Swimcap Headache

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2009-06-23 9:22 AM

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Charlotte, NC
Subject: Swimcap Headache
I currently use a TYR silicone swim cap.  However, a lot of nights/following days after a swim workout I will get a headache.  Usually it's mild, but last night I woke up at 4:30 with my head just throbbing.  I have noticed the onset right after a swim, so I don't think it's related to other factors.

Any suggestions?  Should I try a different type of cap or might it just be related to swimming or the chlorine?

I have a reasonably small head for a woman, and I don't really feel that my cap fits too tightly, but I am open to all advice.

Thanks!

2009-06-23 11:32 AM
in reply to: #2236532

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Subject: RE: Swimcap Headache
TurtleBranch - 2009-06-23 9:22 AM I currently use a TYR silicone swim cap. 


I can't stand anything tight on my head at all as that gives me a major headache within minutes. That includes swim caps, head bands, and occasionally goggles. I did get a lycra cap last week as the hair is getting too long and annoying, and the cap does not feel as bad as a silicone one. Of course, it's not water proof.

http://www.speedousa.com/product/index.jsp?productId=3106239&clickid=Footwear+%26+Accessories_Swim+Caps&utm_source=adwords&utm_medium=plm&utm_campaign=New+Site+Launch+7.31.08&utm_extra=dim1%2FAccessories%3A+Caps%2F%2Fdim2%2FBroad&utm_term=speedo+swim+cap&cp=3124326.3128423.3132045.3132063
2009-06-23 11:45 AM
in reply to: #2237045

Subject: RE: Swimcap Headache

margarita - 2009-06-23 12:32 PM
TurtleBranch - 2009-06-23 9:22 AM I currently use a TYR silicone swim cap. 


I can't stand anything tight on my head at all as that gives me a major headache within minutes. That includes swim caps, head bands, and occasionally goggles. I did get a lycra cap last week as the hair is getting too long and annoying, and the cap does not feel as bad as a silicone one. Of course, it's not water proof.

http://www.speedousa.com/product/index.jsp?productId=3106239&clickid=Footwear+%26+Accessories_Swim+Caps&utm_source=adwords&utm_medium=plm&utm_campaign=New+Site+Launch+7.31.08&utm_extra=dim1%2FAccessories%3A+Caps%2F%2Fdim2%2FBroad&utm_term=speedo+swim+cap&cp=3124326.3128423.3132045.3132063

No swim caps are waterproof - water still gets in them. They aren't meant to be waterproof, they're just meant to keep your hair out of the way to reduce drag.

To the OP - there should be no reason why a regular old swim cap would be "too tight", esp on a female of normal size. Perhaps your goggles were adjusted too tight or perhaps you just don't have the right goggles for your face - I have a pair that digs into my eye sockets in the wrong places and they give me a slight headache. My current goggles, I can wear forever and not notice them at all.

It may also be a reaction to the chlorine. Could be other things. But I highly doubt that it was from your swim cap.

2009-06-23 11:48 AM
in reply to: #2236532

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Subject: RE: Swimcap Headache
I sometimes get headaches after swims, usually late night /early morning onset.  I think it's hydration related, since ironically I drink a lot less during masters workout than I would during a bike ride.
2009-06-23 12:08 PM
in reply to: #2236532

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Subject: RE: Swimcap Headache
I still get swim headaches every once in a while, but here is what I've figured out:

1.  Loosen the goggles - digging into the eye sockets can cause headaches
2.  Flip turns - If I do open turns, I never get headaches.  Make sure to stretch your neck really well before getting in the pool if you do flip turns.
3.  Use a water bottle and take frequent water breaks
4.  I've heard taking a couple ibuprofen before a workout can help, but I can't verify it because I've never done it before.

Hope this helps.
2009-06-23 1:05 PM
in reply to: #2237201

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Charlotte, NC
Subject: RE: Swimcap Headache
Thanks everyone.  I have Speedo Vanquisher women's goggles and perhaps they are just too tight.  I'll try loosening them for a few workouts.  I do drink often during my swim workouts, but could stand to hydrate more beforehand.  My drinking habits while swimming are actually better than when I am running, so I didn't think that would be it.

I don't do flip turns in my swim workouts, but I do have a lot of neck tension.  I'll try stretching it!

2009-06-23 1:24 PM
in reply to: #2236532

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Subject: RE: Swimcap Headache
I used to get headaches after swimming too almost every single time. It turned out to be a sinus issue. I started using a Neti Pot to flush my sinuses and voila, no more swim headaches. I should also add, I had no idea that I even had sinus "problems" prior to this. Maybe it's something to look into?

ETA: I tried everything that everyone else suggested too - loosening goggles, drinking more, no more flip turns, etc. Nothing helped.

Edited by amilwee 2009-06-23 1:26 PM
2009-06-23 1:39 PM
in reply to: #2237110

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Subject: RE: Swimcap Headache
wurkit_gurl - 2009-06-23 11:45 AM

No swim caps are waterproof - water still gets in them. They aren't meant to be waterproof, they're just meant to keep your hair out of the way to reduce drag.



I guess I should have said "less protective of your hair"

2009-06-25 5:30 AM
in reply to: #2236532

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Subject: RE: Swimcap Headache

My wife uses a material type swim cap vs. the silicone cap - this helped with headaches. Also, check the goggles. Aqua sphere makes a great swimming mask that might work better than eye goggles.

best of luck with the headaches.
2009-06-25 8:04 AM
in reply to: #2236532


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Subject: RE: Swimcap Headache

I just started getting swim headaches last week! I'm taking Claridon D, but it doesn't seem to help. I do think the headaches in the water are caused by congestion, I've been blowing my nose all the time and I think my vessels are constricted and over worked.

Did your headaches eventually go away?

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