When you’re feeling congested, you may not feel like exercising, and if you do, you might wonder if you should. Congestion often accompanies colds, allergies or sinus infections and can leave you feeling tired or uncomfortable. It’s helpful to know when to continue working out and when to rest.
When Is It Safe to Exercise?
In general, mild symptoms such as a runny nose or slight congestion don’t necessarily mean you have to stop exercising. In fact, light to moderate exercise may help improve circulation and ease nasal congestion. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- If your symptoms are above the neck, such as sneezing, nasal congestion or a mild sore throat, you can still work out. Opt for low-intensity movement like a walk or yoga.
- Stay hydrated to help thin out mucus and prevent dehydration, especially during exercise.
- Listen to your body and avoid high-intensity workouts, which could tire you further, making congestion harder to fight off.
When to Skip the Workout
There are times when it’s better to take a break from your exercise routine to allow your body and your congestion to recover. It’s important to avoid physical activity if:
- You have a fever or body aches, which can indicate a more serious lingering illness.
- Your congestion is severe, or you’re experiencing chest tightness or trouble breathing.
- You feel fatigued or dizzy, as these are signs your body needs rest.
- You have symptoms below the neck, such as an upset stomach or a rattling cough.
Don’t exercise around others when you have symptoms of contagious illnesses.
In these cases, it’s best to allow yourself time to recover fully before resuming your exercise routine.
Helpful Tips for Exercising While Congested
Ultimately, whether to exercise while congested depends on how you’re feeling. If your symptoms are mild, light exercise may help, but it’s necessary to prioritize rest and recovery when needed.
To learn more about factors related to your ENT health, schedule a consultation today with Charleston ENT & Allergy.