Getting plenty of rest when you have a fever is age old prescription that continues to hold true. Fever occurs when your body temperature is higher than what's normal for you. Exercise can also increase body temperature. Exercise is not recommended when you have a fever, according to MayoClinic.com. However, it is unrealistic and usually unwarranted to confine a child with a fever to complete bed rest.
Definition
Fever is typically a sign that an abnormal process is taking place in your body, including a viral or bacterial infection. according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Body temperature can also rise in response to exercise or hot weather. Defining a higher than normal body temperature varies slightly among people. In general, fever is present when your body temperature, measured orally, is at or above 99.5 F. However, about 1 percent of healthy people have a temperature as high as 99.9 F during the afternoon.
Expert Insight
Bed rest won't reduce fever and is no longer advised to aid in the recovery of childhood illnesses, explains Dr. B.D. Schmitt, author of "Your Child's Health." Because most children are naturally less active when they don't feel well it's fine to allow them to determine their own level of physical activity, adds Schmitt. Insisting that your child stay in bed with a fever is probably unrealistic. Once left unattended, she might decide to use the bed as a trampoline. A child is typically advised to stay home from school until his temperature returns to normal even if he seems to have plenty of energy.
Considerations
Fever might dissuade you from exercising while encouraging you to take it easy as your body works to fight off the infection, explains Dr. Robert H. Shmerling of Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. A rise in body temperature that normally occurs during physical activity doesn't promote recovery and can be potentially harmful in people with existing heart disease or lung condition as elevated body temperature force the heart and lungs to work harder.
Outlook
Taking a respite from exercise when you have a fever shouldn't negatively affect your performance once you resume your regular activity level. If you decide to take a walk or go for a swim keep, your workout brief and don't overexert yourself, according to MayoClinic.com. Consult your doctor if you're unsure whether it's OK to start or resume exercising.
References
- MayoClinic.com; Is it OK to Exercise if I Have a Fever?; Edward R. Laskowski, M.D.; June 2011
- Children Physician Network; Activity During Illness: Decreased; B.D. Schmitt, MD; June 2010
- University of Maryland Medical Center; What is Fever?; January 2008
- Kids Health: Fever and Taking Your Childs Temperature
- Inteilhealth; The Best Way to Deal With a Fever; Robert H. Shmerling, M.D.; January 2011
