running - side cramp issues

I try to run like 2 miles a day but lately I've been getting a bad cramp on my right side. Normally I do the elliptical for like 45 minutes and then I'll run for 20-25 from like 4.8-6.5mph. I've been doing this for about 2 months and haven't had any problems with it until recently. I just seem to get a really bad cramp under my rib cage like on my side and it just moves to the front (only on the right half though). I try to drink less water when I'm on the elliptical bc I thought it might have to do with that but that doesn't seem to matter. Anyone else have this problem or any suggestions? Do I just run lop-sided or something and that makes it hurt lol?

I have this problem too, I run about 2 miles everyday and I feel like I could run more because I'm not really winded and my legs feel great but its the cramp on my right side that kills me and makes me stop!! I would love to know what to do about this!!!

ps I frequently sport the lopsided run, I feel slightly ridiculous but whatever works.

What you're describing sounds like a stitch, which is your diaphragm getting unhappy.  If you find that if you push in on your side and slow down or stop running and it goes away, this is a stitch.  I don't get these on the bike, usually, but I definitely get them if I run on the elliptical trainer and I'm not paying attention to my breathing.  Less water is definitely NOT the way to go.  Learning cadence breathing will help you keep your diaphragm under control and stop this spasm.  Check out: http://www.time-to-run.com/tips/breathing/cad ence.htm

I still get those badly. But I run through them. Works for me. Dont slow down when your running but put as much pressure as you can on the area and run through it. The cadence breathing is a good idea but I think if you run long enough you do it naturally.

Side stitches are the bane of many runners' existence!  Pressure is very helpful -- I used to keep a sweatshirt or hoodie handy on my runs to tie around my waist with the knot tightest at the point where the stitch was the worst -- works pretty well.  Finding control of your breathing is key -- it takes time and practice, but it's worth it!

I think it has to do with your breathing.  Make sure you are breathing correctly.  Also, some of these side stitches could be caused by dehydration.

Yep i get the same thing, it's totally common for runners, I find if I drink alot beforehand I get it worse. Offically you are supposed to either push your hand under your rib cage or breathe out when your left foot hits the ground to get rid of it. But it usually goes away after 20mins by itself anyway.

Maybe it's because you're not getting enough water?  I've heard that cramps are caused by your muscles getting dehydrated.  I mean, I've gotten them if I drink too much water RIGHT before I run, but maybe try chugging a crapload of water an hour or so beforehand.

thanks for the ideas! today it like came within my first 2 minutes of running and I just shoved my hand under my rib cage hard and kept running. it was still pretty miserable but it's good to know that I can run through it. It's just been weird for me bc they just started happening, and now it's basically everytime I run. it's so frustrating bc I was just getting into the running everyday thing and I was really enjoying it but this whole stitch thing makes it a little less fun

I've found that when I get them, it helps to start walking briskly, and breathe in deep, expanding your stomach with the breaths.

Make sure you drink plenty of water. :)