Q: When I run, I need to go to the bathroom (pee) all the time! I need to go about every 2-3 miles, which impacts the amount of time and distance I can run. How am I supposed to train for a longer distance race if this keeps happening? What could be the issue? What should I do? I don’t want to skimp on water!
A:
TO PEE OR NOT TO PEE
The need to pee while running is a common problem.Frequent urination while running can be due to several different causes.Once you start running, your heart starts pumping the blood more rapidly throughout your body. This may stimulate your kidneys to produce more urine, especially if you are “over-hydrated” prior to your run.Monitor your water intake.It is obviously important to stay hydrated,but if you are drinking unnecessary amounts of water before your run,it could easily be the problem. Stay hydrated for days leading up to your long runs and drink about 16 ounces of water one hour before your run.
Avoid caffeinated beverages.Coffee before your morning run can be the culprit since it can irritate the bladder and works as a diuretic.Alcohol can also cause this,but hopefully most of us are not running after co*cktails.
Another reason for frequent urination could be restrictive clothing--really “tight” running tights or shorts can put unnecessary pressure on the bladder--which can increase the urge to stop and go. If you are pregnant, plan for more pitstops. The fetus will add pressure to the bladder and will increase the need for more numerous stops.
If the need to stop every 2-3 miles does not cease, then you should be evaluated by your physician.There are many other causes of frequent urination,all of which can be addressed medically. These can include infection, inflammation, diabetes, or even cancer.
Lastly, if you need to go,stop and go.Holding it in can cause a host of other problems, so listen to your body and...keep running!
Have a question forDr. Elizabeth Matzkin? E-mail your question to Zelle@Rodale.com
Dr. Elizabeth Matzkin is an orthopedic surgeon in Boston, Massachusetts and is affiliated with multiple hospitals in the area, including Brigham and Women's Faulkner Hospital and Brigham and Women's Hospital. She received her medical degree from Tulane University School of Medicine and has been in practice for 10 years. She’s also a runner.
