To ride or not to ride

[pll]

I had planned on driving to Wisconsin for a 64 mile hilly ride this weekend, but I'm dealing with a bout, first time ever for me, of gastritis or something of the kind...

I saw a doctor, who ran some blood work (all clear) and prescribed Prilosec OTC, twice a day, to see if the problem goes away over the weekend. Yesterday was quite uncomfortable, last night I woke up with pain more times than I can count, but I feel better this afternoon -- abdominal pain nearly gone. Since last night, I have had only chicken broth, white rice, chicken soup with rice, a banana, peppermint tea, water...

My question to you is what to eat during the organized ride and whether to avoid sports drinks (because of their acidity), assuming I have no pain at all by Friday night. I will still watching my diet, which will be a harder since I will be away from home. Perhaps I simply should not go. I lose the registration money, but that is preferable to a recurrence of the discomfort I experienced this week. Yikes.

[redrhodie]

I know my mother would have said to stay home. How are you feeling? Have you decided what to do? I would probably go and try to ride if there's SAG. I think drinking sports drinks would be good, because you're probably at risk for dehydration from your symptoms, but maybe small sips often rather than downing it. Also water if that's been helping.

I hope you're back to eating again. It would be pretty hard to ride if you haven't been able to fuel. You might be too weak. Play it safe! Edit: Do what sounds fun! If going sounds gross, don't do it.

[pll]

Thanks redrhodie! I decided not to go. I went to work today and I was lightheaded and exhausted. Before heading home for the day, I cancelled the hotel reservation. The drive up there seems daunting right now, so that is a good indicator I should stay put, rest and control what I eat for a few days more. I am bummed, because that ride (Wright Stuff Century) is beautiful and challenging. However, I'd rather not experience again the discomfort I felt this week...

[malkin]

Take care of yourself; you're the only self you've got.

[Reesha]

Thanks redrhodie! I decided not to go. I went to work today and I was lightheaded and exhausted. Before heading home for the day, I cancelled the hotel reservation. The drive up there seems daunting right now, so that is a good indicator I should stay put, rest and control what I eat for a few days more. I am bummed, because that ride (Wright Stuff Century) is beautiful and challenging. However, I'd rather not experience again the discomfort I felt this week...

There's always the Ride the Rivers Century in St. Louis in October (the best time of year here!). I will ride it with you if you come down :)

[pll]

Sounds tempting! But riding a century and driving 6 hours back right after... yikes! Bike Chick might be doing it -- see the North Central section in the forum...

[Reesha]

My only reservation is how expensive it is. I think it's $75 bucks to register. I'd rather ride 100 miles on my own and donate $75 bucks toward my fundraising goal!