running with ulcerative colitis
Thu, October 09, 2008 12:00 AM
I am getting extremely frustrated as this disease seems to be slowly taking over more and more of my life. First, it was spending an incredible amount of my time in the bathroom, then it was limiting what I eat, and when, now it seems to have invaded all areas of my life. I am an execise addict, and last year ran the NYC marathon ( In the condition I am in now I can't believe it was only last year that I was healthy enough to do this) but now even going for a short run is an adventure. I never know if I will get the "urgency" to have to go to the bathroom, and this has led to some very embarrasing situations. I am getting very frustrated, and depressed as there doesn't seem to be any time where I can just run and not think about my stomach. I feel that this too will eventually be taken away from me. While this disease started as a major nuisance I feel it is now starting to take over my life. I won't eat much at work, for fear of having to use the bathroom, and somebody will be using it, and I won't make it on time. I never was a social butterfly, but this has given me even more motivation to stay home. Does anyone out there have any advice regarding the running? It used to be that I could go in the morning before eating anything, but now this isn't even a guarantee. I feel I am about to lose an activity that I not only enjoy, but need to keep sane. Help!
yitzycJoined Oct 9, 2008
Fri, November 14, 2008 9:58 PM
Reply posted for yitzyc.
While not a marathoner, I can sympathize.
It was only due to prednisone that I was able to run at all.
I ran the Peachtree Road Race, a 10k, in 2006 with out issues. That September, on the US 10K Classic, I had to hit three places during the race. It is miserable running with UC hanging over you.
I had to skip the Peachtree in 2007, which broke my heart. In running it in 2008, I had to hit a Starbucks once. On the US 10 K, I hit an IHOP.
But my training sucked. No more long run though a bunch of neighborhoods. Now with a jpouch, I am still hesitant to go on those long runs.
jeffdcJoined Aug 25, 2008
Sun, October 19, 2008 2:16 PM
Reply posted for yitzyc.
hi i can understand how you feel from running a marathon one year and not being able to the next... im not a runner im not much of anything (but a mother) because ive had crohns for thirty long years ...it does take over your life in so many ways ...if you let it...how about trying just running on a tread mill at home for a little bit each day then seeing how your body handles it im sure its not like being outside but you shouldnt give up the thing that makes you feel a little bit better. I dont leave my house because i feel detached from people ...no one gets it unless they have uc or crohns... I guess what im saying is try not to give up on the one thing that makes you happy or this disease will slowly take everything...you are an insperation for just getting out there and running a marathon...dont give up on running its part of who you are ...good luck...
beachlvrJoined Sep 30, 2008
Sat, October 18, 2008 12:00 AM
Reply posted for rosie.
Hi
I used to run in the mornings and I would have just a sip or two of something; but still sometimes I would have problems like you. I know we are not supposed to mention medication, but finding Questran was like finding a miracle drug. It's a prescription but you might ask your doctor about that one. Nothing helped with my diarrhea before.
30263Joined Oct 18, 2008
Fri, October 17, 2008 12:00 AM
Reply posted for yitzyc.
I know what you mean. I'm not a runner, but every doctor you speak with recommends that you exercise. How many times can you run to the bathroom when you're trying to exercise, especially trying to run or in a gym (which is where I have problems). The only suggestion I can make is to pay attention to when you normally have the most trouble, and plan a route with public bathrooms. Sometimes Immodium helps. I take it if I know I'm going to a place that may be a challenge. I have to plan even my car ride to work to be within public restrooms. You never know. But these attacks do tend to come and go and you will feel better.
Joined Oct 7, 2008
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