Thanks SO MUCH for having the courage to post this thread and to talk about the problems you have been having.
I have had some GI issues that have been going on since April 22nd (I remember the day as it started after completing a tri that day!).
My problems come and go, but sometimes my stool is bloody. It's not consistent though. There are some days though when I have 7-9 bowel movements... and trust me, they aren't small! He said this could be a problem as that means my body isn't digesting any nutrients.
I went to the Dr. yesterday and he is talking antibiotics and then possibly a colonoscopy (? spelling). Which I want to avoid if I can.
I have copied what you posted above and I will be taking it to my Dr. He doesn't see a lot of athletes, so it might be useful. He even mentioned that he wanted to rule out Kron's (? spelling) disease, etc. He suspects it is a bateria problem in my intestines causing all my issues (aka: bowel movements and sometimes bloody stool).
So, thanks for posting this. I've been a bit embarrased by my problem and haven't really talked to too many people about it. Ya know? It's nice to know that I'm not alone.
"Life is not a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well preserved body, but rather, to skid in broadside thoroughly used-up, totally worn out, and loudly proclaiming: WOW WHAT A RIDE!!!!"