I'm getting over a cold that settled in my chest and have finally been able to get out on the track again. Yea! Coughing is not really a good ab workout, even if it makes your abs sore. You tend to push down with the diaphragm and distend the gut: Not an attractive look.
With the fears swirling about H1N1 and the shortage of flu vaccine this year, many people who normally get the shot may be vulnerable, but there are ways to minimize the risk.
First of all, recognize the difference between a simple cold and the flu. While they can have similar symptoms, the flu is generally a more severe disease. A cold can give you a runny nose, sneezing, coughing and a sore throat. The flu can give you all that, and more. Flu can make you feel exhausted, achy and feverish, like the Energizer Bunny has finally run down.
Fortunately for me, it was a simple cold. I never felt really run down or feverish. I was just messy.
Sick people should stay out of the gym while they exhibit symptoms, even if they feel up to a workout. Not only can you not “work it out” of your system, you risk spreading the bug to others. If you must get exercise, take a brisk walk or run. As long as you are able to breathe, you will at least avoid infecting others. If, on the other hand, walking outdoors or running is too difficult because you can’t breathe properly, then pay attention to what your body is telling you and take it easy for a week or two.
If you don’t feel up to your normal workout, don’t push yourself. Your workout will still be there when you’ve recovered. Exhaustion is your body’s way of telling you that it is using a lot of energy to fight the infection. If you divert too much energy to your workout, you may have trouble recuperating as quickly as you would like.
The best way to fight the flu is not to get it in the first place. If you can, get a flu shot early in the season, especially if you are in a high-risk group.
It may seem pretty basic, but try to avoid sick people and wash your hands often. Hot soapy water for at least 15 seconds is generally enough to wash away germs. Most doctors are downplaying antibacterial agents nowadays because of the possibility of causing germs to become resistant.
Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated. Even if you don’t feel like eating, it’s important to keep your strength up. Chicken soup really is good for a cold. Not only is it nourishing, but the salty broth may be beneficial in hindering the proliferation of germs in your throat. Gargling with warm salt water is also helpful.
If you’re feeling particularly bad, call your doctor. Antibiotics may do more harm than good when you have a virus, but your doctor may be able to advise you of a suitable decongestant. Try not to overuse them, however, because that can lead to other complications. Follow your doctor’s advice.
If you’re sick, go ahead and take it easy. This is the time to baby yourself so you can get better, faster. Chances are someone else in your family will need you to take care of them next week!
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