by David Fletcher MD
Tis the season…for respiratory infections!
It’s the most wonderful time of the year to get a cold, bronchitis and the flu. This begs the question, “Should I exercise on through this plague or take time to recover so I can live to fight another day?”
Here are a few things for you to consider when making that decision.
Above or below the shoulders.
Respiratory infections that cause symptoms primarily above the shoulders – runny or stuffy nose, ear ache, or mild sore throat are often treated either by waiting them out or taking some form of over the counter symptomatic treatment. Nothing really makes them go away faster but rather only helps reduce the symptoms. Often with these “colds”, it is possible to continue some degree of physical activity as you feel able. Start with a short walk and move up in time and intensity as tolerated.
Respiratory infections, like influenza and bronchitis, that cause symptoms primarily below the shoulders or whole body symptoms – fever, shortness of breath, muscle pain, cough – should prevent you from exercising until they have subsided.
Can I do the work out?
Consider this as well. You should ask yourself what is that value and purpose of exercising through an illness? Can I perform the work intended? Am I just trying to burn calories? Am I inclined to run today because it’s listed right there in my training plan? In general, if you can’t do the work you need to do then don’t do it. It is better to take the time your body needs to recover. Rest now and save it for another day when you can work maximally.
Try not to take out everyone around you!
It’s hard to imagine but that person doing a burpee right next to you might not care as much about your training plan as you do, so coughing all over them and the equipment might earn you the stink eye at best. Please take into account when using your best judgment. Wash your hands frequently, cover your mouth, wipe down your equipment. Common courtesy should prevail here. And here’s a secret. No one can tell with certainty when they are no longer contagious, so that line, usually said in between coughs, isn’t terribly reassuring.
How long should I wait?
Truth is that there many different causes of respiratory infections so it’s difficult to offer a broad sweeping generalization. Some we can test for (influenza) and most we group into on big similar category. A majority of the seasonal viral infections that come and go on their own will last between 7-14 days. Some respond to specific prescription treatment and most come and go regardless of what you do. Again I would refer the idea that if you can not do the work as intended it is best to give yourself additional time for recovery. If you’re feeling better 24-48 hrs after your fever dissipates, you can see how it goes. Start by reducing the time and intensity of your effort and increase as you see fit.
Respiratory infections, Medications, and Exercising.
I would discourage most athletes to stop exercise if you are taking medications that require a prescription. Hopefully their use has been reserved for a degree of illness that is more significant and therefore commands the necessary degree of rest.
In addition, there are many medications that can have an adverse effect on your body when it is in a compromised state of illness. While ibuprofen will help with your aches, pains, and fever symptomatically, it may have a negative affect on your kidneys during exercise, especially if you are dehydrated by a lack of intake and an excess of mucus coming from, well, everywhere! Pseudoephedrine and many decongestants/antihistamines can aggravate the cardiac rhythm. Throw on top of that a hard set of mountain climbers and your stuffy nose might not seem such a big deal after all.
The bottom line is to give your recovery as much consideration as you do your workout. Consider the scope of your symptoms, whether you will benefit from the effort or not, and how many folks you may expose along the way.
David Fletcher MD is owner of Fletcher Sport and Family Health (FSFH). He is a primary care physician whose private practice is focused on medical care of athletes and general care of adults. His practice is located in Bloomington, IN.
David has been practicing primary care medicine since 1991. During that time he has worked in physical and rehabilitation medicine, work-related injuries, student health, and underserved rural health care. More recently he opened FSFH to provide detail oriented medical care and training supervision for athletes of all levels. His broad experience with adjunctive medical practitioners and treatment options makes his approach to wellness uniquely holistic.
David is currently accepting new clients on a limited basis. Please submit all inquiries to [email protected] or you can visit www.davidfletchermd.com
