Any runners out there with IBS?......

[Enyala]

Hi- I’ve been having problems when running and was wondering if any one else has managed to overcome this problem......

I suffer from IBS but it’s usually manageable with medication But- every time for the last half dozen or so runs I’ve done, whether morning or evening, I have to stop for a toilet break, more than once! My runs are severely restricted as I can only run where I know there are places I can “go”in an emergency and any race would be out of the question without a large dose of Imodium, which I would prefer not to take.

I’m feeling quite depressed about it and it’s putting me off running and I’m so gutted as I really am enjoying the benefits of being a new, but slow, runner. I’ve considered just running on a treadmill at the gym as a last resort- at least I would be near the loo- but I like running outside. It just feels more beneficial somehow.

It’s just so frustrating and I don’t know the best way to tackle it. Sorry it’s a bit of a personal subject but I’m hoping someone will take pity and give me helpful suggestions to try- fingers crossed!

[davelinks Graduate10]

womensrunninguk.co.uk/healt...

[Enyala Graduate10 in reply to davelinks]

That’s very helpful-thanks.

[Malc73]

Hi, I suffer from Crohn’s disease so fully understand your dilemma.

I take part in races but I use Loperamide (Imodium). I simply couldn’t manage my nerves/excitement without it. There is no harm in this.

As for your training runs, you are probably becoming more fixated on the toilet issues thus getting nervous and needing the loo. Until you get your no loo confidence back I’d say run shorter distances and build up your confidence, not eating for a few hours before you run will also definitely help. Plan routes with accessible toilets.

MacDonalds, Leisure centres, garages etc. hopefully this will put you at ease and allow you to keep on running.

[Enyala Graduate10 in reply to Malc73]

Thanks- if you’re still running with Crohns then I have no excuses! I agree I might be overthinking this and I’m going to do shorter routes as you suggest and see how I go. I’m feeling happier already now I have a plan !!!

[Langley-Loper Graduate10]

You have my sympathy and don't feel embarrassed - this is a very common problem among runners even if we don't talk about it. I have issues on almost every run and plan my route carefully. I have dashed into pubs and behind trees and actually pooped my pants once. I refuse to be defeated by it and take loperamide for events and long training runs. Always carry tissues. Don't drink coffee or other caffeinated drinks before a run and try and identify your food triggers. I am still trying to work out mine!

[Enyala Graduate10 in reply to Langley-Loper]

I can’t tell you what a relief it is to know I’m not alone! I won’t let it defeat me and I’ll take all the good advice I’ve been given and put it to good use. Me and my dog have more in common than I thought -it doesn’t matter what time of day or night we start running about - we both need to go pretty soon after we start! I’ll just have to plan more and eat less, maybe try shakes and not solids or something. Anyway, thanks for replying and your honesty!