My neck feels swollen.

[jacquidube]

Is it normal for your neck to feel swollen after a workout at the gym. When I pull weights that are quite heavy my neck feels like its bulging what with veins and the weight affecting this. I have just started out so do you think maybe the weight I am using is too heavy for me to start with or is this normal. Even when I am just doing sit-ups my neck feels like its bulging and then I feel I jave something in the way in my neck area.

Also is it possible too when using heavy weight to build muscle inside close to the heart then causing swelling close to the heart etc. I am worried about the consequences when using heavy weights. I am quite slim and weigh 54 kilos and 5ft 2in tall. Am I just worrying over nothing.

Thanks guys for any input.

[verbatimreturned]

I would say thats quite normal, I get it all of the time. I think it can be best described as "The Pump" its when blood rushes into your muscles when you are working out. Not a bad thing IMO

[Eric3237]

Yeah, verb is right. It's a change in blood pressure. If you're holding your breath this could accentuate it. I'm not saying you should pay inordinate amounts of attention to your breathing. I kinda think you should do what's natural...but if it becomes too uncomfortable then you can try more exhaling when lifting.

If your heart is healthy then there is no real danger from lifing heavy weights. Make sure you have a good warmup...don't just go right to the heavy stuff...ease into it. Make sure you are aware of proper form so that if the weights are too heavy for you to maintain form that you'll know to lighten up.

[Dr X]

What excercises are you doing that is making this happen?

You should see my neck after I work out.

[Eric3237]

I would venture to say it's things involving the core or trunk?