In today’s social society, germs are everywhere and we are constantly exposed to illness throughout the day. Some can be found in obvious places such as public restrooms, but others may be masked in areas you may never have considered. Below is a list of seven secret ways you’re making yourself sick.
Improper Hand Washing
You may be standing at the sink and running your hands under water, but if you’re not using soap and scrubbing, this action is pointless. Wash your hands for at least 20 seconds with soap and warm water to ensure you’re getting rid of germs.
Sharing Utensils
Germs love to reside in people’s mouths, so when you’re sharing utensils, you’re also sharing germs! According to Dental Associates of Tampa, most diseases are spread by the mouth, whether physically or airborne. If you’re sharing food with someone, put portions on separate plates rather than passing utensils.
Lack of Proper Cleaning
Water alone isn’t enough to clean dirty dishes. Whether by hand or in the dishwasher, add soap and warm water and scrub thoroughly before the next use. You should also take care of your home by sanitizing things like doorknobs, handles, windows and the baseboards. A clean house means less germs and also less allergens.
Missing Checkups
Many diseases can remain dormant for years without symptoms, and the only way to truly know if you’re healthy is by seeing a doctor. And not just children, according to a family dentistry in Tampa FL, adults should also get physicals once a year. Yearly trips to the family dentist are also crucial since disease can breed in your mouth and between teeth.
Avoiding Vaccinations
Whether it’s a tetanus shot or a flu shot, vaccinations have been approved for a reason: they work. Making sure all your vaccinations are up to date is an easy way to avoid illness.
Sick Days
Germs are easily spread in the workplace, mostly because people insist on going to work even if they’re contagious. Pay attention to your body and take a sick day when needed to ensure you get yourself healthy, and keep others that way as well.
Avoiding Exercise
Exercise is key to staying healthy at every age. It doesn’t matter if you play a sport, frequent a gym, or take dance classes, just find some sort of exercise that you enjoy and stick with it. When you are lethargic, you won’t be able to keep your immune healthy as well. Stay active and get some fresh air whenever possible.
Avoiding germs altogether is next to impossible, but doing your best to refrain from getting sick is entirely in your control. You may not be healthy 100% of the time, but you can at least do your part to maintain a healthy lifestyle. With the proper attention and actions you can stop spreading germs and sicknesses.
