Experiencing Cold Symptoms After a Massage?
It's not unusual to experience some mild cold or flu-like symptoms after getting a massage. Symptoms like a runny nose, coughing, or congestion are commonly reported following massage sessions. But what causes this? And should it be a cause for concern?
Here we'll explore the possible reasons you may temporarily develop these cold symptoms after a massage. We'll also provide tips on how to avoid it happening so you can continue to enjoy the benefits of massage without the annoying side effects.
Why Does Massage Cause Cold Symptoms?
There are a few theories on why massage may lead to temporary cold and flu symptoms:
Spreading Germs
If your massage therapist is sick and contagious, the close contact involved with massage could allow their germs to spread to you. Proper sanitization and hygiene practices by therapists reduce this risk, but cannot fully eliminate it.
Increased Circulation
The increased blood flow and circulation massage promotes may dislodge mucus and toxins from your lymph system and sinuses. Your body then tries to expel them through coughing, runny nose, etc. This is ultimately beneficial.
Improved Immune Response
Massage may enhance immune system function. Your body could respond to the mild muscle trauma of massage by ramping up immune activity. This heightened immune response leads to temporary cold-like symptoms.
Release of Histamine
The mechanical pressure of massage may cause release of histamine from cells. Histamine triggers inflammation and fluid leakage that can result in congestion, runny nose, and other allergy-like symptoms.
Stress on the Vagus Nerve
The vagus nerve runs down the neck and controls functions like mucus production and coughing. Massaging muscles near this nerve may stress it and trigger symptoms like phlegm and coughing.
Common Cold Symptoms After Massage
The most frequently reported symptoms after massage involve the respiratory system. These include:
- Runny nose
- Nasal congestion
- Sneezing
- Watery eyes
- Sore throat
- Coughing
- Producing phlegm
General flu-like achiness, fatigue, chills or headache may also occur. Symptoms tend to be mild and temporary, beginning within 6-12 hours after massage and resolving within 24-48 hours.
Risk Factors and Contributing Factors
Certain people may be more prone to developing cold symptoms after massage. Risk factors include:
- Allergies - Having respiratory allergies like hay fever
- Asthma - More sensitive airways make symptoms more likely
- Frequent sinus infections - Indicates easily irritated sinuses
- Anxiety - Stress and anxiety may amplify symptoms
- First massage - The first 1-2 massages tend to cause more symptoms while body adjusts
Factors during the massage that may make symptoms worse include:
- Deep pressure - Aggressive deep tissue work causes more inflammation
- Neck manipulation - Directly stresses the vagus nerve
- Lymphatic drainage - Strongly boosts immune response and mucus release
- Allergenic oils - Essential oils you may be sensitive to
Less Common Symptoms
While respiratory symptoms are most common, people may occasionally experience:
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Rash
- Itching eyes
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Achiness
- Fever
These are signs the body is reacting strongly to the massage. They tend to resolve within 24 hours but let your therapist know if any symptoms concern you.
Should I Be Worried?
For most people, cold symptoms after massage are mildly annoying but not a major cause for concern. They are simply a sign your body is responding strongly. However, speak to a doctor if you experience:
- High fever over 101 F
- Severe congestion or coughing making it hard to breathe
- Symptoms lasting over 5 days
- Wheezing, chest tightness, shortness of breath
- Eye pain, light sensitivity, discharge
- Joint pain or swelling
- Dizziness, confusion, fainting
These could indicate a more serious reaction, infection or complications. Seek prompt medical attention if symptoms are severe or long-lasting.
Can I Prevent Symptoms?
While some post-massage sniffles are normal for many, you may want to minimize symptoms. Tips to prevent cold symptoms after massage include:
- Ask therapist to avoid excess pressure if you are prone to reacting
- Request no strong neck manipulation which stresses the vagus nerve
- Avoid extensive lymphatic drainage techniques
- Tell therapist if certain essential oils irritate you
- Shower and wash linens after massage to remove lingering oils
- Stay well hydrated to help clear mucus
- Use a humidifier if airways feel dry and irritated
- Try a nasal spray to relieve congestion as needed
- Take an antihistamine before massage if allergies are a likely trigger
You can also try shortening the length or reducing frequency of sessions until your body adjusts. And be sure to communicate with your massage therapist so they can modify techniques to accommodate you.
Medical Treatments
If symptoms persist and are bothersome, you may need medical treatment. Options include:
- Antihistamines - Block histamine reactions that cause symptoms
- Decongestants - Relieve nasal and sinus congestion
- Cough suppressants - Control coughing
- Nasal sprays - Directly open blocked nasal passages
- Allergy shots - Immunotherapy to reduce sensitivity long-term
See your doctor to determine which options may help control your post-massage symptoms. Be sure to inform them the cause is massage-related.
The Bottom Line
Experiencing temporary cold or allergy-like symptoms after massage is fairly common and not serious for most people. Stay well hydrated, use symptom relieving medications, and communicate with your massage therapist to control discomfort.
While annoying, keep in mind that some symptoms indicate the massage is succeeding in boosting circulation and immune function. So don't be too quick to give up on the benefits of massage if you develop sniffles or a cough now and then.
Tips for Preventing Cold Symptoms After Massage
- Ask the therapist to avoid excessive pressure if you tend to react
- Avoid strong neck manipulation during the session
- Skip or minimize lymphatic drainage techniques
- Communicate about essential oils that may irritate you
- Shower after massage to remove oils
- Stay hydrated and use a humidifier
- Consider taking an antihistamine beforehand if allergies are a trigger
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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