Managing Illness with hypermobility & dysautonomia
It seems to be sicky season. Most of us deal with chronic health issues, but what are we supposed to do when we add acute illness to the mix? Here’s 3 ways that I survived the past week with a viral infection.
Rest: The most essential thing you can provide your body for recovery. I recommend sleeping the first 2-3 days if possible. For quality sleep, you may want to sleep with your head elevated and with a humidifier on in the room.
Gentle movement: We want to avoid getting back to exercise too soon, but that doesn’t mean we can’t move at all. Regular position changes in bed, muscle squeezes, and deep breathing exercises go a long way in circulating lymph to help your body recover.
Hydration and sunlight: Even if it’s just for a minute or two, trying to get your face in some sunlight & drinking what you can helps with recovery. Lots of little sips go a long way. You can also choose soups and foods in broth to help you hydrate when drinking is hard.
Being sick will take a toll on your entire body and it may feel like you’ve lost all stability when you get better. This does not mean you’ve lost all of your strength. Stability is a reflection of the nervous system working with your muscles. After being sick, it is important to start gentle and only ramp up intensity as tolerated. Before intensity increases, focus on getting adequate rest, food intake, and hydration.
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