REHAB SERVICES Q: : Is it safe to exercise if I am ill with COVID-19? Jeff Large, PT A:If your symptoms are mild and above the neck, like a runny nose, nasal congestion, sneezing, or minor sore throat, you are OK to exercise. However, you may want to reduce the intensity and length of your workout. If you have symptoms below the neck, such as chest congestion, hacking cough or upset stomach, or if you have more severe symptoms including a fever, body aches or fatigue, it is best to rest until your symptoms subside. Breathing exercises can be helpful. Deep breaths and forced coughs can help clear mucus but are unlikely to help a dry cough. Deep breaths help expand parts of your lungs that are not used as much, which can be a risk of infection. Deep breaths help increase the amount of oxygen getting into the body. To exercise your lungs, take a slow, big, deep breath in through your nose (to warm and moisten the air), allowing your belly to rise as you fully fill your lungs. Hold your breath for a few seconds and exhale fully. Repeat a few times, and then force yourself to cough, to bring up any secretions. Sanford Bemidji Rehab Services SANFORD "| 1300 Anne Street NW TM Bemidji, MN 56601 (218) 333-5898 www.bemidji.sanfordhealth.org Bemidji REHAB SERVICES Q: : Is it safe to exercise if I am ill with COVID-19? Jeff Large, PT A:If your symptoms are mild and above the neck, like a runny nose, nasal congestion, sneezing, or minor sore throat, you are OK to exercise. However, you may want to reduce the intensity and length of your workout. If you have symptoms below the neck, such as chest congestion, hacking cough or upset stomach, or if you have more severe symptoms including a fever, body aches or fatigue, it is best to rest until your symptoms subside. Breathing exercises can be helpful. Deep breaths and forced coughs can help clear mucus but are unlikely to help a dry cough. Deep breaths help expand parts of your lungs that are not used as much, which can be a risk of infection. Deep breaths help increase the amount of oxygen getting into the body. To exercise your lungs, take a slow, big, deep breath in through your nose (to warm and moisten the air), allowing your belly to rise as you fully fill your lungs. Hold your breath for a few seconds and exhale fully. Repeat a few times, and then force yourself to cough, to bring up any secretions. Sanford Bemidji Rehab Services SANFORD "| 1300 Anne Street NW TM Bemidji, MN 56601 (218) 333-5898 www.bemidji.sanfordhealth.org Bemidji