Just because you caught the freshman plague doesn’t mean that you have to miss out on all the fun during the weekend. While we’ve all definitely rallied while fighting some unidentifiable sickness, there are good and bad ways to go about it.


Do: Drink a lot of water. Hydrate throughout the day, and drink warm things like tea with honey or broth–based soups.


Don't: Load up on drugs. Cough medicine, cold medication, antibiotics and pain relievers do not mix well with alcohol, and have some pretty threatening side effects (especially to your already messed–up liver). These include Tylenol, Advil, DayQuil, NyQuil and their generic counterparts. If you do have to take medication and plan to drink, make sure you follow the guidelines on the box.


Do: Relax before you go out. If you want to rally to your fullest sick potential, you're going to need all the energy you can get. Take a power nap and chill before you start throwing back drinks.


Don’t: Smoke. If your voice already sounds like you’ve been chain–smoking Newport 100s for 50 years, what do you think you’ll sound like after a hit from your friend's boyfriend’s poorly–rolled joint? Plus, just because they share their weed with you doesn’t mean you have to share your diseases with them.


Do: Take it easy. Nobody will even remember you skipping out on that tenth shot.


Don’t: Be a party pooper. Chances are your friends will know that you’re sick, but you don’t have to keep reminding everyone. Remember to have a good time (that’s why you came out, right?) and be good company. 


Do: Eat citrus fruits and spicy foods. Citrus fruits will help build your immune system and are full of Vitamin C. Spicy foods are great for decongesting and clearing sinuses.


Don’t: Spread your sickness. Nobody wants to catch a cold from partying. Handle pulls, keg stands, shared drinks and DFMOs should be avoided at all costs.