Bronchial and sinus infections

[sd]

About a month ago I hade a bronchial infection and was put on 5 days of antibiotics to treat it. After about 10 days I was feeling great and running at 100% again. I was leaving for a ski trip in Quebec and figured I should go the doctors and make sure everything is good before I leave. The doctor said I was good to go however the day I got into Quebec my lungs felt weak and it hurt to breath. I whent back to the hospitale and they took x rays of my lungs and face and it turns out I hade another bronchial infection as well as a sinus infection my lungs also hade some inflamation going on. I am now on a 14 day treatment of penecilline and a few puffers. I was just wondering if anyone bade some insights as to when I should start running again? Maybe some of the older guys have hade or have known someone with these health problems? If anyone has any advice atole it would be greatfully appreciated.

[marathondude]

I hope that the infection was bacterial as antibiotics have no effect on viral infections. That being said, antibiotics diminish the good bacteria in your gut and it takes about six weeks for them to rebuild. In the future, if you are feeling sick, start drinking plenty of green tea and water. if the infection is viral, this will help flush out your system and can help prevent it from becoming a full-blown bacterial infection. Good luck on your recovery! My rule of thumb during 37+ years of running over 100,000 miles is that unless I have a fever I still run - just fewer miles at a slower pace.

[sd]

Thanks.

[coldneck]

I had bronchitis four years ago. After a month I went on antibiotics and rested for a couple of weeks. It took another month to feel normal again. I would say it's better to rest and let it clear than to train through it. If I had not been in Australia for Commonwealth games I would of shut it down much earlier.

[sd]

Thanks Coldneck appreciate the insights.

[BeachBoy]

Try using a Neti Pot for allergies and sinus problems. You can buy it at Shoppers Drug Mart, kit is $21.00, includes 50 salt solution packages. Follow instructions. You can make up your own solution with 3 parts sea salt and 1 part baking soda. The salt solution packages contain just over 1/4 tsp. You can use with tap water. Use daily or every other day.
It works!
www.neilmed.com/can/index.php