21 Bizarre Side Effects of Becoming a Running Junkie

Forget what you think you know about pounding the pavement. While the world champions the meditative calm and powerful endorphin rush of a good run, true running junkies know there's a whole other, utterly bizarre world beneath the surface. Beyond the blissful sleep and calorie-torching prowess, dedicating your life to the miles transforms you in ways no self-help book ever warned you about. You might start noticing things: whispers of the strange, the unexpected, even the downright weird. We've delved deep into the delightful oddities that accompany a full-blown running obsession, and we're thrilled to expand our field guide to the human body's quirky adaptations. Prepare yourself, because what began as a curious list has now grown into 21 Bizarre Side Effects of Being a Running Junkie.

1. Racer’s Cough

Runners can experience something known as racer’s cough, but it not a sign of poor health. Marathon runners and even those who have set the treadmill to high speed for the first time may exhibit racer’s cough. This cough does not imitate that of a flu cough but is the result of the increased contraction of muscles that line the lungs. One may also develop a cough when running for long periods in humid and cold environments. Those who suffer from asthma experience a similar condition. Excessive running when one first starts a running routine is the ideal condition to develop the racer’s cough, but covering the mouth with a piece of fabric such as a light scarf can provide some relief.

2. Bloody Taste

When a runner pushes the body past the usual workout routine tolerance, it is normal to experience a blood taste in the back of the throat. The bloody taste is caused by red blood cells popping. When red blood cells are strained, they release an iron-containing compound called heme which results in the metallic taste in the mouth. It is also possible for red blood cells to leak into air sacs during extreme conditions. The unpleasant taste should be temporary, but it is important to notice if the sensation happens all the time. The recurrence of a bloody taste could be a sign of a health issue, and one should see a doctor to avoid serious problems.