I have been a competitive cross-country skier for many years, but I have a problem: My nose runs all the time when I work out -- year-round. It doesn't matter what the weather or time of year, it just runs and I am constantly blowing my nose while I work out. I feel that maybe this is limiting my ability to get extra oxygen from my nose while working out. Any suggestions?

That sounds like a reflex (similar to a knee jerk), and it can be very annoying. Many people experience a runny nose when exercising in the cold (it's called skiers' nose) and this can be effectively prevented with anti-cholinergic medications, available in oral and in nasal spray form, taken prior to the activity that normally elicits the runny nose. People with glaucoma or prostate problems should avoid systemic anti-cholinergics, however. I'd suggest that you see your doctor to see if an anti-cholinergic or another medication might be appropriate for you.

Thanks for the question,

Dr. White

-- Dr. Martha Vetter White, MD, is confounder and director of research at the Institute for Asthma and Allergy in the Washington, DC, area.

First published August 19, 2003
Last updated August 2, 2007
Copyright © 2003 Consumer Health Interactive