Today is 'National Sickie Day' with more people ringing in sick for work on this day than any other day of the year.

The first Monday in February is traditionally the day which sees the highest numbers of UK employees absent from work due to sickness.

The Employment Law Experts (ELAS) predict that around 350,000 will call in sick, costing the UK economy almost £45 million in wages, lost hours and overtime.

For those of you who are actually ill, St John's Ambulance has some advice on how to deal with the most common ailments:

1. Headaches – Hold something cold against your head, while sitting or lying somewhere quiet. Apply for no more than 10 minutes though. You could also take the recommended dose of painkillers to get you through the pain.

2. Hangover - One of the main causes of hangover symptoms is dehydration. Therefore, make sure you drink plenty of fluids.

3. Vomiting and diarrhoea - Both are usually caused by irritation of the digestive system. They also cause the body to lose essential salts and fluids - risking dehydration. Once you've stopped vomiting, sip water or unsweetened fruit to stay hydrated. When you begin to feel hungry again, eat foods that are easily digested such as bread and pasta for the first 24 hours.

4. Food poisoning - If you think you might have food poisoning, these are the six key things to look for: feeling sick, vomiting, stomach cramps, diarrhoea, headache, or fever. The most important thing is to drink water, to remain hydrated

5. Flu – If you're suffering from this common illness, you are advised to rest, keep warm and drink plenty of fluids. Ibuprofen and paracetamol can also be taken to relieve symptoms.

Graham Ellis, a spokesperson from St John Ambulance, said: "The common illnesses suffered by those genuinely ill on National Sickie Day can be extremely uncomfortable and unpleasant.

"We encourage anyone who is unwell to follow our tips.

"For those practicing their fake sick voice and using farfetched excuses to pull a sickie, first aid advice isn’t needed here, though you may want to research your symptoms if you want to make it sound convincing!"

For more first aid advice, visit www.sja.org.uk.