FLATULENCE

By Dr. Marion Somers, Ph. D., Ask Dr. Marion

QUESTION: When I visit my father in his home, he has terrible gas and the whole house smells bad. I don't want to visit him because of his digestive disorders. Can you recommend a simple solution for my father? Frank in Pennsylvania, 49

ANSWER: This is a more common problem than most people think and there really is no simple solution. The body is like a machine. It takes in fuel (food and liquids) to make it run. When the body is not functioning efficiently, flatulence or gas can occur. To figure out what is going on with your father, you have to become a detective and observe and ask countless questions. Since quick fixes don't usually have long-lasting results, you need to figure out what can be done to get your father functioning at full capacity again.

So put on your detective hat and start. Determine if he is experiencing bloating, gas retention, and/or pain, and if so, where. When does this happen: Before, after, or during meals, and which meals? All of this information needs to be brought to the attention of your father's primary doctor and possibly a geriatric specialist (gastroenterologist) who deals with digestive and or internal problems. You might also consult a nutritionist and/or an allergist.

Each doctor has a specialty. The primary doctor may know your father over a long period of time and be able to deduce from observation and tests what changes may be needed. The nutritionist will test for what foods, liquids, vitamins, and/or medications may need to be increased or decreased. The allergist will test for allergic reaction since people can become sensitive to foods that they have enjoyed all their lives.

A full account of what your father eats and drinks needs to be recorded for a few weeks, down to the smallest morsel. This includes all medications, vitamins, and any over the counter items he may be self-medicating with. This information then needs to be given to the doctor(s) involved. Keep each doctor fully informed and involved, and when possible, have them work as a team for the benefit of your father's quality of life. Some foods that commonly cause gas are: Apricots, bananas, beans, broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, grains, radishes, sprouts, and whole wheat flour. Once all of the clues are gathered and thoroughly investigated, the problem may be solved, and you can once again enjoy your visits with your father.