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Hi, I'm 59 and was diagnosed with Colitis two years ago.  Since retiring I normally take a three mile walk around the neighborhood every day and play golf once a week.  In order for me to do that I usually wake up two hours prior to leaving on the walk or golf, so that I have ample time for my system to settle down and to avoid accidents.  I also limit myself to a piece of toast or have nothing to eat at all. Sometimes this approach works and sometimes it doesn't and I have either cut my activity short or rush to find a restroom.  Luckliy, there are several port-a-potties along the route of my walk.  I have on occasion not made a connection however.  Golfing is a different story.  Not eating or just having a piece of toast takes a toll. I get physcially and mentially tired toward the end of the round and it becomes a challenge to finish.  Restrooms on the golf course are few and far between..  I snack on granola bars during the round but I try to limit myself so that I am close to either the club house or a restroom. It can be troublesome and stressful instead of enjoyable some time.  Luckliy my buddies understand my condition and are supportive.

So my question is, does anyone have any suggestions on how to better approach this situation.  I'm open to all comments and recommendations.

JVB

 Reply posted for JVB.

Hi,

I have found that if I drink Ensure during the daytime hours for breakfast, lunch, and a snack I can make it through the day with minimum need for the bathroom.  I will then have a regular dinner when I know I will be home or close to a bathroom.  I have had  severe UC for 4 years.  Hope this helps.  I too have had many accidents on my frantic dash for a public restroom.  Life sure is fun, huh??

 Reply posted for princess anna.

I was diagnosed in 98 at the age of 48. I continue to play lots of golf and tennis, always knowing where the b.rooms are.

Anti DIA. pills really help but make me tired. I feel your pain.

 Reply posted for JVB.

Hello JBV.

I think it is wonderful that you are finding ways to continue activities that you enjoy. I'm 27 and had my first UC flare 4 yrs ago. About a year ago I decided not to let this disease keep me from going on walks so I swallowed my pride and bought some Depends (store-brand, actually). While they certainly are no substitute for a bathroom, they will give more protection than panty liners and they buy me a litte more time in getting to a bathroom.

I also reccomend trying some other forms of exercise that keep you closer to a bathroom. Some examples: Gardening/yard work (my new interest), lap swimming, water aerobics, dance lessons, or joining a gym.

Keep up the golfing and walking and let me know what solutions you find.

 Reply posted for ontheedge.

I do take immodium before shopping and before any appointment. dental, hair, and  an occasional class. I eat crackers and drink water on these occasions.  It is a real PAIN.  Good luck.    

 Reply posted for JVB.

Hi JVB, I do feel your pain I was diagnosed with Crohns and UC in '99. I am a fastpitch umpire and will often do tournaments with very small breaks in between games sometimes. Most often times I will not eat the morning of and go most of the day until the late afternoon break where I will at least have an hour. Knock on wood it has worked so far but I do pay at the end of the day from extreme fatigue.

As mentioned by another poster that they use immodium and or lomitol before hand....oh how I wished that worked for me. I'm going on 2 years now that I have not had a complete full nights sleep, I get up anywhere from 2 to 6 times a night to use the restroom, I am so thankful for the days when it's only 2. Definitely consult your gastro before taking immodium or getting a prescipt for the lomitol to make sure it's ok for your system and illness.

I wish you the best of luck with your illness and golf game!

 Reply posted for JVB.

Hello,

I am a runner and when my colitis is active, it is crazy what happens to me when I try to run.  But, my doctor advised taking 2 immodium in the morning to help calm things down and it works like a charm.  It takes about 1 1/2 hours for them to fully kick in, but after that, I am good to go for miles without issues - most of the day in fact.  I buy the Immoduim AD anti gas type and I am very happy with the results.

Good luck!

WW

 Reply posted for lxslxandr.

Reply posted for IXSLXANDR

Thanks for the information, I'll certainly try the immodium and protein bars.  And I have on occasion used panti liners.

Thanks again,

JVB

 Reply posted for JVB.

Hi, I am 39 and have been diagnosed with Crohns since I was 22.  Prescription lomotil works wonders for me.  A lot of people use over the counter Immodium.  I have had my colon removed so the amount of immodium needed is so much the lomotil is cheaper.  I would recommend eating a protein bar instead of a granola bar.  Try these things, if you have accidents you could put two panti liners (yeah, I know, for women) in the back of your underpants side by side to collect small to moderate amounts and put a second pair of underwear over the top.  If you have an accident you can go to the nearest restroom to change.  I would put extra panti liners and maybe underwear in something small like a fanny pack.  Take a zip lock bag too for soiled underwear.  Good luck.