Living Alone Guide Part 12: When You're Sick

Being sick alone is really rough

The first time I had a high fever while living alone was brutal. I wanted to go to the doctor but couldn't move, had no medicine, nothing to eat... That's when I realized I need to be prepared.

1. Prepare in Advance

Emergency Food

• Instant porridge or soup pouches
• Electrolyte drinks
• Bottled water
• Ready meals (microwaveable)

When you're sick, even cooking is impossible. Stock up on things you just need to heat up.

2. Cold/Flu

Basic Care

• Rest well (seriously, take a day off work)
• Drink lots of fluids
• Stay warm
• Take cold medicine

When You Have Fever

• Check with thermometer (take fever reducer if above 38°C/100°F)
• Cool down with lukewarm cloth
• See a doctor if 39°C/102°F persists

What to Eat

• Porridge, soup
• Warm water, honey water
• Electrolyte drinks
• Fruit (for vitamins)

3. Stomach Bug

Basic Care

• Preventing dehydration is most important
• Sip electrolyte drinks frequently
• Take anti-diarrhea if severe
• Avoid spicy/greasy food

What to Eat

• Plain rice porridge
• Bananas
• Plain toast (no butter)
• Water, electrolyte drinks

4. When to See a Doctor

Go Immediately If

• High fever (39°C+/102°F+) for more than a day
• Blood in vomit or stool
• Severe persistent stomach pain
• Confusion or disorientation
• Difficulty breathing

When You Can't Get There Alone

• Call emergency services
• Contact someone nearby
• Use telehealth for minor symptoms

5. Know Your Local Medical Services

Research in Advance

• Nearest clinic/doctor
• Hospital with ER
• Late-night/weekend pharmacy
• 24-hour convenience store (emergency supplies)

Useful Apps/Sites

• Emergency room finder apps
• Pharmacy locator apps
• Telehealth apps for minor issues

6. Tips When Sick

Work/School

• Don't push through - resting one day helps recovery
• Don't feel bad about calling in sick
• Telehealth can provide sick notes too

Mental Health

• Easy to feel down when sick alone
• At least call family/friends
• If it's serious, don't hesitate to ask for help

7. Checklist

Prepare Ahead

• ☐ Stock basic medicines
• ☐ Have emergency food ready
• ☐ Get a thermometer
• ☐ Know nearby medical facilities

When Sick

• ☐ Stay hydrated
• ☐ Rest, don't push yourself
• ☐ See doctor if symptoms worsen

Wrap-up

Being sick is the hardest part of living alone. Being prepared makes a huge difference. And if it gets really bad, don't hesitate to ask for help.

Next up, we'll cover building relationships with neighbors. Do you even know who lives next door?