Sinus Headaches From Swimming

Swimming usually leaves you invigorated and refreshed, but sinus headaches that result from swimming make you feel as if you are still underwater after you finish your workout. Plugged sinus cavities lead to infections and increased pressure and headaches. Repeated sinus headaches mean you might need to change your swimming regimen, or the location where you swim.

Origins

Sinus headaches originate from pressure and pain in the sinuses caused by sinusitis. Sinusitis is a condition involving irritated and inflamed nasal passages. Inflamed and blocked sinus cavities behind your cheeks, eyes and jaw further lead to infection of the canals. Sinusitis and sinus headaches sometimes follow upper respiratory infections or cold viruses. You overcome the viral infection, but opportunistic bacteria takes advantage of your weakened immune system following colds or flu, and you might need medical treatment to get rid of the bacterial infection.

Factors

Cardio Exercises & Sinus Pressure

Learn More

Swimming and diving increases your risk of sinusitis in part because of the pressure changes you experience when you go underwater, says "The New York Times," in a health report on sinusitis. Your sinus canals block up and the pressure change in your sinuses creates pain. Swimming pool chemicals might cause you nasal tissues to redden and swell. When mucus thickens and plugs your sinuses, any viruses or bacteria in the pool water introduced into the canals grow and replicate, causing infection.

Misconceptions

What you think are sinus headaches sometimes actually are migraine headaches, according to the Mayo Clinic. Both types of headache share certain symptoms, such as pain around the eyes, and increased pain when you bend forward. Nausea, vomiting and sensitivity to light accompany migraine headaches, though, symptoms absent from sinus headaches. Ask your doctor if you have questions or concerns about your condition.

Treatment/Prevention

Altitude & Sinus Pain

Learn More

Mild sinus headaches benefit from home treatments. You need to reduce the swelling and inflammation of your nasal passages in order to relieve the pressure that leads to sinus headaches. Saline or salt-water sprays irrigate nasal passages and wash out any irritating pool chemicals. Over-the-counter pain relief medication can help relieve some swelling and pain. Avoid exerting yourself or going in the pool until you fully recover from the headache and the sinusitis that causes it. Wearing nose clips prevents water from getting into your sinuses, and avoiding diving deep in the water prevents the pressure changes that cause blocked sinuses.

Considerations

See your doctor if your headache does not get better, or if your sinusitis does not improve after rest and home remedies. The Mayo Clinic also suggests you see your doctor if you have symptoms that last over a week, if your headache is severe and does not improve with over-the-counter drugs or if you have a temperature over 100.5 degrees Fahrenheit.