It is a condition commonly associated with long-distance running but can happen with any intense physical exercise.
Runner’s diarrhea is thought to be due to physiological changes that occur when the body is overtaxed.
Diet and certain underlying medical conditions, likeirritable bowel syndrome (IBS), may increase the risk.
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Runner’s diarrhea is rarely serious but can lead to severedehydrationif left untreated.
Changes in diet and workout habits can help prevent flare-ups.
This article describes the symptoms and causes of runner’s diarrhea, including medical conditions that may contribute.
It also offers simple tips on how to prevent it.
The episodes are characterized by:
Runner’s Diarrhea or Heat Stroke?
Ischemic Causes
Ischemiadescribes the sudden loss of blood flow to tissues.
Colitis also increases contractions of smooth muscles that move stool through the intestine.
Both of these factors contribute to diarrhea.
The very nature of running promotes diarrhea by mechanically and rhythmically moving the intestine with each step.
Other sports that involve running and sudden shift changes in direction can do the same.
Even so, not every athlete who eats FODMAPs gets runner’s diarrhea.
Other experts contend that caffeine can lead to runner’s diarrhea due to its mild laxative effect.
When paired with increased body temperature, the laxative effect may be intensified.
Overhydrating can also potentiate diarrhea.
By mitigating these factors, you may reduce your risk of runner’s diarrhea.
Treating or managing these conditions may help reduce the risk.
Women and people under 50 are at greater risk.
Nervous diarrhea may be eased by practicingrelaxation exercisesbefore exercising.
These include meditation, deep breathing exercises, andprogressive muscle relaxation (PMR).
If you havechronic anxiety, it may be in your best interest to seek treatment with a therapist.
Studies have shown that chronic anxiety increases the risk of chronic diarrhea by more than threefold.
Adjusting the intensity of your workouts, wearing lighter clothes, and avoiding overhydration may also help.
Faress A, Masood S, Mian A.
‘Runs’ from a run: a case of exercise induced ischemic colitis.World J Emerg Med.
International Foundation for Gastrointestinal Disorders.IBS diet.
2014;39(3):302-11. doi:10.1111/apt.12582
