How to Ask to Go Home From Work When Sick

We all have those days — you arrive at work feeling okay, but as the hours go on, your body tells you something’s not right. Maybe it’s a headache, a sore throat, or just a complete lack of energy. So, how do you go home from work without seeming unprofessional or unreliable?

This article will show you how to recognize when it’s time to leave, how to ask respectfully, and how to maintain a professional image even when you’re too sick to stay. We’ll also cover why pushing through work when sick can actually be harmful — to you and your team.

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Signs You Should Go Home From Work

Sometimes people try to work when sick out of guilt or pressure. But ignoring your body can slow recovery and risk spreading illness to others.

Here are signs you should ask to leave:

• You have a fever or chills

• You feel dizzy or weak

• You’re coughing or sneezing frequently

• You can’t focus or think clearly

• You’re contagious (like with the flu or COVID-19)

If any of these apply, it’s okay — and wise — to go home from work.

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How to Ask to Go Home From Work Politely

Asking to leave work because you’re sick can feel awkward, especially in a professional setting. Here’s how to do it respectfully:

✅ Be honest and brief
✅ Let your manager know as soon as possible
✅ Offer to hand over tasks if needed
✅ Thank them for understanding

Sample Phrases to Use

In-person or over the phone:

“Hi [Manager’s Name], I’ve started feeling quite unwell, and I think it’s best if I go home and rest. I’ll make sure anything urgent is handed over before I leave.”

“I’m really not feeling well. Would it be okay if I go home early today? I want to rest and avoid getting worse.”

By message or email:

Subject: Not Feeling Well – Request to Leave Early
Hi [Manager’s Name],
I wanted to let you know I’ve started feeling unwell and would like to go home to rest and recover. Please let me know if there’s anything I should wrap up before I leave.
Thanks for understanding,
[Your Name]

What Not to Do

To stay professional, avoid:

❌ Disappearing without notice
❌ Sending overly casual or unclear messages
❌ Acting defensive or apologizing excessively
❌ Waiting too long to speak up — early notice helps your team adjust

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Why You Shouldn’t Force Yourself to Work When Sick

Trying to work when sick can actually do more harm than good — for both your productivity and your health.

Quick stats:

• 68% of employees have gone to work sick at least once in the past year (source: Kronos)

• Employees who rest early recover 30–40% faster on average

• Presenteeism (working while sick) costs businesses more in lost productivity than absenteeism

Your manager likely prefers you to rest and return at full strength rather than struggle through the day at half-speed.

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How to Prepare in Advance

If you feel symptoms coming on, here’s how to get ready in case you need to go home from work later:

• Let a team member know where key files or info are

• Keep your calendar updated

• Communicate clearly about meetings or deliverables

• Have a short message ready if you need to leave suddenly

This helps reduce stress — for you and your colleagues.

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Final Thoughts on How to Ask to Go Home From Work

If you feel unwell during your shift, it’s okay to ask to go home from work. Your health matters — and taking care of yourself shows responsibility, not weakness.

The key is to be polite, clear, and professional. Don’t wait until you’re too sick to function. Whether you’re in the office, on-site, or remote, your well-being should always come first.

Key Takeaways

✅ Speak up early — don’t push through if you’re unwell
✅ Use polite, professional language when asking to leave
✅ Prepare to hand off work if needed
✅ Avoid over-explaining or apologizing too much
✅ Remember: Taking care of yourself helps the team too