feeling weak after illness - do you push yourself?

TheArmadillo
TheArmadillo Posts: 299 Member
in Fitness and Exercise
Have had a kidney infection for 2 weeks. Lost 12lb in 10 days due to illness. It has left me feeling really weak. I am due back to work on Monday and having only finished training (new job but same team I was working in before) 2 days before I got ill, my priority at the moment is being able to work.

I have a 60minute cycle each way to work, uphill on the way there. I only started cycling last summer so am not the best cyclist yet and it is hard work. My only other option at the moment is a bus, but there is a 30-40 minute walk to the bus stop and it costs money so not a long term option.

My husband is at home full time so I don't have to do a lot at home and can go to bed once the kids do.

However, I did about 4 hours slow paced walking today. Something I normally do without thinking about. I fell asleep on the sofa afterwards and still feel exhausted to the point of sickness.

What do I do - push myself hard to get back fitness or will this risk making me ill again. Or do I take things easy but risk my fitness levels staying low?

Replies

  • DancingMoosie
    DancingMoosie Posts: 8,619 Member
    I would take it easy and then gradually work back up to the activity you were doing before, like within a week or two. Can your husband give you a ride? Can you carpool? Or, ride the bike to the bus stop and then take the bus. Usually a bus will have a way to carry a bike.
  • scorchy808
    scorchy808 Posts: 26
    Ask your doctor, a kidney infection is serious business. Sounds like you are getting a significant workout just getting to work as it is. You can get back into your fitness routine once you are fully recovered. Keep drinking lots of water and rest a lot. Good luck!!
  • TheArmadillo
    TheArmadillo Posts: 299 Member
    Thank you - I think cycling to the bus stop is a great idea as it will be quicker and I can still be doing a bit to build up.

    Unfortunately we don't have a car and no available car pool as a tiny office (3 people at the moment).

    I have this firm belief that fresh air and exercise will treat any illness but my husband thinks I'm crazy. Obviously I won't tell him I think he might be right in this instance, but I think he has a point.
  • TheArmadillo
    TheArmadillo Posts: 299 Member
    I would speak to the doctor but would have to take time off work to do so so don't really want to do that at the moment. I am feeling fine apart from the tiredness.

    Thank you <goes to get another drink>
  • SJ46
    SJ46 Posts: 407 Member
    Definitely listen to your body and take it easy if you need to. Leave early so you have time for breaks if you need it and you can go at a slower pace. Hope you feel better sooN!
  • TheArmadillo
    TheArmadillo Posts: 299 Member
    Thank you, leaving earlier is a good idea as I won't have to push myself as hard.

    I think the consensus is definitely take it easy, so will relax a bit and not push myself too hard.
  • vcancel
    vcancel Posts: 96 Member
    Please don't overdo or you could end up in the hospital. Take it one day at a time and do a little more each day but ONLY under the advisement of your doctor. Do what the doc says and no more...

    Hope you're feeling better soon!
  • NCchar130
    NCchar130 Posts: 955 Member
    I"ve been sick on and off since Christmas. Currently on week 4 of a sinus infection, the worst of my life, but i think it's almost over. If you are cleared by your doctor but feel weaker than normal, I would really just focus on eating well, getting extra sleep, and if you want to exercise, only go as hard as you are able. You don't want to overtrain or risk injuring yourself because you're trying to do too much too soon. It will all be there waiting for you when you get better. :flowerforyou:
  • TheArmadillo
    TheArmadillo Posts: 299 Member
    Thank you both.

    I hope you feel better soon NCchar.

    I think I'm going to have to hold back and take things easier.

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