infection lifestyle tips for patients

Overview

Infections are caused by germs such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Most infections are mild, but some can become serious. This article focuses on everyday lifestyle habits that can help your immune system stay strong and reduce your chances of getting an infection.

Infections are very common. Most people have several minor infections, like colds, each year.

Anyone can get an infection, but people with weakened immune systems, young children, older adults, and those with certain chronic conditions are at higher risk.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Fever or chills
• Cough or sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Fatigue and tiredness
• Body aches or headaches
• Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
• Redness, swelling, or pain at a wound site

Symptoms in children

• Irritability or fussiness
• Poor feeding or reduced appetite
• Sleepiness or low energy
• Fever (sometimes high)
• Cough, cold, or ear pulling

Symptoms in older adults

• Confusion or changes in thinking
• Feeling weak or unsteady
• Loss of appetite
• Low body temperature instead of fever
• Increased tiredness or reduced mobility

Causes

Main causes

• Bacteria (like strep throat or some chest infections)
• Viruses (like colds, flu, and COVID-19)
• Fungi (like thrush or athlete's foot)
• Parasites (like certain food or water-borne infections)

Risk factors

• Not washing hands regularly
• Having a weakened immune system (from illness or certain medicines)
• Being in crowded or poorly ventilated places
• Touching your face, eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands
• Not keeping up to date with recommended vaccines
• Certain chronic health conditions, such as diabetes or lung disease
• Smoking or excessive alcohol use

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• Difficulty breathing or chest pain
• Confusion or feeling very drowsy
• A severe headache or stiff neck
• A rash that does not fade when pressed with a glass
• Vomiting repeatedly with inability to keep fluids down
• Signs of dehydration

Book a routine appointment if:

• A fever that lasts more than a few days
• Cough or cold symptoms that are getting worse instead of better
• Symptoms that do not improve after a week
• Repeated infections
• A wound that becomes red, swollen, warm, or painful

Diagnosis

To diagnose an infection, a healthcare provider will ask about your symptoms, examine you, and sometimes order tests to find the cause.

Tests that may be done

• Throat swab
• Urine test
• Blood tests
• Chest X-ray or other imaging
• Stool sample
• Swabs from the nose or wound

What to expect at your appointment

Your healthcare provider may ask about your medical history, recent travel, contact with sick people, and any medicines you take. Depending on your symptoms, they may recommend simple tests. Results can take from minutes to a few days. Be prepared to describe when your symptoms started and how they have changed.

Treatment

Treatment for an infection depends on the cause. Viral infections often need only supportive care, while bacterial infections may require antibiotics. Your healthcare provider will decide the right approach for you.

Self-care at home

• Rest and get plenty of sleep
• Drink enough fluids, like water or clear soups
• Eat small, nutritious meals if you feel up to it
• Use a cool compress to reduce fever discomfort
• Avoid alcohol and smoking to help your body recover
• Wash your hands often to avoid spreading germs to others

Medical treatments

For some infections, your doctor may prescribe antiviral, antibiotic, or antifungal medicines. These are only given when needed. Always take any prescribed medicine exactly as directed and finish the full course, even if you feel better. Never share medicines or take someone else's prescription.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is rarely needed for most everyday infections, but it may be necessary for some complicated infections, such as an abscess, wound infection, or an infected area that needs draining. Your healthcare team will explain if this applies to you.

Living with this condition

If you are prone to infections or caring for someone who is, focus on small daily habits: wash your hands often, avoid close contact with sick people, and keep shared surfaces clean. Pay attention to new symptoms and act early.

Lifestyle tips

• Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
• Use alcohol-based hand sanitiser when soap is not available
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your elbow when coughing or sneezing
• Avoid touching your face with unwashed hands
• Get enough sleep each night (7–9 hours for most adults)
• Keep up to date with recommended vaccines
• Stay home when you feel unwell to avoid spreading germs

Diet and exercise

A balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins helps support your immune system. Regular gentle exercise, like walking or stretching, can also boost your overall health. If you feel too unwell, rest is more important than exercise. Drink enough water to stay hydrated.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Being ill or worrying about infections can cause stress and anxiety. It is normal to feel frustrated or worried. Talk to someone you trust, and consider relaxation techniques like deep breathing or mindfulness. If you are struggling with your mental health, reach out to your healthcare provider for support.

Prevention

Many infections can be prevented with simple habits like hand hygiene, avoiding close contact with sick people, and keeping your immune system strong. While you cannot prevent every infection, these steps lower your risk.

Vaccines

Vaccines are one of the best ways to prevent infections like flu, COVID-19, pneumonia, and whooping cough. Talk to your healthcare provider about which vaccines are recommended for you based on your age, health, and travel plans.

Screening programmes

There is no single screening test for all infections, but routine check-ups can help identify conditions that increase your risk, like diabetes or weak immunity. Your provider can tell you if any screening is useful for you.

Complications

If left untreated

• An infection can spread to other parts of the body, such as the lungs, blood, or brain
• Dehydration from fever, vomiting, or diarrhea
• Breathing problems from severe respiratory infections
• Chronic fatigue or long recovery times
• Organ damage in severe cases

Long-term outlook

Most infections resolve with time, rest, and supportive care. Even serious infections can often be treated successfully, especially when caught early. With good prevention habits and timely medical care, you can protect your health and recover well.

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