Dec 31 2009
Treating Infectious Mononucleosis – When Is It Safe To Exercise?
When treating infectious mononucleosis it is essential to consider safe exercise in your recovery program.
In the initial phase of the illness it is advisable to avoid exercise altogether. Typically in the first couple of weeks of infection, symptoms like fever, fatigue, swollen glands and a sore throat make exercise uncomfortable. These symptoms are best treated with lots of rest and quality sleep. If you continue to exercise in this stage you may worsen your symptoms or prolong your recovery.
In weeks 2 and 3 of the infection, about 50% of mono patients will suffer from an enlarged spleen. When treating infectious mononucleosis at this stage it vital to avoid exercise as it can rupture the spleen with dramatic complications. The liver can also be enlarged causing pressure and discomfort in the abdominal area. If you are an athlete, weight lifter or play contact sport it is a good idea to consult with your doctor before returning to your sport so they can check your spleen is fine.
When you get the go ahead to resume exercise from your doctor it is recommended that you start a graded exercise program starting with some gentle stretching or walking. Even 10-15 minutes a day is a good start. As you get stronger you can gradually increase the intensity and duration of your workouts till you are up to 3 – 6 sessions of at least half an hour every week.
When treating infectious mononucleosis, if you find exercise worsens your mono symptoms or causes muscle cramps, extreme exhaustion, swollen glands or headaches then your body may still be fighting the virus and it is best to slow down.
To help your body recover from exercise when treating infectious mononucleosis, it is worthwhile adding some nutrients like magnesium and the B complex. The use of vitamin C, zinc and the omega 3 fats can help quell inflammation like muscle soreness and pain. The herb ginseng can be helpful to fortify your adrenal glands and increase your exercise tolerance.
Keeping yourself well hydrated before, during and after exercise is important whether or not you are treating infectious mononucleosis. Aim for 2-3 litres a day. If you overdo your exercise and end up with sore muscles or fatigue then you can aid your recovery by having an Epsom salt bath (2 cups to a hot bath) before bed. Epsom salts are naturally high in magnesium which acts as a muscle relaxant on aching muscles.
For more information on treating infectious mononucleosis and when to exercise please refer to the e-book “Nature’s Amazing Mononucleosis Cures” by qualified naturopath Elizabeth Noble.
No responses yet
