Road Cycling - I hate allergies!!!!!

Second perfect sunday in a row. second sinus headache from hell (on a sunday) in a row. I've never had fall allergies before, but they're kicking my butt. Sudafed and 3 advil - nada. i just took 2 excedrin, we'll see how that works. there's so many people riding their bikes today. and i'm stuck on my couch with the mother of all sinus headaches. sorry, had to vent.

Go get some Claritin over the counter, that will stop the flow before it turns into a sinus infection. Works for about half of all people.

If not, go see an allergist.

Second the Claritin, Allegra, etc., they work pretty good w/virtually no side effects. Also if your nose won't drain due to inflamation of the nasal passages, nasal steroids work great. I use NaselCort (sp?), and it really opens things and allows them to drain. The good thing is I can use it just when my allergies are bad or when I get a head cold. There are little side effects/long term problems w/ it despite its a steriod. I also frequently irrigate my sinuses. My doctor recommended it and it works pretty well. It helps to washout the congestion, but also removes removes allergen, pollen, dust, etc. that accumulates especially during activities like riding. I use warm water w/ salt and baking soda and pour it in my nose while my head is tilted to the side. Despite how it sounds it isn't painfull, the salt/baking soda keeps the sinus membranes from being irritated and helps to keep them from drying out. Just search the web for more info.

Dave

I would stay away from sudafed as it makes me drowsy.

I hear you wintermute....I'm also on Long Island and although allergies usually don't bother me for more than 2-3 days in spring, the last few days have been horrible. Still riding though, and paying the price....
I think the weather has brought up a lot of unfamiliar stuff from the south with all the winds etc. Hang in there.

Go to a Dr. and get a perscription of Beconase AQ. It is a "TOPICAL" steroid that I've been using for about 10 years and I will swear by it. Extremly small dosage so it's not like the steriods wee are all so afraid of.