Maybe a question best left unasked, but here g... - Couch to 5K

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Maybe a question best left unasked, but here goes anyway...

fogs88 profile image
13 Replies

As I say, perhaps this sort of thing shouldn't be discussed but it's been bugging me since I started the programme three weeks ago. When I run, I have a bit of an issue with my nose. It just runs and runs like a tap and there doesn't seem to be any stopping it. And it's not like I can just pause and crack out a hanky on the roadside mid-stride from my un-pocketed shorts!

Has anyone else had this issue? And what did you do to deal with it?! It's not such an issue at the moment with the cold weather, but I am concerned about the solution when short sleeves come into play.

I'm sorry for being so foul; hopefully I haven't offended anyone...

(I am also conscious that this is my first post and the subject matter leaves a lot to be desired!)

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fogs88 profile image
fogs88
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13 Replies
AliB1 profile image
AliB1Graduate

don't think this would offend anyone! i don't have this particular issue but at the mo wouldn't be a problem as have tissues in my sweatshirt pocket...not sure where I'll put them in summer!!!

CaroleC profile image
CaroleCGraduate

Ok, this is a question I've not seen asked anywhere before, and no, of course it's not offensive, not even slightly; you've got something that's bothering you, you need to know if there's anything to do about it and you ask the question!

Do you normally suffer from a runny nose at any other time? Are you breathing in and out through your nose or through your mouth? Are you struggling with the program breathing wise anyway, or is it just the nose thing that's an issue?

Sorry for all the questions, just trying to clarify. As for practical issues, try tucking a tissue or two into the waistband of your shorts? Or get a lightweight bumbag that you can access while running. I get a bit of a sniffle sometimes while running, if the air is particularly cold, and I can manage to blow my nose at the same time. It's not pretty I will admit lol. I carry tissues tucked into the back of my capris or knickers, or if I've got my lightweight jacket on, in the pocket.

I've just read this on another running forum; It's called "exercise-induced rhinitis" and lots of people suffer from it, especially in cold weather. If you're not actually suffering from allergies, or a cold, and it's worse in cold weather, I think you're going to have to bite the bullet and make practical arrangements for carrying the old wiper uppers.

Sorry!

Me too Fogs - at the moment I run in a top that has pockets and make sure that I have a pack of tissues. I have noticed that as I'm nearing the end of the programme, it's a lot better than it was. I don't know whether it's because I've changed my breathing pattern or just that it's got warmer.

I run with a wristband that holds my phone and door key, it's not a very snug fit and I think I could tuck a tissue under it.

Greg_M profile image
Greg_MGraduate

Me too!

The secret shame is aired!

fogs88 profile image
fogs88

Thanks for all your advice!

In response to Carole's post I honestly never have a blocked nose at any time other then about 5 mins into the podcasts and don't have hayfever or any other allergies! Before I go out I'm clear as a bell but it doesn't last that way for long! I'm not overly sure how I'm breathing to be honest, I think through the mouth as my nose gets a bit preoccupied with other business. But it's not as if I'm gasping for air or am breathless, all other aspects of the programme seem to be fine.

Oh, and this is the most peculiar part - it's basically water that is coming down, definitely not what you'd imagine when you say runny nose. When I said it runs like a tap, it really is quite literal.

As you've all said, I think I'm going to have to experiment with shoving tissues in waistbands and see how it goes.

To be honest, I'm simply quite glad that it happens to other people too; I was worried I was allergic to running or just a general weirdo!

shelleymcb profile image
shelleymcbGraduate

hehe allergic to running :)

PatButcher profile image
PatButcherGraduate

This did make me LOL!!!! I also have the snotty nose problem...I just cuff it or use my gloves!!! There ya go, I said it, there's no point beating around the bush, just swipe it with your hand!!! OR gt some shorts with a little pocket inside for a tissue :)

ClearlyAM profile image
ClearlyAMGraduate

I chuckled as I read this. My nose always runs when I do... I think it just wants to join in. Practically I wear a cycling top (cos I am a cyclist not a runner originally) and it has pockets in the back so I just shove a tissue in there - it usually does stop a little further into my run once i get my breathing sorted. I don't think anyone is worried about you wiping your nose on your top! I am sure everyone's done it - thinking practically - perhaps in the summer you could wear a wrist band specifically for this reason.

Good luck! Post some more!

Deryn61 profile image
Deryn61Graduate

It is a well known factor for many! Dont be ashamed, carry tissues or do what I do and use your sleeve lol! I also sometimes have to spit when I am running outdoors, and I would NEVER spit otherwise!!!!

CaroleC profile image
CaroleCGraduate in reply toDeryn61

Oooh, I spit too sometimes when I'm working very hard on hills!! Glad it's not just me!

:)

Allybally profile image
AllyballyGraduate

I've only started getting this on the longer runs, but I feel your pain! And though its most unladylike to spit, I had to resort to that as well. My other half was in hysterics, said it was pathetic spitting lol. I've got pockets in my jacket, will just have to remember to pack the hankies!

bonnie68 profile image
bonnie68Graduate

Hi, I have had this over the winter too!! and, heres my guilty secret, I use a towelling wrist band , there you go :)

QuickQuick profile image
QuickQuick

I have this as well. I tuck three tissues into my sleeves as I don't have any running gear with pockets in either. Basically, I'm like a 5 year old with tissues tucked into my sleeves! :-)

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