While sinus infections are common, that doesn’t mean they are something to take lightly.
When it comes to working out when you’re feeling under the weather, it’s always better to be safe than sorry.
Know What You’re Dealing With
When you get a sinus infection, what that really means is that you have inflammation and swelling of your sinuses.
The cause can be many things – a cold, allergies, nasal polyps, or even non-allergic rhinitis (which is a fancy name for chronic sneezing or congestion with no apparent cause).
Symptoms of a sinus infection include thick nasal discharge, pressure and pain around the eyes and face, headache, nasal obstruction, congestion, post nasal drip, cold symptoms, and fever or cough.
Think Above the Neck
If your symptoms are above the neck (runny nose, sore throat or congestion), your body should be able to handle your standard exercise routine – but if your symptoms go below the neck (frequent cough, upset stomach, fever, fatigue or any chest issues), make sure to avoid your regular routine. If you are determined to try to fit some active time in, make sure to listen to your body, drink double the amount of fluids you normally would, and rest as soon as you need to.
Keep It Mild
Lighter exercise, like yoga and Pilates, are actually great natural alternatives to medicine when dealing with sinus issues. The focus on breathing relaxes the body, improving circulation and helping us heal.
Remember that exercise releases adrenaline, which contracts blood vessels – meaning the swelling in your sinuses may also be reduced.
Avoid Weightlifting
While some exercise can be fine when dealing with a sinus infection, the main thing to keep in mind is that it will clog your nasal passages – which can lead to dizziness, weakened coordination and muscle control, and a loss of balance.
There is nothing scarier than attempting to lift your normal weight only to realize you do not have the strength you currently possess. No one wants the heavy bar barrelling down on their chest due to muscle fatigue – so it’s best to avoid anything that could put you in danger.
Avoid Running
Since sinus infections can create pressure in the chest and make breathing difficult, the worst thing to do is to go for a run. When the heart has to work faster under this kind of stress, it is a recipe for a heart attack or stroke.
Get the Help You Need
At Houston Sinus & Allergy, we assess patients for the severity of their condition and determine a treatment. Book an assessment with our experienced ENT, Dr. Nguyen, and start feeling better.
Not only can they help resolve the current one, they can diagnose any conditions your child may have that will cause more in the future.