We’ve all been there. You wake up feeling a bit off and wonder if you should tough it out and go to work or take the day off.
In today’s world, the pressure to show up – whether in-person or remote – even when you’re under the weather is stronger than ever. But pushing yourself can sometimes do more harm than good to you and your co-workers.
“People don’t take time off when they are sick for many reasons like paid sick leave or feeling their work is too important to miss,” said Samia Kadri, a family nurse practitioner with Banner Urgent Care. “People also tend to worry about others having to take up the slack when they call into work.”
So when should you call in sick? We share the signs that indicate you need a day for rest, whether you work from home or go into the office.
Why it’s important to recognize when you’re sick
Calling in sick isn’t just about you. It’s about protecting others from catching your illness and ensuring you recover faster. When you push yourself to work while sick, your illness may last longer and spread germs to others. Understanding when to take a sick day helps keep everyone healthier and more productive in the long run.
Key signs you should call in sick
Rest, hydration and getting well should be your top priorities when you aren't feeling well. “People who continue to work while ill aren’t engaged and cannot perform at the highest level,” Kadri said. “Employees should be discouraged from working while feeling unwell.”
The following are signs it’s time to take a rest day:
Fever: A body temperature over 100.4°F (38°C) shows your body is fighting an infection. Rest, hydrate and let your body recover. “Stay home until you’ve been fever-free for at least 24 hours without fever-reducing medications,” Kadri said.
Contagious symptoms: Are you coughing, sneezing or have a runny nose? These symptoms, combined with others like a sore throat, fever and body aches, could mean you have a contagious illness like the flu (influenza), COVID-19 or a common cold.
If you’re spreading germs, you’re not helping anyone. Stay home from work to prevent others from getting sick. If you have the flu or COVID-19, isolate from others in your home so they don’t catch what you have.
“During the first two days of a viral infection, the host is most contagious, so avoid close contact with others,” Kadri said. “Anyone with a severe cough should stay home to avoid spreading infections to others.”
Stomach issues: Diarrhea, vomiting and severe stomach pain are more than just inconvenient. It can be a sign of a viral infection or food poisoning. Plus they make it nearly impossible to focus on work. Take the time you need to recover and make sure you’re not risking anyone else’s health, especially those with weakened immune systems.
Severe fatigue or weakness: Listen to your body if you’re feeling unusually tired or weak. This could be your body’s way of telling you to slow down. Pushing through fatigue can lead to longer recovery times and more mistakes at work. Give yourself a break to recharge.
Worsening chronic conditions: Symptoms can sometimes flare up in those with chronic illnesses like asthma, diabetes or autoimmune conditions like lupus or arthritis. If your condition is acting up and making it hard to work, it’s better to take a sick day. Managing your health should always be a priority.
“Asthmatics should stay home until their breathing is under control,” Kadri said. “This allows them to use breathing treatments while resting to avoid overexerting themselves.”
Mental health matters: Mental health is just as important as physical health. If you’re dealing with severe stress, anxiety or depression and it’s affecting your ability to work, it’s okay to take a sick day and devote a day to self-care. Your mental well-being is important for long-term productivity and happiness.
“Mental health is important in the workplace. When employees are psychologically healthy, they tend to be more motivated and engaged and their productivity in their work is optimal,” Kadri said. “Allowing employees to take a mental health day off when they need it is very important for both employee and company.”
[Also read “10+ Tips to Overcome Rust-Out and Burnout at Work.”]
Reach out to a trusted friend, a licensed therapist or counselor or urgent care if you’re having severe mental health symptoms.
When to see a health care provider
While some illnesses can be managed at home, others require professional medical attention. Listen to your body and seek medical care when necessary.
“No one should return to work if they continue to have weakness, body aches, difficulty breathing or gastrointestinal (digestive) symptoms,” Kadri said. “If you are experiencing these, you should see your health care provider or visit your local urgent care.”
Considerations for remote workers
Even if you work from home, don’t ignore these signs. “Remote workers should resist the temptation to work through illness to maintain optimal health and performance,” Kadri said.
Taking a sick day at home helps you recover faster and return to work in better shape.
How to call in sick to work
When you decide to take a sick day, here’s a simple approach to follow:
- Notify early: Tell your boss or team as soon as possible. Avoid waiting until the last minute. This gives your workplace time to adjust and cover your tasks.
- Follow company policy: Know your company’s sick leave policy and rights.
“Understanding your company’s short-term and long-term sick pay helps prevent financial hardships and protects your position in the company,” Kadri said. “This way, you can take time off when necessary without stress or worry.” - Use the proper method: Follow your company’s process for reporting an absence. This may involve calling a specific number, emailing your boss or HR department or using an online absence reporting system.
- Be honest but brief: You don’t need to share all the details. State clearly that you are feeling unwell and unable to work. A simple message like, “I’m not feeling well and need to take a sick day” is enough.
- Take care of yourself: Use your sick day to rest and recover, following any medical advice or treatment you need.
Conclusion
Calling in sick is a normal part of maintaining your health and ensuring you perform well when you return to work. By recognizing the signs and following these steps, you can handle the situation professionally and respectfully.
Feeling under the weather but not sure if you should stay home? Use our symptom checker to learn more about the possible causes of your symptoms and if you should seek medical care.
For additional questions or concerns, visit your nearest urgent care, your health care provider or a Banner Health specialist.
