Why am I congested after a massage?

Author: Prof. Randy Koepp  |  Last update: Monday, October 6, 2025

Why do you get congested after a massage? Massage therapists often apply pressure to the face during a massage session, which can cause congestion in the maxillary and frontal sinuses. This is because the pressure applied to the soft tissues of the face can block or restrict airflow through these sinuses.

Why do I feel congested after a massage?

Relaxation Response: Massage promotes relaxation, which can lead to the dilation of blood vessels and increased blood flow. This may cause swelling in the nasal passages and a feeling of congestion.

Can you get cold like symptoms after a massage?

If in the past you have experienced cold-like symptoms, headaches, nausea as a result of receiving massage, always let your therapist know. Adjusting the pressure during your first massage might give your body more time and support to deal with the changes it will undergo.

Can a massage make your sinuses drain?

Sinus massage can help drain your sinuses. It creates space in the passageways connecting your sinuses when they become inflamed. This allows mucus to flow out through your nose.

Why do I feel spaced out after a massage?

The physiological changes like increased blood flow and reduced heart rate, combined with the psychological relief from stress, create an environment where the body feels more at ease but also more tired. Understanding these factors can help you better prepare for and manage post-massage fatigue.

Why do I get sore after a massage?

What are the symptoms of detoxing after a massage?

Hydrating and resting can help alleviate these symptoms. After a massage, mild detox symptoms can occur as the body eliminates toxins. Common symptoms include fatigue, muscle soreness, and headaches due to the release of lactic acid and other waste products.

Does massage release histamine?

A massage promotes the release of histamine. Histamine acts as a neurotransmitter that increases the permeability of blood vessels. Increasing the permeability of blood vessels results in vasodilation.

What is the pressure point to release sinuses?

SI18. This sinus pressure point rests just below where your cheekbones meet your nose on each side of it. They can be pressed on simultaneously to soothe swelling and stimulate drainage.

Does blowing your nose make congestion worse?

Blowing your nose reduces congestion. But you don't want to blow your nose forcefully into a tissue. If you blow too hard, it can push germ-carrying mucus back into your sinuses and into your middle ear. This can increase sinus pain and cause an ear infection.

Can you get a massage without laying on your stomach?

If unable to lie face down, your therapist may have you lie on your side. The therapist may use pillows or bolsters to take strain off your lower back and allow you to relax during the massage.

Why do I feel like I'm getting sick after a massage?

A deep tissue massage usually leaves the muscles feeling sore, as if clients have done intense exercise, and when there is muscle soreness, the immune system naturally activates T-Cells to try to repair those muscles. As such, this immune system response can make some clients feel as if they are ill.

What are the metabolic wastes after massage?

By releasing a variety of toxins — from metabolic wastes like lactic acid and urea to stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline — massage provides a plethora of health benefits that extend well beyond simple relaxation.

How often should you get massages?

1. What are the general massage frequency guidelines? It is generally recommended to get a massage once a month to maintain the benefits of relaxation and stress relief. However, some individuals may benefit from more frequent sessions, especially if they have specific health concerns or physical discomfort.

Is it normal to have cold symptoms after a massage?

Massage is unlikely to cause an actual cold or flu unless the Massage Therapist is contagious. However, deep tissue massage is known to cause Post Massage Soreness & Malaise (PMSM). This commonly presents with flu-like symptoms including: Pain.

What not to drink after a massage?

Drinking alcohol can actually dehydrate your body and make you feel worse after a massage. Alcohol also inhibits the body's natural ability to heal, so it's best to avoid it altogether. If you do decide to drink alcohol after a massage, be sure to drink plenty of water as well to stay hydrated.

What is a healing crisis after massage?

As the body detoxifies, it is not uncommon to experience flu-like symptoms including dizziness and light-headedness, an odd or metallic taste in the mouth, headache, joint and muscle pain, body aches, sore throat, general malaise, nausea, increased sweating, urination or defecation, chills, skin eruptions, itches or ...

Why is my nose clogged but nothing comes out?

Common causes of nasal congestion without discharge

Allergic reactions to pollen, dust, pet dander, or other allergens can lead to nasal congestion as your body's immune response inflames your nasal passages.

What are the symptoms of rebound congestion?

What is rhinitis medicamentosa (rebound congestion)? Rhinitis medicamentosa is a type of nasal congestion that occurs when you overuse nasal sprays. It causes irritation and inflammation in your nasal passages. In rhinitis medicamentosa, you have a stuffy or runny nose, but no other cold, flu or allergy symptoms.

How to unblock sinuses naturally?

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  1. Drink fluids. Water or juice will help dilute mucous secretions and promote drainage. ...
  2. Moisten your sinus cavities. Drape a towel over your head as you breathe in the vapor from a bowl of hot water. ...
  3. Apply warm compresses to your face. ...
  4. Rinse your nasal passages. ...
  5. Rest. ...
  6. Sleep with your head elevated.

What are the four main symptoms of sinusitis?

The main symptoms of sinusitis include:
  • pain, swelling and tenderness around your cheeks, eyes or forehead.
  • a blocked or runny nose.
  • a reduced sense of smell.
  • green or yellow mucus from your nose.
  • a high temperature.

Where to put Vicks for a stuffy nose?

Where do you put Vicks for a stuffy nose? You should only apply Vicks VapoRub to your throat or chest. Never put it in your nose, because this could cause irritation. This could also cause you to absorb more medication, which can lead to side effects.

What chemical is released after a massage?

One such chemical is oxytocin, often called the “love hormone.” Oxytocin promotes feelings of trust, relaxation, and bonding. It helps reduce stress and anxiety, creating a sense of calm and well-being. The release of oxytocin during a massage contributes to that blissful state of relaxation you experience.

What does a histamine release feel like?

What are the symptoms of too much histamine in the body? Symptoms include itching, hives, flushing, headaches, nasal congestion, rapid heart rate, and digestive issues like bloating and diarrhea.

Can a massage trigger inflammation?

Reasons why you feel sore after a massage

“It forces blood into your muscles and helps bring in nutrients. This process can temporarily increase inflammation in areas that the body feels need attention.”

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