I have to go # 2 when i do cardio!

[eme1224]

almost every time i run or do the eliptical i feel like i have to poop, the strange thing is, i never really have to go its just a sensation, and its not a comforatable urge either, it first feels like lower abdominal period cramps or like im about to have diarrhea, then if i continue doing whatever im doing it quickly waves upward into nausea and i get really sweaty and the color drains from my face. I actually fainted on the way into the bathroom to vomit the first time i had this sensation, this was last january. now if i get those diarrhea cramps i stop what im doing because i dont want that to happen again. But after the cramps pass i feel weak, its bizzare. Im 5'7" 135lbs, i eat a normal diet, and i keep very well hydrated so i dont believe its due to dehydration or malnutrition. i take 20 mg Paxil daily for anxiety, and i have mild asthma that is controlled with flovent and prn albueterol. im otherwise very healthy! im 22 years old. I'm wondering if this is a vagus nerve response from bowel stimulation from excersise? It doesnt happen every time i work out, but its been happening enough for me to wonder about it because it cuts my workouts short. i dont get the sensation when i swim so i prefer to do that most of the time. any thoughts/suggestions would be great!

[Dr Vinod]

Hello!

Your BMI is very healthy, 21.1; you can avoid elliptical.

With elliptical always try with low speeds and with low resistance levels, you can also do some other forms of cardio. Try stationary bike and also treadmill which are low in intensity.

Elliptical is always more exertive than any other form of cardio in the gym, so these symptoms can occur in some individuals till you adapt with it.

You are also on medications and you can have side effects.

Eat healthy and avoid exercises which are uncomfortable.

Take care!

[BeeFree]

Hey girl,

This is common. It's usually from a combination of impact/gravity and overexertion. Some people feel nauseous during tough workouts (like me) and others feel the need urge to run to the toilet (like my mother.) Exercise really helps get things moving. But you can better control it with appropriate amounts of fluids (and sometimes less water is better pre-workout in this case and sipping as you go instead) and trying to not push yourself too hard too soon. It might take a little experimenting to see what works best for you, but generally a 20-minute warmup is best before upping your speed or resistance, and make sure to cool down again before you step off the elliptical. It won't last forever. Your body will become accustomed to your workouts and soon you'll see it'll take a lot more to make you feel icky.
Keep at it girl!