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What causes poop to smell. 9 Common Causes of Smelly Poop: Expert Insights and Solutions

What causes your poop to smell unusually strong. How can certain foods affect stool odor. When should you be concerned about foul-smelling bowel movements. What lifestyle changes can help reduce unpleasant poop odors.

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The Science Behind Poop Odors: Understanding the Basics

Ever wonder why poop smells the way it does? The odor of our stool is primarily caused by bacteria and their byproducts during the digestion process. While some level of smell is normal, unusually foul-smelling poop can sometimes indicate underlying health issues or dietary factors.

Dr. Samantha Nazareth, a New York City-based gastroenterologist, explains: “If there’s a divergence in smell (let’s say one occurrence), then it could be from something you ate or drank. But if it’s consistently abnormal (as in, different from what your poop usually smells like), then there may be something else going on.”

It’s important to pay attention to persistent changes in stool odor, especially when accompanied by other symptoms like cramping, gastrointestinal pain, weight loss, or changes in stool appearance (e.g., floating, sticky, or bloody). These situations warrant evaluation by a medical professional.

Sulfur-Rich Foods: A Common Culprit for Pungent Poop

One of the most frequent causes of extra-smelly poop is the consumption of sulfur-rich foods. These include:

  • Meat
  • Cheese
  • Cruciferous vegetables (Brussels sprouts, broccoli, cauliflower)

Dr. Yeral Patel, a California-based functional medicine physician, explains why these foods can lead to more odorous stools: “Sulfur-rich foods are harder to digest than other foods, so your gut has to work overtime to get the job done. During this process, more gasses are released—hence the more pungent smell.”

How to Manage Sulfur-Related Poop Odors

If your diet is heavy on sulfur-rich foods, consider these strategies:

  1. Reduce portion sizes of sulfur-rich foods
  2. Avoid combining multiple sulfur-rich foods in a single meal
  3. Gradually increase your intake of these foods to allow your digestive system to adapt

Food Intolerances: When Your Gut Can’t Handle Certain Foods

Sometimes, foul-smelling gas or loose, smelly poop can be a sign of an underlying food intolerance. Dr. Nazareth points out, “A common one is lactose, but people can also have fructose and other carbohydrate intolerances. The sugar component of the food item isn’t being broken down by the gut.”

When certain foods aren’t properly digested, they can ferment in the gut, leading to increased gas production and malodorous stools. This process is similar to how food smells if left to rot on a kitchen counter.

Identifying Food Intolerances

To determine if a food intolerance is causing your smelly poop:

  • Keep a food diary for 1-2 weeks
  • Note any meals or snacks that lead to digestive issues
  • Look for patterns in ingredients that may be triggering problems

If you identify potential trigger foods, you may need to reduce or eliminate them from your diet. However, before making significant dietary changes, consult with a healthcare professional. They may be able to recommend digestive enzymes or other strategies to help you better tolerate problematic foods.

Alcohol Consumption: How Your Favorite Drinks Affect Your Poop

Both the type and amount of alcohol you consume can impact the smell of your stool. Alcohol is high in sulfates, which gut bacteria convert into smelly sulfide gases. Additionally, alcohol can alter the speed of digestion, leading to changes in stool odor and consistency.

Dr. Patel explains, “Sometimes, when you’ve consumed too much alcohol, the colon works extra hard to excrete the excess waste, flushing it more quickly through your system.” This rapid transit, combined with any undigested waste, can result in particularly foul-smelling stools.

Tips for Reducing Alcohol-Related Poop Odors

  1. Drink in moderation
  2. Space out your alcoholic beverages
  3. Stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water
  4. Consider alternating alcoholic drinks with water or other non-alcoholic beverages

Processed and Junk Foods: A Recipe for Digestive Distress

Highly processed and sugary foods can be a significant contributor to smelly poop. These foods are often difficult to digest, leading to a longer digestion process and increased gas production. Dr. Patel notes, “As a result, the digestion process takes longer, food remains in your system longer, and the body produces more gasses.”

Furthermore, junk food is typically high in fat, which can cause additional digestive issues. Dr. Nazareth explains, “Sometimes the body can’t break down and absorb the excess [fat] properly. The fat then passes through undigested and causes smelly poop.”

The Impact of Additives and Chemicals

Processed foods often contain various chemicals and additives that can disrupt normal digestive processes. These substances may:

  • Alter gut bacteria balance
  • Irritate the intestinal lining
  • Slow down digestion
  • Increase inflammation in the digestive tract

To minimize the impact of processed foods on your digestive health and reduce the likelihood of smelly poop, try to limit your intake of these items and focus on whole, nutrient-dense foods instead.

Medications and Supplements: Unexpected Causes of Odorous Stools

Many people are unaware that certain medications and supplements can contribute to smelly poop. The coatings on some pills, such as those containing sorbitol, can ferment in the gut and cause digestive issues, including foul-smelling stools.

Dr. Patel warns that even slightly exceeding the recommended dosage of vitamins and supplements can potentially disrupt bowel function and lead to unpleasant odors. It’s crucial to discuss any new medications or supplements with your healthcare provider to understand potential side effects and ways to mitigate them.

Managing Medication-Related Poop Odors

  • Always take medications and supplements as directed
  • Discuss any digestive side effects with your doctor
  • Ask about alternative formulations or timing of doses to minimize gut impact
  • Consider probiotic supplements to support gut health (with your doctor’s approval)

Constipation: When Slow Transit Leads to Smelly Stools

Constipation can be a surprising cause of particularly smelly poop. When stool moves too slowly through the digestive tract, it can lead to a buildup of bacteria and fermentation of undigested food particles, resulting in stronger odors.

Dr. Nazareth explains, “The longer the stool sits in your colon, the more time bacteria have to ferment what’s there. This can result in more pungent gasses and smellier poops when you finally do go.”

Strategies to Combat Constipation and Reduce Odor

  1. Increase your fiber intake through fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
  2. Stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day
  3. Engage in regular physical activity to promote bowel movements
  4. Consider using gentle, natural laxatives like prunes or psyllium husk
  5. Establish a regular bathroom routine to encourage regular bowel movements

If constipation persists despite these lifestyle changes, consult with a healthcare professional to rule out any underlying conditions and discuss additional treatment options.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Smelly Poop

While occasional changes in stool odor are usually not cause for concern, certain situations warrant medical attention. Dr. Nazareth advises seeking medical evaluation if you experience:

  • Persistent changes in stool odor lasting more than a few days
  • Foul-smelling stools accompanied by abdominal pain, cramping, or bloating
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Changes in stool consistency or appearance (e.g., oily, floating, or containing blood)
  • Frequent diarrhea or constipation
  • Symptoms of dehydration, such as dark urine or excessive thirst

These symptoms could indicate underlying digestive disorders, infections, or other health issues that require proper diagnosis and treatment.

Diagnostic Approaches for Persistent Smelly Poop

If you consult a healthcare provider about ongoing issues with smelly poop, they may recommend various diagnostic tests, including:

  • Stool analysis to check for infections or malabsorption issues
  • Blood tests to assess overall health and rule out certain conditions
  • Hydrogen breath tests to identify specific food intolerances
  • Endoscopy or colonoscopy to examine the digestive tract directly

Remember, early detection and treatment of underlying digestive issues can prevent more serious complications and improve your overall quality of life.

Lifestyle Changes to Promote Healthier, Less Smelly Bowel Movements

While some causes of smelly poop may require medical intervention, many cases can be improved through simple lifestyle modifications. Here are some strategies to promote healthier digestion and reduce unpleasant stool odors:

Dietary Adjustments

  • Increase fiber intake gradually to promote regular bowel movements
  • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day
  • Limit consumption of processed foods, excessive fats, and added sugars
  • Incorporate probiotic-rich foods like yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut to support gut health
  • Experiment with reducing or eliminating potential trigger foods

Lifestyle Habits

  1. Establish a regular exercise routine to promote digestive health
  2. Manage stress through techniques like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises
  3. Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption
  4. Get adequate sleep to support overall health and digestion
  5. Practice mindful eating by chewing thoroughly and avoiding distractions during meals

By implementing these lifestyle changes, you may notice improvements in your digestive health and a reduction in the frequency of unusually smelly bowel movements. However, if problems persist despite these modifications, don’t hesitate to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and treatment options.

Understanding the various factors that can contribute to smelly poop empowers you to take control of your digestive health. By paying attention to your diet, lifestyle habits, and any persistent changes in your bowel movements, you can work towards achieving healthier, less odorous stools and overall improved well-being.

9 Reasons You Have Smelly Poop

This article was medically reviewed by Leila Kia, M.D., a board-certified gastroenterologist and member of the Prevention Medical Review Board.

Chances are, you’ve experienced number two sessions so potent that busting out an air freshener was practically mandatory. Sometimes the culprit is super-obvious—a pint of ice cream here, some spicy street food there. Other times, not so much. And when it seems like your poop has become extra smelly out of nowhere, it’s hard not to freak out.

“Poop smells because of bacteria and their byproducts of digestion,” says New York City-based gastroenterologist Samantha Nazareth, M.D. “If there’s a divergence in smell (let’s say one occurrence), then it could be from something you ate or drank. But if it’s consistently abnormal (as in, different from what your poop usually smells like), then there may be something else going on.”

Scent changes that are accompanied by other iffy symptoms, such as cramping, gastrointestinal pain, weight loss, or changes in how your poop looks (think: floating, sticky, bloody) warrant evaluation by your doctor. As for what might be causing that extra-smelly poop of yours, below are several possible culprits—and exactly what to do about them.

1. You’ve been eating sulfur-rich foods.

      Sulfur-rich foods—a la meat, cheese, and cruciferous veggies (Brussels sprouts, broccoli, cauliflower)—are harder to digest than other foods, so your gut has to work overtime to get the job done.

      “During this process, more gasses are released—hence the more pungent smell,” says California-based functional medicine physician Yeral Patel, M.D. If your diet is heavy on foods that are high in sulfur, consider either shrinking your servings, or avoid combining several sulfur-rich foods in single meals.

      KuvonaGetty Images

      2. A food intolerance could be stirring up trouble.

      If you find that certain foods cause foul-smelling gas or loose, smelly poop, you might have an underlying intolerance. “A common one is lactose, but people can also have fructose and other carbohydrate intolerances,” says Dr. Nazareth. “The sugar component of the food item isn’t being broken down by the gut.” (Think of the way something smells if it’s left on the kitchen counter and rots.)

      Track your food intake for a week or two, and keep tabs on the meals and snacks that end with dicey trips to the throne.

      Gain *unlimited* access to Prevention

      You might find that certain ingredients play a starring role in your digestive debauchery and may need to be taken off the menu. If the thought of parting with these foods causes you to experience a real-life breakup montage, however, you can always find out from your doctor if certain digestive enzymes can give your gut a hand.

      3. You downed one too many cocktails.

      The kind of alcohol and how much of it you drink can both affect your poop. Alcohol itself is high in sulfates, which the bugs in your gut convert into stinky sulfide gasses. It also changes how fast your digestion works: “Sometimes, when you’ve consumed too much alcohol, the colon works extra hard to excrete the excess waste, flushing it more quickly through your system,” says Dr. Patel.

      The excess alcohol, combined with any undigested waste that exits along with it, is what creates that lovely morning-after stench. Besides drinking less or spreading out your cocktails, make sure to drink a lot of water, as dehydration from boozing it up can also affect the rankness of your poop.

      4. …or a pile of junk food.

      “Highly processed and sugary foods are all difficult to digest,” says Dr. Patel. “As a result, the digestion process takes longer, food remains in your system longer, and the body produces more gasses.”

      Plus, junk food is usually high in fat, and sometimes the body can’t break down and absorb the excess properly, says Dr. Nazareth. The fat then passes through undigested and causes smelly poop. To top it off, processed foods contain quite a few iffy chemicals and additives that can give your digestive system attitude, so best to scale back on your intake as much as possible.

      bigacisGetty Images

      5. It’s a side effect of your medication or supplements.

      Many medications are coated with substances, such as sorbitol, that can ferment in your gut, causing digestive drama and—you guessed it—smelly poop. Ditto for vitamins and supplements. Consuming even slightly more than the recommended amount can wreak havoc with the bowels too, says Dr. Patel, so make sure you discuss this with your doctor before taking, and ask whether there are steps you can take to avoid disruptions to your digestion.

      6. You’re constipated.

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      The longer poop takes to mosey its way through your colon, the longer it has to ferment and cause a stink. For situational constipation (say, due to traveling or not sleeping), try increasing your water intake and eating easily-digestible foods (baby food consistency), suggests Dr. Nazareth. “There are also stool softeners, fiber supplements, and OTC laxatives,” she adds. But if you’re still backed up and are depending on these OTCs to go to the bathroom, it’s time to check in with your doctor for a consult.

      7. A recent switch in your diet could be to blame.

      For people on a high-protein or high-fat diet where a lot of meats and cheeses are consumed, the smell of your poop will inevitably intensify. “Most people are used to getting fiber by way of the carbs in their diet, but when those are eliminated, many experience constipation,” says Dr. Patel. “Because the body produces more smelly gasses the longer the stool sits without being eliminated, the smell is unusually bad when it finally comes out.” Another side effect of consuming high-fat meats is that the body can’t deal with the excess fat, and smelly, putrid diarrhea results.

      To get the number two train back on the rails, try adding high-fiber foods to your diet that are also considered keto-friendly, such as non-starchy veggies, avocados, and nuts (and don’t forget to guzzle more water as you increase your fiber quota to keep things moving. )

      8. You have (or had) an infection.

      Gut infections can be viral, bacterial, or parasitic in nature, and cause the gastrointestinal tract to become inflamed—symptoms can include abdominal pain, vomiting, and smelly diarrhea. Your doctor can test your poop to determine exactly the type of infection you have and offer up an appropriate treatment option.

      But take note: If you’re prescribed antibiotics, this can also result in foul-smelling poop. The medications typically upset the dynamic between the good and bad bacteria in the gut, says Dr. Patel, so make sure to ask for ways to keep your gut flora happy during treatment.

      9. Your overall gut health needs work.

      The common thread underlying your poop problems is what docs call malabsorption, where the body can’t absorb certain nutrients properly (such as carbs, protein, or fats), and cause the undigested nutrients to smell pretty foul on the way out. “Some of the illnesses these symptoms can indicate are celiac disease, pancreatitis, Crohn’s disease, or inflammatory bowel disorder,” says Dr. Patel. “These are all conditions that require a doctor’s care and consultation.”


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      Krissy Brady
      Krissy is a regular contributor to Prevention, and she also writes for Cosmopolitan, Weight Watchers, Women’s Health, FitnessMagazine.com, Self.com, and Shape.com. 

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      6 Reasons You Have Smelly Poop—And What To Do About Each One

      It’s pretty much a given that your poop is never going to come out smelling like roses. But, while it doesn’t exactly smell great on the reg, a really bad odor can be a sign that something is off with your health.

      First, it’s important to go over some Number-Two basics. Poop (a.k.a. stool or feces) is “a bodily waste that is passed through the gastrointestinal tract and is made up of water, dead microorganisms, undigestible food matter, and some fats and cholesterol, in addition to several other minor components,” says gastroenterologist Marvin Singh, MD.

      There are actually a few different reasons why it usually smells. “This odor is from the undigested food, as well the gas produced by the bacteria in the gut,” says Seyedehsan Navabi, MD, assistant professor of clinical medicine at the Rutgers New Jersey Medical School. The most common odor-causing gases, in case you want specifics, are hydrogen sulfide, which has a lot of smelly sulfur, methyl sulfides, and benzopyrrole volatiles, he says.

      But the amount of gas in your poop—and how stinky it is—really depends on what you eat and how healthy you are, Dr. Navabi says. Example: You might have smellier-than-usual BMs after you eat a steak, because meat protein is rich in the amino acid methionine, which can create stinky sulfur-containing compounds. Cue you staring at your toilet, wondering what’s going on.

      If you have a few random stinky poops here and there, it’s likely no big deal. But if you notice that you’re regularly being blown away by just how much smell you’re producing, it could be a sign that something is off. Here are the biggest reasons your poop is so smelly, plus when it’s time to see a doctor about it.

      What causes smelly poop?

      There are actually a lot of potential things you can point a finger at, with some being more of a big deal for your health than others.

      1. You’re taking antibiotics.

      Your gut has what’s known as a bacterial flora, which is a collection of microorganisms that help break down your food. But, when you take antibiotics, it can tweak your bacterial flora “which leads to different byproduct,” says Aniqa Kohen, MD, a gastroenterologist at UBMD Physician’s Group. That change in bacteria can cause a change in smell, too.

      2. You have an infection.

      An infection can also mess with the bacteria in your gut. “Different bacterial, viral or parasitic infections can affect the digestive tract,” Dr. Navabi says. While they might cause diarrhea, they can also change the gas in your poop and create a smelly odor, he says.

      3. You have a food intolerance or allergy.

      When you have a food intolerance or allergy, your body can’t properly process a particular ingredient, Dr. Singh says. The combination of gas produced by bacteria that try to break it down and undigested food can lead to a stinky smell. It can also cause you to have stomach cramps and sometimes bleeding.

      4. You have Celiac disease.

      Having Celiac disease means that your body has an immune reaction to eating gluten, a protein found in wheat, and attacks the lining of the small intestine, Dr. Navabi explains. That damage to the lining of the gut can make it difficult to absorb nutrients and, as a result, you end up with symptoms like diarrhea or constipation, bloating, gas, stomach pain, and greasy, smelly poop.

      5. You have inflammatory bowel disease.

      Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is an umbrella term used to describe several autoimmune conditions like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Inflammation of the colon with ulcerative colitis can alter bacteria in the gut and cause bleeding—and both can lead to strong-smelling Number Two, Dr. Navabi says. Crohn’s disease can cause similar issues, along with difficulty absorbing nutrients, and that can also lead to stinky poop, he says. IBD as a whole can cause uncomfortable symptoms like diarrhea, stomach pain, nausea, and vomiting.

      6. Your body isn’t absorbing your food properly.

      There are a lot of things that can lead to your body not absorbing nutrients properly (aka malabsorption), Dr. Kohen says—an infection, gluten allergy, gut inflammation, and several syndromes. “Any time chronic inflammation occurs in the gut, it can alter the balance of the bacteria,” Dr. Navabi says. And that can add more gas to your poop. Cue the stink.

      When should I see a doctor for super smelly poop?

      Any time things seem off down there and they don’t go away after a few days or seem to be getting worse, it’s a good idea to call your doctor. But Dr. Kohen says you should call sooner rather than later if you have any of the following along with your persistently smelly poop:

      • Nausea
      • Vomiting
      • Weight loss
      • Blood in your poop
      • A family history of cancer or IBD
      • Fever
      • Chills
      • Joint swelling
      • Ulcers in your mouth
      • Pain around your eyes
      • Waking up at night to poop
      • You can’t get relief from over-the-counter medications

        How can I avoid smelly poops?

        If your smelly poop doesn’t seem to be linked to something serious, like intestinal bleeding, and you’re not having other severe symptoms, there are a few things you can do.

        • Take a closer look at your diet. If you’ve been eating a lot of garlic or onions lately, that could definitely be the culprit. But sometimes it can be a little harder to know what’s leading to that smell. “Often keeping a food diary might help you figure out what foods upset your gastrointestinal tract,” Dr. Singh says, adding that you should keep an especially close eye on gluten and dairy.
        • Try eliminating some foods. You can try weeding out certain foods, like meat, eggs, broccoli, cauliflower, and asparagus, Dr. Kohen says. These are notorious for causing stinky poops.
        • Consider using a probiotic. Probiotics can help restore the balance of healthy bacteria in your gut and “can help settle some GI symptoms if they are minor,” Dr. Singh says.
        • Drink more water. Sometimes, hydrating more can help flush out the stinky smell. “It is important to have adequate hydration for the health of the gut,” Dr. Navabi says.

          The bottom line: Smelly poop is mostly harmless, Dr. Navabi says, especially if you don’t have any other symptoms. But, if it doesn’t go away, and you’ve noticed some other symptoms along with your stinky poo, call your doctor about next steps.

          Korin Miller
          Korin Miller is a freelance writer specializing in general wellness, sexual health and relationships, and lifestyle trends, with work appearing in Men’s Health, Women’s Health, Self, Glamour, and more.

          This content is created and maintained by a third party, and imported onto this page to help users provide their email addresses. You may be able to find more information about this and similar content at piano.io

          4 Common Causes Of Foul Smelling Stool

          A foul-smelling stool can be very bad and will often lead you to think something’s wrong with you. Most of the time, the reason behind smelly poop is the food you eat. But other times, the foul-smelling stool can be due to disease or other health conditions. This blog post will explore a few causes of foul-smelling stool and the treatment options.

          Antibiotics
          One of the most common causes of smelly stool is antibiotics. Antibiotics can be harsh and can disturb the balance between good and bad stomach bacteria. A person may also experience an upset stomach. These symptoms are temporary and will go away as soon as you are done with your course of antibiotics (as good bacteria will come back to their normal population).
          Sometimes antibiotics can kill many good gut bacteria, and the bad overpopulate, leading to infection.
          The symptoms of infection include:

          • fever
          • abdominal pain
          • foul-smelling watery stool (may contain blood)

          Treatment
          The majority of times, the symptoms fade away as soon as the dose of antibiotics is complete. While the antibiotics are still on the go, you can follow some simple home remedies to alleviate the discomfort.

          • Drink plenty of water and other fluids to stay hydrated
          • Avoid food items that can disturb the intestines, such as dairy, wheat, and foods high in fiber

          Celiac Disease
          If you have celiac disease, your immune system may react to gluten found in barley, wheat, or rye and attack the small intestine’s lining. If the attacks continue or your body is unable to absorb the essential nutrients from the diet, you may experience other health issues, such as:

          • Body pain, tiredness
          • Pain in the joints
          • persistent diarrhea
          • mouth sores
          • itchy skin
          • foul-smelling stool
          • abdominal pain
          • bloating

          Treatment
          Prevention is the best treatment in this case, and if you have celiac disease, you should avoid and continue avoiding the gluten-free diet even after your small intestine has healed.

          Reaction to Lactose
          If you are lactose intolerant, your body won’t digest lactose, and if you consume milk or other dairy products, your body may hit up the symptoms such as:

          • foul-smelling stool (watery)
          • nausea
          • bloating
          • abdominal cramping

          Treatment
          The best and easiest way is to avoid milk products that cause intolerance. You can also take lactase enzyme pills to overcome the deficiency. Take the pills before consuming the milk products so it can be easy for your body to digest lactose.

          Inflammation Of The Pancreas
          Persistent inflammation of the pancreas can hurt your body’s ability to digest food and result in pancreatic hormones. Some of the symptoms are:

          • oily foul-smelling stool
          • nausea
          • vomiting
          • weight loss
          • your upper back or abdomen may hurt

          Treatment
          The best course of treatment for chronic pancreatitis is pain-relieving methods including:

          • pain relievers
          • undergoing surgery to eliminate pancreatic lesions
          • surgical removal of all or part of the pancreas

          This was just a brief list of the causes of foul-smelling stool. There are various other reasons that can cause the issue. For more information or a proper diagnosis of your condition, book an appointment with Gastroenterology Diagnostic Center by calling 281-357-1977.

          Giardiasis | Johns Hopkins Medicine

          What is giardiasis?

          Giardiasis is an infection caused by a parasite called Giardia. It causes diarrhea. It is passed on through oral contact with infected feces. You can get the parasite by eating food or drinking water that contains infected feces. When you travel, make sure not to drink water that may be unsafe.

          Giardiasis a common intestinal parasite. It is most prevalent in countries with poor sanitary conditions, poor water quality control, and overcrowding. However, it is also a common cause of parasitic infection in the U.S. Hikers and campers who drink water from streams and other potentially contaminated sources are often infected.

          What causes giardiasis?

          The parasite that causes giardiasis lives in two stages:

          • Trophozoites (the active form inside the body)
          • Cysts (the resting stage that enables the parasite to survive outside the body)

          Infection begins when the cysts are taken in through contaminated food or water. Stomach acid activates the cysts and the trophozoites are released. They attach to the lining of the small intestine and reproduce. Cysts form in the lower intestines and are then passed in the feces.

          The parasite may be passed from person-to-person by contact with infected feces, or through consuming contaminated food or water.

          What are symptoms of giardiasis?

          Symptoms of giardiasis may include:

          • Explosive, watery, foul-smelling stools
          • Greasy stools that tend to float
          • Bloating
          • Nausea
          • Loss of appetite
          • Abdominal (belly) pain
          • Excessive gas
          • Fatigue

          The time between infection and the start of symptoms is usually from 1 to 2 weeks. Some infected people have very mild symptoms or no symptoms at all. The symptoms of giardiasis are a lot like those of other gastrointestinal diseases. See a healthcare provider for diagnosis.

          How is giardiasis diagnosed?

          Diagnosis of giardiasis is made by testing stool samples in a lab. Several stool samples may be needed at different times. If you think you may have this illness, contact your healthcare provider for advice.

          How is giardiasis treated?

          Giardiasis may be treated with prescription medicines. Specific treatment for giardiasis will be determined by your healthcare provider based on:

          • How old you are
          • Your overall health and medical history
          • How sick you are
          • How well you can handle specific medicines, procedures, or therapies
          • How long the condition is expected to last
          • Your opinion or preference

          Several medicines can be used to treat the infection. Effective treatments include metronidazole, tinidazole, and nitazoxanide.

          What are the complications of giardiasis?

          If the infection is not treated and persists, you may not be able to absorb nutrients. It can also cause unintended weight loss.

          Can giardiasis be prevented?

          You can prevent giardiasis by practicing good personal hygiene. Proper hygiene when caring for those who may be infected with the parasite is also important. When visiting in an area where giardiasis may exist:

          • Drink only boiled water or bottled water or drinks.
          • Avoid ice and beverages made from tap water.
          • Do not eat locally grown uncooked or unpeeled fruits and vegetables.

          When should I call my healthcare provider?

          Call your healthcare provider if:

          • Your symptoms get worse or you have new symptoms
          • You lose your appetite and start to lose weight
          • You become dehydrated from prolonged diarrhea

          Key points about giardiasis

          • Giardiasis is an infection caused by a parasite called Giardia. It causes diarrhea.
            Symptoms include explosive, watery, greasy, foul-smelling stools, bloating, nausea, pain, gas, fatigue, and loss of appetite.
          • Several medicines are available that cure the infection.
          • Prevention includes good personal hygiene, and avoiding drinking water, fruits, and vegetables that may be contaminated with the parasite.

          Next steps

          Tips to help you get the most from a visit to your healthcare provider:

          • Know the reason for your visit and what you want to happen.
          • Before your visit, write down questions you want answered.
          • Bring someone with you to help you ask questions and remember what your provider tells you.
          • At the visit, write down the name of a new diagnosis, and any new medicines, treatments, or tests. Also write down any new instructions your provider gives you.
          • Know why a new medicine or treatment is prescribed, and how it will help you. Also know what the side effects are.
          • Ask if your condition can be treated in other ways.
          • Know why a test or procedure is recommended and what the results could mean.
          • Know what to expect if you do not take the medicine or have the test or procedure.
          • If you have a follow-up appointment, write down the date, time, and purpose for that visit.
          • Know how you can contact your provider if you have questions.

          Why Your Poop Smells So Bad

          So let’s just get clear about this. Nobody’s poop smells great. So smelly poop is totally normal. But sometimes you might have poop that smells worse than your norm, especially if you ate something different than you usually do or started new medications.

          The good news is smelly poop is typically harmless, except for the assault on your senses. Here’s why the bathroom might be so smelly and what you can do about it:

          You’re eating foods high in sulfates

          “The key thing that affects the smell of stool is diet. The food with which we fuel our system directly influences the bacteria in our digestive system and in our stool,” says Niket Sonpal, MD, a New York-based gastroenterologist and adjunct professor at Touro College. As food is broken down in the body, gases are produced as byproducts, and their smell can be pretty strong.

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          Men’s Health

          Foods that are high in sulfate content such as veggies, dairy, eggs, and meat can cause poop that smells like rotten eggs. “Sulfur is a necessary component in our diet, and certain foods high in sulfates increase sulfur gas as the byproduct of foods being broken down,” he says. These include broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, and other cruciferous veggies. Sulfates are also found in eggs, dairy, arugula, dry fruits, and garlic. If the bathroom smell is pretty rancid, try reducing the amount of sulfur-containing foods you eat (but don’t cut them out entirely; sulfur is essential to the body).

          You’re eating high-fat foods

          Foods that are high in fat can also cause smelly and even “oily” poop. “The fat left over that could not be broken down won’t be absorbed by the colon, and thus it passes through in an undigested form,” Dr. Sonpal says.

          This results in a smelly diarrhea-like stool referred to as steatorrhea. Again, no harm, but if you’re eating tons of fast food that is high in oily fats and have this problem frequently, you may want to dial it back for health reasons, too.

          Plus, if you aren’t on a high-fat diet like the keto diet but still notice steatorrhea, check with your doctor, as this could be an indicator that your body is having an immune reaction to gluten.

          You have a food intolerance

          Besides gluten, dairy could be an issue for you. “When your system doesn’t tolerate lactose, and you consume milk or milk-based ice cream, you are risking a very stinky run for the bathroom brought about by malabsorption,” he explains. So if scary post-dairy poops sound familiar to you, get checked by a doctor to see if you’re lactose-intolerant. Also, try cutting out the lactose for a while and seeing if it fixes the stool’s odor.

          You’re boozing

          Beer, wine, whiskey—of all things, alcohol could lead to smelly poop later on. “High levels of alcohol in the blood can affect organs in the body, such as your stomach and the intestines,” Dr. Sonpal says. High concentrations of alcohol can affect the flora in your intestines, so it doesn’t do its job as well as usual. The result: foul-smelling gas and poop. To mitigate it a bit, try drinking extra water when you have alcohol. (Good for you for a number of reasons.)

          You’re on certain medications

          “Medications like antibiotics or hormones can mess with gut bacteria, speeding up or slowing down the way poop moves through your intestines,” Dr. Sonpal says. Or they can cause malabsorption of certain nutrients, thereby causing smelly diarrhea. Either way check with your doc if your poop changed when your medications did.

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          Why Does Diarrhea Smell? – DiaResQ

          It’s a safe bet to say that all stool smells unpleasant, but when experiencing diarrhea, the smell can be worse than normal. There are several reasons why your diarrhea tends to smell, and in this article, you’ll learn why.

          Why Does Poop Smell Bad?

          Before getting into diarrhea, let’s take a quick look at what gives normal stool its characteristic odor.

          Stool is made up of a combination of dead cells, undigested food, mucus, and bacteria, some of which give off sulfurous compounds that often carry an odor. While this smell is usually normal, some things can cause poop to take on an abnormal smell, such as stool that has stayed in the colon for too long (due to constipation, for example), medication, or an infection.

          Why Does Diarrhea Smell Bad?

          You have probably noticed that your diarrhea smells worse than a regular bowel movement. Usually, your smelly diarrhea will resolve itself with proper hydration and rest, but there are cases when smelly diarrhea signifies a more serious problem.

          Bacteria, Viruses and Parasites

          Diarrhea is often caused by your body’s natural immune response to an unwanted intruder in your digestive tract. Inflammation of the stomach and digestive tract can occur due to bacteria in foods such as Salmonella or E. coli as well as viruses and parasites. All these intruders can lead to foul-smelling diarrhea and will frequently come with cramping and abdominal pain.

          Malabsorption

          The inability to properly absorb nutrients from foods (malabsorption) is not uncommon and could be due to a variety of factors. Overuse of antibiotics, a diet high in processed and packaged foods, chronic stress, food allergies and intolerances, conditions such as IBD and IBS are some of the most common causes. Symptoms of malabsorption can be flatulence, smelly stool and diarrhea, sometimes alternating with constipation.

          Medications

          Perhaps the easiest cause of smelly diarrhea to pinpoint is a medication or supplement you are taking. Antibiotics and other OTC and prescription medications could cause overly smelly diarrhea, as can something as simple as a multivitamin. If you’ve recently begun a new medication and think this could be the cause of foul-smelling diarrhea, talk with your doctor.

          What to Do About It

          To prevent unusual smelling diarrhea, avoid food you might be intolerant or allergic to and work with a healthcare practitioner to undergo an elimination diet or do allergy testing. Handle food hygienically in your kitchen and know what to avoid when traveling.

          As with any case of diarrhea (smelly or not), if you also experience symptoms of black, bloody or tarry stool or a high fever, it’s best to call your doctor.

          What causes bad breath even after brushing?

          While everyone has experienced bad breath at some point in their lives, some people have chronic halitosis that brushing and mouthwash won’t help. In some cases, these people have breath that smells like feces, which can be indicative of a more serious underlying medical condition that may require prompt medical attention. While poor oral hygiene can cause a person’s breath to smell like poop because of excessive bacterial growth and gum disease, sometimes it’s a symptom of a more significant health issue.

          One significant health issue that can cause the breath to smell like poop is an intestinal obstruction. This occurs when your small or large intestine is blocked, trapping feces and fermenting food in your body. This is a dangerous medical emergency that prevents newly ingested food from moving through the intestinal tract and prevents feces from leaving the body, leading to breath that smells like fermenting food and poop. Other symptoms of an intestinal blockage are decreased appetite, bloating, swelling of the abdomen, constipation, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, severe abdominal pain or cramps, and the inability to pass gas. Depending on the severity and extent of the obstruction, your doctor may prescribe intravenous fluids, or you may require surgery. You will also be medically treated for pain and nausea and instructed to take an antibiotic, to ward off infection.

          While an intestinal blockage clearly necessitates immediate medical attention, bad breath may also be a sign of other issues that would best be addressed by a general practitioner. Prolonged vomiting leads to dehydration, and both of these things can cause bad breath. If you’re vomiting because of a bowel obstruction, your breath will smell like feces, but you may be vomiting for other reasons, which will also cause bad breath. If you vomit excessively for any reason, talk to your general medical practitioner. Treatment for vomiting will depend on the cause. Sometimes, as with a virus or food poisoning, the symptom must simply be given time to pass. Depending on duration, treatment may consist of anti-nausea medication and IV fluids, and if you vomit excessively for more than a few days, continue to seek consistent medical attention.

          Sinus and respiratory infections may also cause a person’s breath to smell like feces. Infections like bronchitis, colds, viruses, and strep throat generate bacteria that move from your nose to your throat, causing pungently offensive breath. Sinus infections may have other symptoms, like thick, darkly colored nasal mucus, a fever, irritability and fatigue, swollen eyes, headache, and postnasal drip that may cause nausea or vomiting. Severe sinus infections are more prevalent in children than in adults. Most sinus infections can be effectively treated with prescription antibiotics and over-the-counter medication to treat pain and other uncomfortable symptoms that may accompany a sinus infection, like coughing and congestion.

          GERD, or gastroesophageal reflux disease, can cause a person’s breath to smell like feces because the stomach acid backs up into the esophagus. This acidic wash irritates the esophagus, which can cause extreme discomfort as well as foul breath. GERD is usually manifested by mild acid reflux once or twice a week, a severe reflux episode at least once a week, heartburn after eating, difficulty swallowing, regurgitation of sour food or liquid, laryngitis, cough, worsened or newly developing asthma, and insomnia. Depending on severity and frequency of symptoms, people with GERD choose a variety of treatments. Some use prescription or over-the-counter medications like antacids or proton pump inhibitors, both of which reduce the production of acid, or medications that help stabilize the lower sphincter of the esophagus. Most people with GERD know what foods aggravate their symptoms; if you do, avoid them when possible. In extreme cases of GERD, doctors may recommend surgery to tighten the lower esophageal sphincter, which prevents stomach acid from splashing into the esophagus.

          Another severe medical complication that can cause the breath to smell like poop is ketoacidosis, a serious complication of diabetes. When the body produces excessively high levels of ketones, which are acids in the blood, this is called ketoacidosis; this is most commonly seen in people with type 1 diabetes and requires immediate medical attention and hospitalization. Ketoacidosis causes profound dehydration and dry mouth, as well as prolonged vomiting, all of which can lead to breath that smells like feces. Symptoms of ketoacidosis are extreme thirst, frequent urination, nausea, vomiting, confusion, pain in the abdomen, a flushed face, rapid breathing, fruity-smelling breath, and fatigue; when tested, patients experiencing ketoacidosis have excessively high blood sugar levels and a high levels of ketones in the urine. While hospitalized, a person in a state of ketoacidosis will have their insulin and blood sugar levels medically stabilized, using treatments like insulin therapy and the replacement of fluids and electrolytes. If your ketoacidosis arose as a result of an infection or other illness, you may also receive antibiotics or other medication.

          Liver failure is another serious condition that may accompany breath that smells like feces. Acute liver failure requires immediate medical attention and often happens quite suddenly. Again, this leads to profound dehydration, which can cause the breath to smell like feces. Liver failure can lead to weight loss, jaundice, fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, easy bruising or bleeding, and the buildup of fluid in the abdomen or in the legs. In cases of acute liver failure, you may be given medications that reverse the effects of poisoning, or you may be recommended for a liver transplant if your condition is deemed irreversible by medical specialists. If you have chronic liver failure, which is caused by a condition like cirrhosis, you may be treated for alcohol dependence, medicated for hepatitis, advised to reduce your weight, or treated for other causes of cirrhosis.

          If your halitosis is caused by plaque buildup because of your own lapses in oral hygiene, visit the dentist for a cleaning. It will help heal the halitosis and may also allow the dentist insight into a possible underlying medical condition. Try to establish and maintain proper home hygiene, including brushing your teeth, gums, and tongue twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, using an antibacterial toothpaste or mouth rinse if recommended by your dentist, and flossing daily. If you have developed gum disease which is causing bad breath, your dentist can treat that, too, so make an appointment promptly. Treatment for the less-serious causes of halitosis is usually successfully within a short time period. If your dentist suspects a more serious cause for your halitosis, like intestinal obstruction, ketoacidosis, or liver failure, prompt emergency medical care is imperative. When intercepted early enough, these serious conditions can have a positive outcome, and you may be able to recover fully. In all cases, if you have foul breath, especially breath that smells like feces, see your dentist as soon as you can. If you have other symptoms, including those enumerated above, see your doctor immediately.

          More on Halitosis : Is bad breath a sign of illness?

          90,000 What products produce an unpleasant odor of sweat

          Some products can cause unpleasant odors from humans.

          Probably, each of us at least once in his life noticed that he suddenly began to smell somehow differently. Not very nice. But after a while, the smell of sweat became neutral again.

          Why is that?

          Doctors are sure – products with too strong smell or taste are to blame.It is they who “color” our individual body odor in not very pleasant shades.

          What foods should be, if not avoided, then at least eaten in moderate, “safe” quantities?

          Red meat. The amino acids it contains affect the body’s aroma. Moreover, the more meat you eat, the more noticeable the smell of sweat will be for those around you.

          Aromatic spices and garlic. During the digestion of these spices, sulfur-containing gases are formed, which are excreted from the body mainly through the skin.Unpleasant sweat odors can persist for up to seven days. The most “aromatic” spices are curry, cumin and cumin.

          Broccoli, Brussels sprouts and cauliflower. You can reduce the unpleasant consequences by lightly stewing the cabbage in a frying pan or in the oven.

          Onions. Quite often, lovers of this vegetable can be recognized by their body aroma. The reason for this is the essential oils that are released during the digestion of food containing onions. In order not to become a source of unpleasant smell, it is better to give up the habit of eating fresh onions.

          Coffee. The drink activates the work of the sweat glands. Moreover, it makes the smell of sweat too strong and very persistent.

          Milk. Very often the sweat smell of dairy lovers has a hint of sauerkraut. And all because of the bacteria in milk.

          Radish and radish . Especially persistent and unpleasant odor appears if they are eaten raw. After heat treatment, the chances of becoming too “aromatic” are drastically reduced.

          Read more: Five Ways to Use Asterisk Balm to Make Your Life Easier.

          Bad breath due to stomach malfunction

          A condition in which bad breath occurs is called halitosis. Its appearance often indicates diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, but may not be associated with them. Halitosis is not an independent pathology; the danger lies in the so-called social disability [1].Bad breath during a conversation or just on exhalation harms the image, has a repulsive effect on others.

          If bad breath comes from the stomach

          The simplest knowledge about halitosis will be useful to everyone who cares about their health and attractiveness.

          The list of causes of bad breath comes down to just three points:

          • vital activity of bacteria;
          • metabolic disorders;
          • intake of food containing volatile substances.

          However, some people rarely have a smell and for a short time, others have it all the time. How can this be explained?

          Many people experience heartburn and an unpleasant taste in their mouth and are worried about the smell in the morning after yesterday’s feast. However, if spicy and odorous food, alcohol and smoking are present in a person’s life most often on holidays, the problem is solved by itself, and there is no reason for concern. All you have to do is brush your teeth, use a mouthwash or chewing gum, and reduce personal contact until the next day.When the body returns to its normal state, metabolism, bacteria and volatiles will no longer provoke odor. This is a temporary phenomenon, and it is not halitosis.

          The factors leading to longer-term problems are summarized in a simple table.

          Not related to diseases of internal organs

          Associated with diseases of the body [2, 3, 4]

          • Poor oral hygiene

          • Incorrect power supply

          • Hard diets (e.g. ketogenic)

          • Bad habits (alcoholism, smoking)

          • The structure of the tongue (cracks, crypts, features of the papillae) [5]

          • Taking medications that cause dry mouth (antidepressants, tranquilizers, hypnotics, antihistamines, decongestants, hypotensives) [5, 6]

          • Intestinal dysbiosis

          • Dental problems

          • ENT diseases

          • Pathology of the endocrine system

          • Oncological diseases

          Considering diseases of the gastrointestinal tract as the cause of halitosis, it is necessary to bear in mind the connections between the parts of the digestive system.

          It all starts with the intestines. Normally, it is inhabited by various microorganisms that make up its microflora. Violation of its composition leads to a number of pathologies. For example, gastric ulcer, as well as gastritis and gastroduodenitis are caused by the bacteria Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori). Their activity can provoke an unpleasant odor from the stomach.

          Helicobacter pylori is often detected together with one of the main causative agents of periodontitis – the bacteria Prevotella intermedia.Therefore, a visit to the dentist for gastritis is inevitable

          Stomach ulcer causes bad breath, ScienceDaily, November 29, 2008

          Incomplete closure of the sphincter between the esophagus and stomach causes heartburn and sour belching. This phenomenon is called reflux. Gastric juice is highly acidic and can damage the lining of the esophagus, pharynx and oral cavity, as well as the enamel of the teeth, which provokes the multiplication of bacteria and, as a result, an unpleasant odor coming from the esophagus or oral cavity.

          It is important to track any such symptoms in time in order to prevent the development of gastrointestinal tract pathologies and the occurrence of severe complications.

          How is halitosis diagnosed [8]

          Often, a person cannot objectively judge the presence of stomach odor from the mouth. Doubtful people tend to find in themselves various symptoms that do not exist in reality, and halitosis is no exception [9].

          The easiest way to check is to ask your loved ones directly if they smell.If you want to avoid discussing such a delicate topic, you can check to see if dental floss smells a few minutes after brushing your teeth. Another option is to evaluate the smell of plaque removed from the back of the tongue with a teaspoon or napkin (also not immediately, but after a short period of time). You can lick your wrist and sniff it when the saliva dries up. However, the test result may be affected by a recent intake of spicy food, onions and garlic, alcohol.

          Laboratory methods for diagnosing bad breath from the stomach instruct the patient to refrain from certain foods and drinks, as well as from smoking, the day before the procedure.The doctor can determine the presence of an odor using his own senses or a special device – a halimeter.

          Interestingly, the test for the presence of H. pylori in the body is also respiratory. When infected with these bacteria, urease is produced, an enzyme that quickly breaks down urea. The patient needs to drink a composition containing urea, which is enriched with a carbon isotope, and then exhale into an airtight container. The resulting sample is sent for analysis. The presence and concentration of bacteria in the stomach is determined by the content of the carbon isotope in the exhaled air.

          How to get rid of bad breath due to stomach problems

          First of all, it is necessary to identify and cure the underlying disease. Chewing gum, lozenges, pills, sprays, and other breath fresheners may be temporary solutions during treatment. The selection of drugs and their regimen is a doctor’s business, self-medication can lead to dysbiosis and antibiotic resistance [10, 11]. Thus, you can provoke new problems, and you cannot get rid of the smell.Concomitant pathologies, lifestyle, nutrition must also be taken under control. Only then will the treatment of stomach disease and bad breath be successful.

          If stomach bad breath occurs in a child , doctors advise focusing on hygiene issues, since antibiotics put too much stress on the child’s body. It is necessary to instill in babies good habits that prevent infection and the development of a bacterial infection. In addition to brushing your teeth and tongue, these include regular hand washing [12].

          What measures to prevent halitosis should be taken

          A visit to the dentist at least twice a year and careful oral hygiene is a good prevention of halitosis. It is important to know that you should not only clean your teeth and dentures. Plaque on the tongue is an environment in which bacteria readily multiply, therefore it is necessary to get rid of it. To do this, you can use the Colgate® 360 ° toothbrush, which has a special scraper on the back. To suppress bacterial growth throughout the day, it is helpful to use an antibacterial mouthwash such as Colgate® Total.

          List of sources

          [1] Suyunova M. Kh. Everything about halitosis: diagnosis, treatment and prevention (review article). Bulletin of the Council of Young Scientists and Specialists of the Chelyabinsk Region No. 4 (15), V.1. // https://cyberleninka.ru/article/n/vsyo-o-galitoze-diagnostika-lechenie-i-profilaktika-obzornaya-statya/viewer

          [2] Disease prevention. Halitosis (halitosis). FBUZ “Center for Hygienic Education of the Population” Rospotrebnadzor // http: // cgon.rospotrebnadzor.ru/content/63/2103/

          [3] Patients: what you need to know about intestinal dysbiosis. News of the RCH them. Semashko // http://rkbsemashko.ru/news/main/977/

          [4] Symptoms of stomach problems. What is bad breath talking about? Arguments and facts, 20.03.2012 // https://aif.ru/health/life/31949

          [5] Galonsky V. G., Tarasova N. V., Shushakova A. A., Bril E. A., Tumshevits V. O. Halitosis: modern concepts of etiology and pathogenesis. Siberian Medical Review, 2011.// https://cyberleninka.ru/article/n/galitoz-sovremennye-predstavleniya-ob-etiologii-i-patogeneze-soobschenie-i

          [6] Nechaenko E. My mouth is dry. We fight xerostomia. Arguments and Facts, 06.06.2017 // https://aif.ru/health/life/vo_rtu_peresohlo_boremsya_s_kserostomiey

          [7] Stomach Ulcer Bug Causes Bad Breath, ScienceDaily, November 29, 2008 // https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2008/11/081123222846.htm

          [8] Velivetskaya T. A. Ignatiev A.C. C-urease breath test based on precision isotope mass spectrometry. Electronic journal “Investigated in Russia” 1485 // https://cyberleninka.ru/article/n/13s-ureaznyy-dyhatelnyy-test-na-baze-pretsizionnoy-izotopnoy-mass-spektrometrii/viewer

          [9] Plotnikova E. Yu., Seledtsov A. M., Shamrai M. A., Talitskaya E. A., Borshch M. V., Krasnov O. A. Psychosomatic aspects in gastroenterology. Medical scientific and practical portal “Attending physician”, 27.12.2012 // https: //www.lvrach.ru / 2012/10/15435565/

          [10] San Francisco Health Plan (SFHP) Patient Guidelines // http://www.sfhp.org/files/member_materials/health_education/fact_sheets/antibiotics_r2_EN.pdf

          [11] World Antibiotic Awareness Week. WHO materials // https://www.who.int/campaigns/world-antibiotic-awareness-week/2017/posters/ru/

          [12] Interview with “Rossiyskaya Gazeta” of the chief gastroenterologist of Moscow Dmitry Bordin, 11/16/2017 // https: // mosgorzdrav.ru / ru-RU / news / default / card / 1570.html

          How to eliminate an unpleasant odor from a cat, why cats smell bad

          The cats are very clean. They hunt from an ambush, they hardly sweat, they lick themselves thoroughly so that the victim does not feel their presence. Healthy animals do not smell, and if an unpleasant odor appears from a cat, you need to check whether she is healthy, whether you are taking proper care of her. Change the litter in the litter box regularly, rinse the cat bowl after each feed, and wash it with baking soda every 2-3 days.

          To understand why your cat smells bad, identify the source of the odor:

          • mouth;
          • leather and wool;
          • ears.

          Bad breath

          Small carnivores in nature feed on meat. Their saliva contained the antibiotic lysozyme, which inhibits the growth of dangerous bacteria. In pets, saliva changes in composition and contains less lysozyme. Add vegetables and other fiber foods to your diet.Watch out for oral hygiene: use special dental sticks, if you notice tartar – contact your veterinarian to remove it. Treatment also requires stomatitis, gingivitis, periodontal disease.

          An unpleasant odor from a cat, bad breath is also felt in diseases of the stomach, genitourinary system. It is necessary to take tests and treat the animal. The veterinarian will prescribe medications and advise on medicated feeds for urolithiasis, for pets with a sensitive stomach.

          Leather and wool

          If the cat’s fur stinks, check the cleanliness of his litter box and bed.Bathe your pet with cat shampoo. Shampoos and gels intended for humans or dogs must not be used: the coat may deteriorate.

          If the hygiene procedures do not help, and after bathing you can smell a strong smell from the cat, contact your veterinarian. He will take a skin scraping to check if the pet is sick with demodicosis. In this disease, microscopic mites parasitize the skin. Due to the products of their vital activity, an unpleasant odor appears from the cat.

          In our online store you can buy vitamin complexes to improve the condition of the skin and coat of an animal:

          Another reason why cats stink helminths and other parasites in the stomach, in the liver, in the blood. They are detected in the analysis of feces, urine and blood.

          If the examination does not reveal diseases and parasites, the veterinarian will prescribe fortifying vitamins that will strengthen the immune system, improve metabolism, and vitamins for the skin and coat.

          Ear diseases

          An unpleasant odor from a cat appears with diseases of the ears: inflammatory processes, otitis media, ear mites. Earwax accumulates in the ears, redness, irritation appears, and fluid can accumulate in the auricles. The animal often scratches its ears, worries. Check your ears regularly, clean them with an ear stick dipped in boiled water or hydrogen peroxide. At the first signs of illness, take the animal to your veterinarian. Self-medication can lead to deafness.

          How to eliminate the smell of cat urine?

          Content:

          Every cat owner has probably faced a situation where it was required to immediately eliminate the smell of cat urine. Furry predators relieve themselves in the wrong place for many reasons – age, emotional state, illness, inconvenience, etc.

          The owner needs to clearly understand why this is happening and try to eliminate the provoking factor.So that in the future the cat does not have a desire to go to the toilet in the wrong place, it is worth using products that completely eliminate unpleasant odors.

          Why does the kitten walk past the tray

          Kittens begin to walk in Tray at about three months of age. Until this time, babies relieve their natural need for a diaper. The grown-up pets observe how the mother-cat goes to the toilet, and begin to repeat after her. Over time, a useful skill is developed, and the kitten uses the litter box for its intended purpose.

          But sometimes it happens that the baby stops walking in the tray and starts urinating anywhere.

          Possible reasons:

          1. Moving to a new home. The kitten was torn away from its mother and transported to a completely new place for him with strangers and smells. For the first few days, the pet adapts and experiences, so it is quite normal that he will walk by the litter box. Soon everything will return to normal.

          2. Health problems. This can be signaled by intentional ignoring of the tray. In this case, you need to show the baby to the veterinarian – this behavior may indicate the presence of pathology.

          3. The tray does not fit. Models with high sides can be uncomfortable – the kitten simply cannot get in there.

          4. Poor tray location. As a rule, the owners put it in the bathroom. It must be remembered that the door to the room must always be open, otherwise the animal may get confused and relieve itself in the wrong place.

          5. Wrong choice of filler . It happens that the kitten is not satisfied with the texture of the filler. You can try several different options before choosing the best one. Wood and corn are recommended for kittens – they are safe in case the baby decides to swallow a bite.

          6. Dirty tray. All cats, even the smallest ones, are clean. Therefore, the owners should clean the toilet in a timely manner.

          How to train a kitten to the toilet

          If you took a very small kitten into the house, he may not be litter-trained. In this case, the first toilet for him will be disposable diaper .

          It is quite simple to teach your baby to use it for its intended purpose:

          1. For the first time, limit the space where the kitten will live. For example, give him a separate room.

          2. Place the diapers on the floor. The pet will go to some of them more often. The extra ones will become unnecessary over time.

          3. Babies usually go to the toilet immediately after eating or sleeping. As soon as the kitten wakes up, immediately take it to the diaper. You can massage the tummy – this stimulates the intestines.

          4. Did the kitten start meowing or spinning in place? So he says that he wants to go to the toilet. Move your baby to the designated toilet area.

          After three months, the pet needs a tray. At first, a diaper moistened with kitten urine is placed in it. Once he understands what the tray is for, the diaper can be replaced with a suitable filling. When the skill is fixed, put the “toilet” in the right place.

          During training:

          1. Do not use methods of physical influence – do not hit the baby, do not poke your muzzle into a puddle.

          2.Praise after each successful trip to the toilet – iron, treat with a treat.

          3. Use Cat Training Spray . There is no need to be afraid – their compositions meet the necessary safety requirements.

          Why does an adult cat or cat ignore the tray

          It happens that an adult pet stops going to the litter box, although he knows perfectly well how to use it. This behavior can be caused by:

          1.Pathological conditions. Many diseases (ICD, cystitis, rheumatoid arthritis, neurological disorders) are accompanied by unpleasant sensations when going to the tray. The cat develops a toilet-pain association. In an effort to avoid this, the animal may stop using the usual place. To establish an accurate diagnosis, a veterinarian consultation is required.

          2. The natural need to designate the territory. By leaving urine, the cat makes it clear to other males that this space belongs to him.Another reason is to attract individuals of the opposite sex. The only way to deal with this is through a castration procedure.

          3. Hormonal disruption. Diabetes, obesity, autoimmune diseases cause severe discomfort, from which the genitals suffer. As a result, the pet deliberately or unknowingly “misses”.

          4. Stress. Moving, changing owners, strangers in the house or the arrival of a new family member can all cause serious stress in a cat.If your pet’s behavior is alarming, you need to try to eliminate the cause of the change. If the condition persists within a few days, you should contact your veterinarian.

          5. Lack of attention. The loved one feels superfluous and unnecessary. Walking past the litter box is one way to get attention.

          6. Revenge. The cat may be offended by the owner, for example, if it was hit or raised its voice. Henceforth, such situations must be avoided.

          7.The pet doesn’t like litter. If you decide to change the familiar version to a new one, the animal may not appreciate it. Better to go back to the old filler.

          8. Inconvenient tray. The cat can simply outgrow the “children’s” version of the toilet. 9. Another reason is too high sides. An elderly pet becomes uncomfortable to climb into it. You can choose another, more suitable tray model.

          10. Failure to comply with hygiene rules. Cats are squeamish creatures, so they won’t go to a dirty toilet.Try to wash the tray and change the litter in time.

          Important! Use deodorizing powders. Pour some powder into a tray and mix with filler. Such a tool will eliminate the unpleasant odor and extend the life of filler .

          How to stop a cat from shitting in the wrong place

          1. Check your pet’s health. If the reason lies in the disease, timely treatment will help to cope with the problem.

          2. Every day carry out a damp cleaning of the apartment using products that eliminate the smell of urine. Untimely or poor-quality removal of marks can provoke a second trip to the wrong place.

          3. Use sprays that stop the cat from walking past the litter box. The formulations of such solutions are completely safe for pets.

          4. Consider neutering your cat.

          During weaning, do not punish the cat or yell at it – this can cause a persistent aversion to the toilet.

          How to train an adult cat to litter

          If you took an adult cat from the street or from a shelter, problems with his “toilet” may also arise. The pet already has certain habits, so it will take some time to train it to the litter box. However, cats are intelligent animals, so a useful skill will definitely be developed. The key here is patience.

          Our advice:

          1. In the first days in the new house, the pet should be in a separate room – this will greatly facilitate the cleaning process.

          2. Place food and water bowls on one end of the room and the litter tray on the other: the cat will not go to the toilet where it eats.

          3. If you notice that the four-legged friend is rushing about, looking for a secluded place – take it to the tray.

          4. In case of a “miss”, do not scold the cat. Blot the urine with a tissue and place in the tray. Next time, the pet will find the right place by smell. The marked area should be cleaned immediately using odor control products .

          5. Use a toilet training spray to enhance the effect.

          Is it possible to get rid of the smell of urine using folk remedies

          To get rid of the unpleasant odor, cat owners often resort to folk recipes. Citrus fruits, soda, bleach, perfume and even spices are used. However, the use of such funds is not recommended for a number of reasons:

          1. The smell almost always remains.It will seem to a person that he is completely eliminated, but the sensitive cat’s sense of smell is able to catch the slightest hint of a familiar scent.

          2. Corrosive solutions, even diluted with water, can damage upholstery or carpet pile.

          3. Some substances are dangerous to four-legged friends. Incorrect observance of proportions or their disregard can cause chemical burns or poisoning with poisonous substances.

          Means for eliminating the smell of cat urine

          Such products quickly and effectively fight against unpleasant odors, removing even unpleasant odors that have stuck in furniture or a tray.Natural formulations are completely safe for both humans and animals.

          Manufacturers take into account that the products can be used on different surfaces, therefore they do not use substances that can damage the integrity of upholstered furniture or flooring.

          Produced in the form:

          Unlike folk remedies that “scare away” cats with a strong perfume, specialized remedies act on the very source of the odor – they destroy the proteins contained in the urine.

          Important! Before using the product, carefully read the instructions for use. Keep them out of the reach of children.

          Conclusions

          1. Cats at any age can go to the toilet in the wrong place for various reasons. The owner’s task is to understand them and try to eliminate them.

          2. While training your pet to the litter box, do not use physical punishment, do not raise your voice.

          3. It is not recommended to use folk recipes to eliminate the smell of cat urine. They are not only ineffective, but can also harm both furniture and the health of the pet.

          4. Special products contain safe ingredients and completely remove unpleasant odors.

          We also recommend

          How to deal with stool disorders in an infant

          Although it is impossible to understand all the disorders of the gastrointestinal tract of babies without the help of a specialist, I will try to tell you a little about them and about which specialists should be consulted and what examinations are advisable to do for constipation and diarrhea in newborns and infants.

          About the norm and deviations

          A baby receiving breast milk has a stool frequency of up to 6-7 times a day. In this case, the stool should be yellow, mushy, homogeneous. Bottle-fed stools are usually less frequent and may have a brownish tinge. Stool less than 1-2 times a day, especially if it is accompanied by discomfort in the child, is considered constipation in infancy.

          All the numerous causes of stool disorders can be divided into several groups.

          1. Disorders of digestion and absorption of food components. The absorption of both macronutrients (these are the main components of food – carbohydrates, proteins, fats) and micronutrients (vitamins, microelements, etc.) may be impaired. At the same time, the child does not just receive less of some food component and does not gain weight well, but undigested residues affect the nature of the stool and intestinal motility, causing unpleasant sensations in the child. Undigested food components serve as a breeding ground for bacteria, among which there may be pathogenic ones.
          2. Disorders in the biocenosis (that is, in the number and spectrum of bacteria) of the intestine. This includes both intestinal infections and hidden processes associated with an excess of any conditionally pathogenic or, conversely, a lack of beneficial bacteria in the intestine. It should be noted that disturbances in the intestinal biocenosis, or dysbacteriosis, as they are often called, are never primary. They, as a rule, arise as a result of taking medications, past infections, feeding disorders.
          3. Intestinal motility disorders. The sequential movement of the food bolus along the gastrointestinal tract is regulated by very complex mechanisms, for which the central nervous system, the autonomic nervous system, and the intestinal’s own nervous and endocrine systems are responsible. In newborns, the mechanisms of interaction between these regulatory centers and the intestine are not yet fully formed, and disorders of intestinal motility are quite common in them.

          Children affected during the perinatal period (that is, in the last trimester of pregnancy, during childbirth and in the first month of life) from hypoxia, infection, etc.may later be prone to various motor disorders. Breast milk contains hormonal substances that regulate intestinal motility in a child, as well as substances that stimulate the restoration of cells in the intestinal mucosa; but artificial mixtures do not possess such properties.

          Since all of these factors are closely related to each other, in each particular child, we, as a rule, see a combination of deviations in the biocenosis, impaired digestion and intestinal motility, but for proper treatment it is very important to identify the main cause.Let’s take a closer look at each group of reasons.

          Lactase deficiency

          Speaking about disorders of digestion and absorption, I would like first of all to talk about lactose intolerance. Lactose is milk sugar, which makes up about 99% of all carbohydrates in any milk, including female milk. Lactose is broken down by the enzyme lactase, which is on the surface of the cells of the small intestine, into glucose and galactose, and then absorbed. As the main source of glucose, lactose is necessary for the baby as the main supplier of energy, and small amounts of galactose are necessary for the formation of the central nervous system and the retina of the eye.An infant receives so much lactose that even healthy babies up to three months of age do not break it down completely. The unbroken lactose enters the large intestine. In adults, this does not happen, but for infants it is necessary. There it becomes a breeding ground for beneficial lactic acid bacteria (bifidobacteria, lactobacilli, lactose-positive E.coli). These bacteria break down lactose into short-chain fatty acids (hence the sour stool in infants), gas and water.These acids are important for the regulation of intestinal motility (contractions), the absorption of salts and water; also putrefactive bacteria grow poorly in an acidic environment. Therefore, if you immediately deprive the child of lactose (for example, feed him only with soy mixtures), there will be no nutrition for beneficial bacteria, the acidity of the intestinal contents will decrease, and pathogenic microbes will colonize the intestines.

          However, if the activity of the cleaving enzyme is reduced, there is too much lactose not digested in the small intestine, and there are not enough bacteria fermenting it, then the undigested lactose “pulls” water into the intestinal cavity due to an increase in osmotic pressure, and the child develops diarrhea.The breakdown of lactose can be impaired both due to the low activity of the enzyme of a congenital nature, and in any infectious or allergic process that affects the intestinal wall; in this case, the entire cell that produces the enzyme dies.

          Congenital disorders are most common in families where adults have milk intolerance. For many peoples (for example, for 80-100% of the adult population of the Far North, the Mari, for the peoples of North Africa), milk intolerance is practically the norm.This is the so-called “adult-type lactase deficiency.” Among the Russian population, this feature (namely, a feature, since phylogenetically more ancient peoples do not have the habit of consuming milk in adulthood) is about 10%. In such families, the baby is more likely to be born with an initially low enzyme activity.

          Case from practice

          So, recently Svetlana S. approached me with her one and a half month old Denis.Svetlana had enough milk from the first days after giving birth, and she breastfed Denis. He always eagerly began to eat, but after a few minutes he dropped his chest, began to twist his legs and cry. The boy slept badly. At first, every time he woke up, Svetlana tried to feed him, but the baby did not calm down. Denis’s stool was frequent, watery (although Svetlana did not immediately notice this, since the liquid was easily absorbed into the diaper), yellow, with a sour smell. The baby added only 200 g in the first month.Upon detailed questioning, it turned out that the child’s dad, an Azerbaijani by nationality, does not like and does not drink whole milk at all, as it causes him to develop gas. Usually, parents (especially dads) try to hide such symptoms, and they are revealed only with careful questioning. After determining the amount of carbohydrates in the feces, the assumption of lactose intolerance was confirmed, Svetlana began to add a special drug to the milk, and after a few days, the stool returned to normal and Denis began to gain weight well.

          But much more often you have to deal with secondary disorders of lactose digestion – for example, after an intestinal infection.

          Case from practice

          I once consulted a three month old abandoned child. Elizaveta (that was the name of the baby) had been receiving Agu-1 mixture from birth, and in the second month of her life she had an intestinal infection. But after the end of the course of therapy, the stool still remained liquid, with an admixture of mucus and greenery.At the hospital, the girl was analyzed for the content of carbohydrates in the feces, and the indicators were 3 times higher. In this regard, the girl was assigned to eat with soy mixture. The stool became less fluid, but unstable, and pathological impurities persisted. The girl was prescribed biologics containing beneficial bacteria, and two feedings were returned with the usual adapted mixture “Agu-1” containing lactose, against which the stool returned to normal. In this case, the disturbances in lactose digestion were clearly secondary to the disturbance of the biocenosis, and, first of all, it was required to restore the normal biocenosis and provide conditions for the engraftment of bacteria, that is, to give a small amount of lactose.

          Allergy

          I would also like to talk about secondary lactase deficiency that occurs against the background of allergic inflammation in the intestines. When a baby begins to receive a foreign protein too early (most often it is cow’s milk protein or soy protein found in formula for artificial feeding), the first place for this protein to come into contact with the cells of the baby’s body is the intestine. Allergic inflammation develops in the intestines and lactase-producing enterocytes are damaged.In this case, allergic inflammation in the intestines, as a rule, precedes changes in the skin, and outwardly, the child may not show any signs of allergy. In addition to digesting lactose, these children also have impaired absorption of many substances in the intestines and develop diarrhea. Therefore, in a bottle-fed child with diarrhea, it is always necessary to conduct an allergological examination.

          Other reasons

          Children with a deficiency of other enzymes (sucrase, isomaltase), as well as malabsorption of monosaccharides (glucose, fructose) have symptoms similar to lactase deficiency, although these disorders are much less common.The first symptoms of sucrose intolerance appear when ordinary sugar is included in the diet of children (many are trying to sweeten the meals), and fructose intolerance is when honey, juices, etc. are included. Therefore, if you are breastfeeding, try to remember before visiting the doctor whether your baby has diarrhea immediately after starting feeding, or after a change in your diet or the introduction of new foods.

          Required examinations and nutrition

          So, if a child has frequent watery, frothy stools with a sour smell, he may be suspected of intolerance to milk sugar.The simplest and most accessible study in this case is to determine the amount of carbohydrates in the stool. For proper treatment, it is necessary to find out the cause of the intolerance, after consulting a children’s (!) Gastroenterologist and, possibly, an allergist. At the time of the examination (and if the diagnosis is confirmed and for a longer period), the lactose content in the diet should be reduced. If the baby has received breast milk, then there is no need to deprive him of this wonderful product, you just need to express about 1/3 of the volume of one feeding and add the enzyme “Lactase” * (available in capsules) to the expressed milk, and then feed the baby according to his appetite.The dosage of the enzyme is selected individually by the doctor. If the child is artificially or mixed feeding, then the adapted milk formula is replaced with a low-lactose or lactose-free formula (it is also better to consult a doctor about the selection of a therapeutic mixture). It is also not necessary to independently select a therapy that relieves diarrhea in a child, because an excessive decrease in lactose in the diet can lead to constipation.

          Lipase deficiency

          The second group of diseases with impaired digestion and absorption (impaired assimilation of fats) can occur with both diarrhea and constipation.Lipids are digested by the enzyme lipase, which in adults is produced mainly by the pancreas. Sometimes there is a congenital lipase deficiency, but in newborns we are more often faced with the fact that the pancreas is simply not mature enough and lipase synthesis is reduced. This is typical for premature babies, children with intrauterine growth retardation. For these children, nature has created a reliable “safety rope”: breast milk contains lipase, which facilitates the digestion of breast milk lipids.But if a child receives artificial nutrition, then the immaturity of pancreatic lipase may manifest itself clinically. In addition to the enzyme for the digestion of fats, a certain composition of bile is required, which emulsifies fats, breaks them into small globules. Therefore, violations of lipid assimilation can also occur in children with diseases of the liver and biliary tract. For such children, the appearance of not only fatty, but also lighter than usual stools is characteristic.

          Case from practice

          Recently we had a girl in our department who underwent surgery for intestinal obstruction.The obstruction was associated with a slight anomaly in the pancreas. The operation was successful, but after the start of feeding, the girl’s stool was pale yellow, once or twice a day (which is rare for a breastfed baby), left greasy spots on the diaper, “washed” when washed. A deficiency of pancreatic enzymes was suspected and a coprogram was prescribed (a study of feces, revealing the amount and nature of undigested fats, starch, muscle fibers), which showed impaired digestion and absorption of fats.The girl underwent additional examinations and selected enzymatic preparations containing lipase. As a result, the stools became less fat and more frequent, and the girl was discharged home.

          Celiac disease

          Diarrhea with fatty stools is characteristic of another disease – celiac disease. This particular allergic disorder is associated with a reaction to gliadin, a substance found in many cereals. A fatty stool with the smell of “window putty” appears, the stool volume is large.These changes occur, as a rule, some time after the introduction of cereals (semolina, oatmeal and other cereals) into the diet. Children grow poorly, become irritable, and later symptoms similar to rickets join.

          Although the predisposition to this disease is hereditary, in any case, you should not provoke an allergy to gliadin and give the child porridge and bread products earlier than 5 months: often attempts to “feed the porridge” to a poorly gaining weight child turn into a worsening of his condition.

          The list of diseases in which a child has fatty stools, of course, is not limited to the listed conditions, but if your child has such a problem, accompanied by constipation or diarrhea, this may be caused by a violation of lipid digestion.

          Required examinations

          It is important to conduct a scatological study (it is done in any clinic), to check the condition of the liver and pancreas (to do ultrasound, biochemical and immunological examinations).In difficult cases, this is usually done in a hospital, since travel for examinations is a serious burden for a weakened child, and it is better to monitor the effectiveness of treatment in a hospital. A diet, preparations containing pancreatic enzymes and bile acids are selected for children. The doctor will recommend a specific drug to you, since their composition and effectiveness are different and there is no universal drug that would be suitable in all cases.

          Intestinal infections

          The second large group of causes of stool disorders is associated with the bacteria that inhabit the intestines.Intestinal infections are common in infants. Even the most neat and tidy parents cannot always avoid the occurrence of an intestinal infection in an infant. The fact is that the protective functions of the intestines (acidity of gastric juice, local immune factors) in infants are reduced. And some of the pathogens that are not dangerous for adults can cause serious disorders in the baby.

          Prevention

          What should be the main focus for preventing infections? First of all – on the dishes that are used for food.First of all, it must be dry. Some mothers boil bottles for a long time, but then leave some of the moisture in them. Moisture promotes the growth of bacteria.

          Secondly, you should not often pour food from dishes into dishes: the fewer the number of transfusions, the better. That is why a feeding bottle is docked immediately to modern breast pumps.

          Finally, avoid licking pacifiers, spoons, and baby dishes. The germs in your mouth are not always safe for your baby.Disease-causing bacteria are transmitted from person to person, so it is better to simply rinse a pacifier that has fallen on the floor with water (at worst, not even wash it at all!) Than to lick it.

          How to help a child before a doctor comes

          But if your baby nevertheless fell ill with an intestinal infection, you do not need to reproach yourself indefinitely, it is more useful to focus on helping the child. The infection begins, in contrast to digestive disorders, usually suddenly – with abdominal pain (the child cries, twisting legs) and diarrhea.Intestinal infections can be accompanied by a rise in temperature, but not always. Be sure to call the doctor, and before his arrival, try to alleviate the child’s condition with the following measures. A child loses a lot of water and salt with loose stools and may become dehydrated. To prevent this from happening, the child must be drunk with one of the saline solutions available in every pharmacy – oralit or rehydron. The drug enterodesis, in addition to salts, also contains activated carbon, which absorbs toxins from the intestines.Try to have one of these drugs in your home medicine cabinet. Usually, the child does not drink very willingly during this period, but it is necessary to completely reimburse him the volume of fluid that he loses with stool and vomiting (it is advisable to measure this volume). If the child does not drink from a bottle, liquid can be given from a spoon or even from a pipette. Small amounts of liquid do not induce vomiting as much as large ones.

          Why can’t you just drink water? Because a lot of salts are lost with the intestinal contents and their deficiency will be aggravated if you give a liquid without salts.

          Food and Drugs

          In addition to solutions, to replenish fluid, the child can be given adsorbents – drugs that absorb, like a sponge, toxins contained in the intestines. These are drugs – smecta, polyphepan, enterosgel. But keep in mind that these drugs do not kill pathogenic bacteria and are purely symptomatic. In large quantities, they can lead to constipation.

          Should I feed a baby with an intestinal infection? Yes.But the amount of food per day decreases by 1/3 – 2/3 (depending on how much food does not lead to vomiting). If you fed him with breast milk, then let him receive it, and if with a mixture, then fermented milk mixtures are preferable in such situations. Feed often, but in small portions. Each meal can be supplemented with ¼ tablets of the enzyme preparation mezim-forte. Here are, perhaps, all the measures that can be taken before the arrival of the doctor. Never prescribe antibiotics to an infant on your own! Some of them, for example, chloramphenicol, used for some intestinal infections in adults, are contraindicated in newborns.Great care should be taken when using drugs such as imodium and other symptomatic agents in infancy. Consult your doctor!

          Dysbacteriosis

          Other disorders of the intestinal biocenosis occur less noticeably and may not appear at all (this is called compensated intestinal dysbiosis) or lead to constipation, frequent stools, the presence of mucus, greens and other impurities in the stool (subcompensated or decompensated dysbiosis).Dysbiosis occurs as a result of the use of antibiotics, disorders of digestion and absorption, disorders of the intestinal immune system. There are no absolute norms that are the same for everyone in the number and composition of bacteria in the colon. The analysis of feces for dysbiosis used in most institutions reflects only the state of the microflora of the cavity of the lower intestine. It does not say anything about what bacteria live on the intestinal wall (although this is much more important), whether there is a spread of bacteria in the cavity of the small intestine (which should not be normal).

          In the practice of US doctors, instead of the term “dysbiosis”, the term “bacterial overgrowth” is often used. Since, without the use of invasive methods of examination, we can only indirectly judge what is the composition of the intestinal microflora, treatment requires only conditions accompanied by clinical manifestations. In other words, if the child has normal, regular bowel movements and does not have a stomach ache, then you should not give him bacterial preparations just because his analysis differs from the average norm.

          Treatment

          If dysbiosis does manifest itself, it is advisable to find out its root cause. Maybe the baby was late to breastfeed? Or was he receiving antibiotics? Or is it lacking in some kind of digestive enzyme? Maybe he has a food allergy? After answering these and other questions, the question of correcting the intestinal biocenosis is being resolved. Now doctors are trying to use drugs that purposefully destroy any specific type of pathogenic bacteria and do not affect beneficial microorganisms.Such drugs include, for example, phages – viruses that destroy bacteria. There are phages against staphylococcus, proteus, Escherichia coli.

          The second approach is based on competition between beneficial and pathogenic bacteria. There are drugs that create conditions for the reproduction of lactic acid bacteria and prevent the reproduction of pathogenic ones. For example, the drug hilak-forte is a complex of substances similar to those normally obtained during the fermentation of lactose by bifidobacteria.It acidifies the contents of the intestines and mimics the enzymatic processes that a healthy newborn has. The laxative drug duphalac (lactulose) has a similar modulating effect.

          The third approach is based on enhancing local immunity – for example, with the help of a KIP preparation. Finally, there are numerous preparations of beneficial bacteria – both of one type and in combination. When using them, one should not forget that even these seemingly harmless drugs are not well tolerated by all children.And in order to obtain a positive effect, it is necessary to provide conditions for the engraftment of these bacteria. A specialist will tell you how to do this.

          Bowel problems

          All the described conditions are most often accompanied by disorders of intestinal motility – an increase or decrease in the motor activity of the gastrointestinal tract. But motor disorders can also be an independent pathology. Of all the disorders of intestinal motility, mothers are most worried about constipation.Not all constipation has the same cause. But one part of the reasons leads to insufficient contractile activity of the intestine (such constipation is called atonic), and others – to an increase in this activity (such constipation is called spastic). Naturally, they are treated in different ways. With spastic constipation, the stool is quite hard and usually looks like “sheep feces.” The child may experience pain during a bowel movement. With atonic constipation, the stool is very rare, often accompanied by bloating, while cleansing the intestines, the volume of feces is large.If your child has stools 1-2 times a day or less in the first 3 months of life, then you should consult a doctor. Diseases such as rickets and hypothyroidism can cause constipation as one of the manifestations.

          Treatment

          Should an enema be done? You should not abuse enemas, since frequent enemas inhibit the urge to defecate and disrupt the normal formation of the reflex. But you can do it once. The volume of an enema for such a child is 30-40 ml (the smallest enema, and incomplete).It is very important to remember that the enema cannot be done with warm water! The water should be at room temperature. In warm water, toxic substances accumulated in the intestines during constipation quickly dissolve and are easily absorbed into the bloodstream. If it seems to you that there has not been a complete cleansing of the intestines, do not rush, usually after the first portion there is an independent bowel movement. Large (or many small) enemas should be performed by a doctor even in a hospital, as this can cause serious complications. Well helps with atonic constipation massage of the anterior abdominal wall clockwise, spreading on the stomach, slight tactile irritation of the anus.It is not recommended to prescribe laxatives to children on their own, even the safest laxative, duphalac (its action, as it were, modulates lactase deficiency, which was described above), can lead to increased gas production and cause discomfort in the child.

          Notes for parents

          So, be sure to see your doctor if:

          • in a child, when breastfeeding, stool more than 7 times a day, and when feeding with mixtures – more than 4-5 times;
          • stool has a specific unpleasant odor or an admixture of mucus, greenery, blood, if it is watery or greasy;
          • stool less often 1-2 times a day;
          • during bowel movements, the child cries, twists his legs;

          Well, in general, contact us, even if everything is fine with you! We will help you raise a healthy baby

          _________

          * Mention of any drugs in this article is not an advertisement, is not sponsored by any companies, but is based only on personal clinical experience and the author’s own scientific works.

          Diagnostics and treatment of all stool disorders in the medical center on Yauza

          11/01/2021

          The article was checked by a hepatologist, gastroenterologist Fedel S. , is for general informational purposes, does not replace the consultation of a specialist.
          Consultation of a physician is required for recommendations on diagnosis and treatment.

          At the Yauza Clinical Hospital, experienced gastroenterologists will conduct an examination, identify the causes and prescribe treatment for any stool disorders (semi-liquid, mushy, loose stools).The clinic has all the possibilities for diagnosing diseases of the digestive tract (endoscopy of the stomach, duodenum, large intestine, rectum with biopsy, special laboratory tests, examination of the gastrointestinal tract using computed tomography and ultrasound).

          Normally, feces consist of 30% water and 70% dry residue – processed food lump, dead cells of the intestinal wall and epithelium. In case of violation of the processing and absorption of food, its evacuation, imbalance of microflora, the nature of the stool changes.The cause of the appearance of semi-liquid, mushy feces can be various diseases of the gastrointestinal tract (GIT), as well as diseases that are not directly related to intestinal damage. In the Clinical Hospital on Yauza, you can undergo an examination of the whole body as a whole and establish the true causes of loose stools.

          Causes of semi-liquid stool

          • intestinal infections (foodborne toxicoinfection, dysbiosis)
          • inflammatory diseases of the digestive system (hepatitis, pancreatitis, cholecystitis, gallstone disease, enterocolitis, Crohn’s disease)
          • irritable bowel syndrome – increased passage of the food bolus through the intestinal tube
          • allergic reaction to medicines or food
          • enzyme deficiency (lack of lactase for milk digestion)
          • stress and physical strain
          • consumption of raw water and food unusual for the body

          Do not look for and eliminate the cause on your own – the disease will progress.It is better to go straight to an experienced gastroenterologist and get professional medical attention. In our clinic you will find a delicate attitude, an individual and comprehensive approach, convenience and comfort, which contributes to effective examination and treatment.

          Diagnostic steps

          The search for the causes of loose stools begins with the consultation of a specialist doctor. The gastroenterologist will conduct a detailed survey and physical research in order to determine the nature of the diet, constitutional features, developmental characteristics of disorders, psychogenic factors that led to the appearance of the problem.

          The patient will undergo laboratory examination with analysis of blood, urine, feces (for microbial contamination of the gastrointestinal tract, helminthic invasions, biochemical examination of feces), if necessary, an extensive range of tests for allergens. New endoscopic equipment with the possibility of gastroduodenoscopy, colonoscopy, sigmoidoscopy and taking a biopsy, including under anesthesia, ultrasound screening, computed tomography on a modern tomograph with the ability to conduct a virtual colonoscopy – the advantages of diagnostics at the Clinical Hospital on Yauza.

          In addition, if necessary, you will be consulted by a surgeon, allergist, neurologist, psychotherapist and other doctors of a narrow profile – the hospital employs specialists from more than 35 areas of medicine.

          Treatment

          Semi-liquid stool associated with malnutrition does not require treatment – it is enough to choose a complete diet. If semi-liquid stool occurs as a result of a certain disease, treatment of the underlying disease and maintenance of the intestine with the help of special drugs that normalize the digestion and absorption of nutrients (enzyme therapy), passage (motilium, loperamide) and bacterial composition (linex, bifiform) are required.

          The specialists of the Clinical Hospital on Yauza will select an individual treatment taking into account all the modern possibilities of medicine, the severity of the disease and the needs of the patient.

          You can look at prices for services in the price list or check the phone number indicated on the website.

          Literature:

          1. Attaluri A., Donahoe R., Valestin J. Randomized clinical trial: dried plums (prunes) vs. psyllium for constipation // Aliment Pharmacol Ther. 2011.

          2. Shapovalova M.M., Budnevsky A.V., Kravchenko A.Ya., Drobysheva E.S., Ovsyannikov E.S. Pathogenesis, modern aspects of prevention and treatment of antibiotic-associated diarrhea // Archives of Internal Medicine. 2018.

          90,000 “It’s been 2 months since I got sick, and everything seems to be fine… “

          It’s been two months since I got sick. And everything seemed to be fine, there was no shortness of breath, no coughing, the temperature was normal. Before leaving after sick leave, I took a PCR test, it is negative. After the illness, the sense of smell returned. But it didn’t come back the way it was before. In general, I was very glad that COVID-19 was over, but not forever, since many doctors claim that antibodies disappear after 3-6 months after a person has been ill, so I still follow the basic rules: social distance, masks in public places, especially in buses and shops.Yes, in our city they have tightened control over the observance of the mask regime, but I cannot look at those people who don the mask in the wrong way, every third visitor to the store has a mask in the form of a “chin diaper” – this is how the “anti-mask” is ridiculed in one from the famous cartoon series South Park. The people relaxed, they don’t put on a mask in order to protect others and not get infected themselves, but in order not to get a fine.

          Many of those who have had a mild illness say: “Hah, this coronavirus, it’s not scary at all! I’ve been ill, well, I coughed for a week, and that’s it! “But apparently these people did not encounter what I faced a month and a half after recovery. Perhaps you are faced with the same consequences as me, trying to “google” information on the Internet, which is very small, or maybe you even managed to go to the doctor who does not know what to do about it.

          After recovery, my sense of smell and taste returned to me, I felt the same smell and taste of food as before the illness. Sometimes before work I buy a cheburek or a pie to eat during lunch.And now, after about a month and a half, I buy a cheburek. During the lunch break, he warmed up the soup, which he brought from home, and the same cheburek purchased in the stall, and proceeded to the meal. The moment I took a bite of the pastry, I felt a very strange smell. I was scared that the cheburek was spoiled. I threw it in the trash and thought: “What a shame, I always bought it, it was delicious, they slipped it rotten here! I won’t buy anything else there! ”

          It took 5-6 days and I already forgot about that case.At lunchtime, we go to lunch with a colleague in the cafeteria, which is located near our work. The menu had something from meat, in my opinion, it was a barbecue. But I could smell “that” awful smell. I asked a colleague: “Do you also feel this stench?”, To which he replied: “Why the stench? It smells good of meat. ” I realized that something was wrong with me: “Did I get sick again? After all, not even two months have passed! Have all the antibodies gone? How so?!”

          Another 2-4 days passed and the “same” smell was felt to me everywhere! It is difficult to describe it, there is no such smell in nature – it is something, like, the smell of rotten meat mixed with the smells of onions and acetone.But okay, the smell, I started to feel an unpleasant aftertaste on many products. It was terrible. I started to panic, went to the Internet and entered the query “odor distortion, what happened”! The only thing that I have learned is the scientific name for the condition when odors are distorted – parosmia. I entered another query “post-COVID-19 parosmia” and also “post-COVID-19 distorted sense of smell.”

          There were very few articles on the internet. It was reported that patients after COVID-19 come to doctors with a distorted sense of smell and altered tastes.Most of the articles wrote that doctors did not know “what to do about it.” Some scientists argue that the virus attacked the nervous system, thereby causing a malfunction in the olfactory nerve, and everything will recover after some time. In one of the articles, I found that a girl who had such post-coccygeal symptoms created the Smells / Tastes After COVID-19 Telegram channel. I found him, there were 17 thousand participants in the telegram channel, and there were a lot of messages. Everyone complained about the presence of a third-party smell, but each has its own.I calmed down a little – “I’m not the only one!”

          People described their sense of smell: someone everywhere smells smoke, someone – the smell of dead onions, someone thinks that everything smells like acetone, etc. Everyone has parosmia after COVID-19! Everyone is trying to figure out what you can eat and not experience the “same” unpleasant smell. For most, meat (any, be it chicken or beef) causes a disgusting smell, many complain that they cannot eat eggs, tangerines and oranges, that the smells of toothpaste, baked goods, cooked sausages are distorted, but mostly protein foods smell unpleasant.

          For me personally, initially, everything that contained even a little meat stank. Later, the stench began to come from the toothpaste, and an unpleasant aftertaste was a plus. Also, the smell of cigarettes and smoke has the “same” smell. And the most offensive thing is that tangerines and oranges – yes, yes! They also stink unbearably! And on the nose, New Year, where is without tangerines ?! At first, their taste was also disgusting.

          Recently I decided to try a beef burger in one of the establishments. And, lo and behold! I smelled the normal beef smell and happily ate the burger, but I still can’t eat some meat products…

          To restore my sense of smell, I began another course of multivitamins, rinse my nose with sea water, use vasoconstrictors for nasal congestion, which periodically occurs. Now, at least, the tangerine pulp itself has stopped stinking and the taste has disappeared, but the peel stinks unbearably, to this day … Some meat dishes have ceased to emit an unpleasant smell. I tried to eat seafood, they don’t stink! The pizza with smoked chicken and mushrooms also tastes good and odorless.But sausages or sausages are impossible to eat.

          I don’t know if my odor distortion goes away after coronavirus or not, but I try to believe in the best.

          If you have any questions, you can ask them in the comments. I will try to answer everyone. If you are an anti-masker / covid-dissident – this article will not help you, you are in the wrong place – do not litter comments, do not bother helping people who are faced with this ailment.

          Happy new year 2021 to everyone! I wish everyone who is sick a speedy recovery, and those who are not sick will never face this terrible virus! We hope that in 2021 we will get rid of COVID-19 once and for all! As you can see, there are consequences even after recovery.