Sick of it

This past week has definitely been one for the record books.  All kinds of craziness has left me with a decidedly unsettled feeling.  And to top off my mental malaise, I have a cold.

I managed to make it through fall and winter with zero illnesses, only to succumb to a cold right as the temperature outside hits 90 degrees.  I'm wandering around in shorts with pockets bulging with tissues.  Other parents must be thinking, "Oh, we're still doing that?  Where have you been, guy?  A cold is sooooo two months ago."

The only thing left to do now is minimize my viral handicap and attempt to drive on with a daily workout.  How can you decide if you should go running or workout when you are sick?  The recommended litmus test is the location of your symptoms.

Above the neck?  Sniffling, sneezing, coughing, aching, stuffy head, fever (low grade), want to rest?  Prognosis: good, go exercise.  Do the best you can at your normally scheduled or easier workout.  

Below the neck?  Gurgling chest, productive cough, wheezing, fever above 99 degrees, vomiting(!), diarrhea(!!)?
Prognosis: Yikes.  Go back to bed and call in sick.  Your body and co-workers will thank you for taking a couple days off.

Please note that I am not a doctor, but I went to college with a guy who is.