In my career as a doctor, I have met countless patients who have suffered unnecessarily by neglecting their flu recovery period. The flu, which seems to be an "old friend" that you meet every year, actually hides risks that cannot be ignored. Many people experience symptoms such as high fever, cough, and malaise, and finally wait until their body temperature is normal, and then rush to say goodbye to this unpleasant experience, but ignore the importance of the recovery period. I would like to share a diagnosis and treatment story that impressed me to make everyone understand why management in the later stages of influenza is equally important.
I remember a young patient who loved long-distance running decided to continue his high-intensity training after recovering from the flu because he was unwilling to give up the upcoming marathon. He believes that as long as the fever subsides, his physical strength and state will naturally catch up quickly. However, just two days later, he came to my office again with severe leg pain and difficulty breathing. After examination, we found that his condition was not a simple muscle pain, but a severe stress response in his body due to the premature resumption of high-intensity exercise, fortunately, after timely treatment and rest, he finally recovered his health. But this experience undoubtedly brought great shock to him and his family.
Don't rush back to high-intensity exercise
As a physician with many years of clinical experience, I have witnessed too many adverse consequences caused by a premature return to high-intensity exercise. The flu, a seemingly ordinary but hidden virus, still leaves many traces in the body that need to be recovered after you think you have "defeated" it. Especially after the fever has subsided, many patients mistakenly believe that they have fully recovered and rush back to the gym or court, unaware that this can be an invisible killer of health.
A temporary decrease in the body's ability to endure
First of all, we need to understand that even if the flu symptoms disappear, there is still a fierce recovery battle going on inside the body. During this period, your physical strength and heart capacity do not fully return to their pre-illness state. The heart takes on an extra load during the flu and needs time to slowly return to its normal working rhythm. Premature, high-intensity exercise can lead to an overload of the heart and even cause serious cardiovascular events.
Exercise guidance during the recovery period
For patients who are in a hurry to return to exercise, I always recommend starting with light activity. For example, you can start with a walk or gentle yoga instead of immediately returning to high-intensity cardio or strength training. Monitor your body's reactions, and if you feel unusually tired or feel unwell after exercising, stop immediately and consult your doctor. Over time, the intensity and duration of exercise can be gradually increased depending on the individual's physical strength.
Watch for changes in symptoms and don't ignore leg pain
After the high fever of the flu has subsided, many people may feel an inexplicable relief that the worst is over. However, as I see in my daily clinics, changes in symptoms during recovery are just as important, especially leg pain, a symptom that may seem ordinary but can hide a serious problem.
Leg pain is not uncommon in medicine, especially during recovery from the flu. Many times, this pain is simply due to prolonged bed rest, resulting in muscle stiffness or poor blood circulation. However, in some cases, especially if the pain persists and is accompanied by redness, swelling, heat to the touch, or difficulty walking, this can be a sign of blood clots and requires immediate medical attention.
To avoid this, I advise patients during flu recovery, especially those who have experienced severe flu symptoms, to keep an eye on their leg pain. If the pain has any of the following characteristics, seek medical help as soon as possible:
The pain is concentrated in one leg, especially on the back of the calf.
Redness, heat, or swelling in the legs.
The pain worsens when you walk or touch the painful area.
At home, you can make a preliminary judgment about the nature of the pain in a simple way. For example, if the pain is relieved by gently moving or massaging the painful area, it may be due to muscle tension or immobility for long periods of time. At the same time, keeping the legs properly elevated can promote blood circulation and help relieve pain caused by poor blood circulation.
Why is it important to eat and hydrate?
First of all, the flu is a physically demanding illness that not only drains our immune system, but can also affect our appetite and digestive system. In this case, choosing the right foods can help us replenish the necessary nutrients and support the body's recovery process.
Secondly, adequate water intake is essential to maintain a stable internal environment, promote metabolism, and help the body eliminate virus residues. Dehydration can lead to a decline in various body functions and delay recovery.
Dietary recommendations during recovery:
Easily digestible foods: Choosing foods that are easy to digest can reduce the burden on your digestive system, such as rice porridge, noodles, mashed potatoes, etc. Not only do these foods provide energy, but they also reduce the risk of indigestion.
Vitamin-rich foods: Vitamin C and vitamin E can boost the function of the immune system. Fruits and vegetables such as oranges, strawberries, spinach and nuts are all good sources of vitamins.
High-protein foods: Protein is an essential element for repairing body tissues. Chicken, fish, tofu, and low-fat dairy products are all good sources of protein.
The Importance of Hydration and Recommendations:
Stay hydrated: Drink at least eight glasses of water a day to keep your body hydrated. Avoid sugary drinks and caffeine as they may cause dehydration.
Warm water and herbal teas: Warm water can help relieve sore throats, while decaf herbal teas such as chrysanthemum tea, ginger tea can provide additional soothing effects.