Physical Test Normal,gaseous And Smelly Stool

Posted on Tue, 19 Jul 2011

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Tue, 19 Jul 2011 Answered on

Sat, 26 May 2012 Last reviewed on

Question : I am 53, 5-10, 185. Had a physical 5 wks ago; everything was normal. Lately I've had gaseous, smelly, floating, sometimes stringy, stools. Your thoughts?

Answered by Dr. Rhea Chanda (34 minutes later)

Hi,

Thanks for the query.

Gaseous,smelly floating stools is called steatorrhea.It means that there is excess fat in your diet.Steatorrhea can also be caused by infections, medications, or conditions that disrupt the absorptive lining of the intestines, such as Crohn's disease and celiac disease.You need to monitor your food intake and content.You may also need to de-worm your system.
I suggest you monitor your intake for a week or so.If no change,you should see your doctor for a stool test,to start with.

Hope I have answered your query. If you have any follow up queries I will be available to answer them.

Regards,

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T