Living a Healthy Life -- Wellness and Physical Fitness
Classes:
Introduction > Take the Test > Nutrition and Meal Preparation > Exercise and Physical Fitness > Prevention and Regular Check-Ups > Special Considerations > Conclusion
Special Considerations > Disabilities > Illnesses and Medications
Illnesses and Medications
In addition to your age, gender, and overall physical abilities, there are a number of other things you want to consider when starting a new exercise or diet or changing your exercise or eating habits. If the status of any of the below changes, you'll want to be sure to consider how that will affect your current exercise or diet.
Chronic Illnesses
If you suffer from a chronic illness (such as asthma, diabetes, hypertension, multiple sclerosis, or Parkinson's, to name just a few), you should check with your doctor or healthcare provider to find out what exercises and dietary rules you should follow and avoid. While everyone benefits from exercise and a balanced diet, the type of exercise and diet may change depending upon your overall health.
Surgery
If you are recovering from surgery, be sure to check with your surgeon or doctor before going back to (or starting) an exercise routine. Some types of exercise may make your recovery slower or even do damage to the surgery you've just had done; or your doctor may want you to do certain types of exercise and eat certain foods to help you regain your strength after surgery.
Common Illnesses
If you are suffering from any sort of sickness, even the common cold or flu, check with your doctor before exercising or drastically changing your diet. While a drippy nose may not affect your workout, exercising with a fever or chest cold could make the illness worse (and even lead to pneumonia).
Medications, Vitamins, and Supplements
Medications, both over the counter and prescription, vitamins, and supplements all affect your health. They can have serious interactions with other medications or their affect can change if you drastically change your diet or exercise routine. A general rule of thumb is to let your doctor know about every type of medication, vitamin, or supplement you are taking and ask if they have any side-effects or interactions with other things that you should be aware of. Also, be sure to read any instructions or warning that comes with your medicine (including medicine, vitamins, or supplements you buy at the local drug or grocery store). If you have any questions about the instructions or warnings, you can always ask your local pharmacist or call your doctor or healthcare provider.
Next: Conclusion
