March 5, 2024- Day 7 of a U.C. flare
-Yes, my tummy still hurts.
Hi, I'm Bri and I like to run. After moving back to Pennsylvania from Florida, I started to get into winter running when...
My U.C. rudely catcalled me!
GRRRRRRRRヽ༼ ಠ益ಠ ༽ﾉ
For those thinking "What the heck is U.C.?" U.C. or Ulcerative Colitis is basically the less talented child to its favored sibling, Chrohn's Disease. Still have no idea what I'm talking about? Let me explain *Ahem* Ahem* *Initiating Professor Bri mode*
As depicted above, U.C. is categorized as a chronic autoimmune disease. Meaning, the body's immune system basically turns on itself. In U.C. the immune cells attack the large intestine. This results in inflammation and ulcers in the colon and other fun symptoms- think of it like chronic IBS!
Despite being chronic, U.C. symptoms CAN be managed. Leading many U.C. warriors to experience periods of remission (little to no symptoms) or flares (ANGRY COLON).
Having a fair share of flares, I can detest THEY ARE THE WORST. But they can lead to silly lil E.R. selfies like this one:
Or overcoming any fear of needles due to countless amounts of blood tests!
The absolute worse thing though? The inability to run! It is hard enough to not 💩 on runs with a 'healthy' colon. Now imagine running with a disease where one of the symptoms is "a sudden uncontrollable urge to go". Yeah, running isn't the best for active flares.
In all seriousness flares suck. 'Health foods' like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains are often off-limits due to their fiber content. Not only do you feel sick, but your body feels weaker as your body is missing nutrients!
Yes, flares suck. But they also present an opportunity to practice compassion. In our fast-paced society it can be hard to take a break, but at this time that's what your body needs. For me, that means lots of rest, gentle yoga (and not getting mad at myself if it feels 'hard') and LOTS of ginger and turmeric tea.
This flare shall pass, and I'll run again soon. Till then sprinting to the bathroom will just have to do (doo).
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