college students in the U.S. include colds, the flu, stomach viruses, and orthopedic injuries such as a sprain or broken bone. However, around 9 percent of students reported having Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD),and 6.5 percent reported having chronic pain. Furthermore, Eating disordersand weight gain are relatively common among college students due to changes in eating habits, lifestyle, and stress. In 2019, around 38 percent of college or university students reported they were slightly overweight or very overweight.
What are the most common drugs used in college?
The most commonly used drugs among college studentsinclude marijuana, prescription stimulants such as ritalin and adderall, and cocaine. In 2019, among college students who had ever used marijuana, around 11 percent stated they had used marijuanadaily or almost daily in the last 90 days.
What percentage of college students are overweight?
In 2019, around 38 percent of college or university students reported they were slightly overweight or very overweight. The stress and lifestyle changes that come with university life don’t only affect physical health but can impact students’ mental health as well.
What percentage of college students agree with health and wellbeing?
As of 2019, around 55 percent of surveyed students in the U.S. agreed or strongly agreed that their health and wellbeing were prioritiesat the college or university they were currently attending.
What percentage of college students in 2020 use marijuana?
Percentage of college students in mental health treatment that also used in marijuana in 2020. 26%. Detailed statistics.
How to treat a viral infection?
Doctors recommend staying hydrated, getting plenty of rest, and taking general OTC medications such as Tylenol.
Can you get a cold in a dorm?
Illnesses that leave you hacking, coughing, and just feeling miserable are a typical part of dorm life. An upper respiratory infection, or the common cold, is extremely contagious and easily spread on a college campus. Usually, the only thing you can do is drink plenty of fluids, rest, and wait to recover. However, an infection requires medical attention when it involves a fever over 105 degrees and lasts more than one week.
