Since my introduction to triathlon and the pool in 2005, I have had major issues with getting 'stuffed up' while swimming. It's rather disgusting how much phloem and mucus I produce and it's really hard to swim through it. Not to mention, I am always coughing like an 80 year old smoker at the wall and people think I'm insane. At first I just thought I was allergic to chlorine and that I would just have to deal with it, but then realized it happens in open water as well so it couldn't be the chemicals. I have also been told that my seasonal allergies might be causing it as I swim outside year round, but it happens all year and even when I do swim inside, so that theory is out too.
After a great meeting with Lisa Brone of All Sports Medicine of Boulder, we decided that I should try using Afrin nasal spray before getting in the water.
Neal Henderson thinks I should the Afrin for the sinus congestion and Mucinex for the coughing. Did I mention I hate taking meds? It's a good thing because Tingle is convinced I'm going to become addicted to Afrin...haha 
1 comment:
hi Erin
hey I have been diagnosed w/ similar issues except it shows itself in my eustation tubes... but supposedly an allergic reaction to chlorine and or water/ inside outside. If you find anything you love let me know. I am not keen on meds, just purchased some homeopathic sinus and ear pills, and am going to try chinese medicine next. my friend susan suggested an immuniologist too as I was pretty dissatisfied with the ear/nose/ throat doctor's opinion. good luck.
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