J.B. asks from Orem, UT on February 18, 2009
Sinus Headache After Going to gym...why?
90% of the time I get a sinus headache after going to the gym -- like today. I don't workout hard. I either jog or do minor weight training so I'm not completely exhausting myself at the gym. There are 3 gyms I usually rotate going to depending on the time of day. But I can usually feel my sinus walls swelling about an hour after I go to the gym. Today my sinuses didn't start to swell until 3-4 hours after the gym. I don't want to be a pill popper and take sinus sudafed EVERY day before the gym. I also don't want to become addicted to nasal spray. How can I prevent this? I'm not ready to do one of those nasal cleanses as it scares me, but I do drip a little water in my nostrils during a hot shower to see if that will release my "blocked sinuses". Does anyone know how to prevent this from happening?
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L.D. answers from Dallas on February 19, 2009
You know, I'm amazed at how much water I have to consume to stay fully hydrated every day, especially with the weather so dry like it's been recently. I know that after I chug a big glass of water (or two) I can instantly feel a difference in my nose. Maybe making an effort to drink more water would help? Good luck!
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J.S. answers from Provo on February 19, 2009
There may be perfumes or something in the air at each of the gyms that you are sensitive to. My husband is allergic to perfumes, so he has a hard time going to church (no matter the building) because of the chemicals floating in the air.
B.K. answers from Denver on February 19, 2009
How much water are you drinking? Make sure you are well hydrated before you go the gym. Just a thought.
K.C. answers from Denver on February 19, 2009
Hey J.! I have chronic sinusitis...it's heinous. If you take sudafeds or meds such as that it will make your problems WORSE. I recommend taking Bromelain (you can get at Whole Foods, Vitamin Cottage, etc.). It's a natural supplement from the Pineapple. It breaks down proteins in your body naturally and effectively. If you take on an empty stomach about 2 hours before the gym, I guarantee you'll feel much much better. You must take it on an empty stomach otherwise it will just aid in digestion.
The sinus rinses are great, but it doesn't help me with my congestion and pain. It helps with keeping bacteria out. My sinusitis is way too chronic. My sinuses are teeny tiny and the fluid doesn't even get in to the cavaties it should. I use it when I have colds more than I use it for my sinuses.
Bromelain has seriously has saved my sanity, and kept me from having severe sinus headaches every day of my life!
L.D. answers from Dallas on February 19, 2009
You know, I'm amazed at how much water I have to consume to stay fully hydrated every day, especially with the weather so dry like it's been recently. I know that after I chug a big glass of water (or two) I can instantly feel a difference in my nose. Maybe making an effort to drink more water would help? Good luck!
J.P. answers from Salt Lake City on February 19, 2009
Do you know a reflexologist? If you can't find one, rub your toes or the tips of your fingers. This is the part of your body that might be blocked. I know reflexology works but don't take my word for it try it for yourself.
C.M. answers from Pocatello on February 19, 2009
Lots of good helps posted on here. My son plays for the Cardinals and if he is not hydrated enough, he gets that bad headache. Stay hydrated before during after.
V.D. answers from Salt Lake City on February 19, 2009
I was avoiding sinus cleanses as well, but I have miserable the past few weeks and finally relented. I tried the one from Neil Med and feel suck a difference after 5 days!
D.K. answers from Denver on February 19, 2009
Nasal cleanses are nothing more then salty water typically and are very safe, effective. On the other post about tonsils out Kimberly even recommended it and does it for her son. I am going to start doing it with my son as it seems to really help her little boy.
I would say make sure you take a steamy shower after working out and help open up the passageways. I wouldn't take anything BEFORE working out as sinus meds can increase your heart rate, not sure you want that while you are doing that with a workout too.
I say do a nasal cleanse before your workout or use saline drops (not addictive and very safe) before you work out. Then take a hot steamy shower right after working out.
Good luck!
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