Q. What does Steatorrhea smell like?

Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.

Answered by Secondmedic Expert

Steatorrhea, also known as fatty stools, can have a foul odor due to the presence of high levels of lipids in stool. The smell may range from being mild and detectable only at close range to a strong and unpleasant smell that dominates the air around it.

The odor is usually described as malodorous, putrid or “fishy” in nature. It can be similar to that of spoiled food or decaying matter with hints of sulfur and other chemicals present in very large amounts in the stool sample. The presence of bacteria digesting these fats will further increase the bad odor produced by steatorrhea stools.

Steatorrhea is often seen when someone has malabsorption issues such as celiac disease or cystic fibrosis where they are not able to digest or absorb certain nutrients properly leading to undigested lipids (fatty substances) being excreted through the feces - thus leading to fatty stools with a distinct smell associated with them. Additionally steatorrhea could be caused by drinking too much alcohol which leads to impaired fat digestion as well resulting in smelly fatty stools passed out through bowel movements. Medications like antibiotics may also lead to an increased population of bacteria which break down fats into its component molecules producing an even more intense scent than normal for people suffering from steatorrhea .

Other causes like pancreatic insufficiency , hookworms , tapeworms , parasites etc all promote excess lipid build up on your digestive system resulting in yellow/grayish oily looking oozing steatorrhoea type feces with an accompanying pungent aroma . As mentioned before this fishy-smelling waste might just simply dominate any place it reaches so if you're ever stuck sharing space with anyone who seems keen on passing these kinds gastrointestinal nuisances - best advice would be good old courtesy asking politely whether he/she wouldn't mind using their own bathroom instead !

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Q. Hello Doctor, from past 3 weeks I have too much dandruff problem and it cause hair loss will you suggest any best solution for this?

Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.

Answered by Secondmedic Expert

Dealing with excessive dandruff leading to hair loss can be frustrating, but there are effective ways to address this issue. Here's what you can do:

1. Switch to a Gentle Shampoo: Opt for shampoos specifically designed for dandruff, containing ingredients like ketoconazole, zinc pyrithione, coal tar, or selenium sulfide. Use these shampoos regularly to reduce dandruff buildup.

2. Scalp Massage: Gently massage your scalp while shampooing to help remove flakes and improve blood circulation, which can promote healthier hair growth.

3. Avoid Hot Water: Wash your hair with lukewarm water instead of hot water, as hot water can dry out your scalp and worsen dandruff.

4. Balanced Diet: Ensure you're eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals essential for healthy hair and scalp, such as omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, and B vitamins.

5. Manage Stress: Stress can exacerbate dandruff problems. Practice stress-relief techniques like meditation, yoga, or regular exercise to help manage stress levels.

6. Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse: Consider using diluted apple cider vinegar as a rinse after shampooing. It can help restore the scalp's pH balance and reduce dandruff.

7. Consult a Dermatologist: If the issue persists despite trying home remedies or over-the-counter solutions, seek advice from a dermatologist. They can provide a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific scalp condition.

Remember, consistency is key when dealing with dandruff. Give these remedies some time to work, as immediate results might not always occur. It's essential to find what works best for your scalp, so don't get discouraged if you don't see immediate improvements.

Taking care of your scalp health not only addresses dandruff but also aids in reducing hair loss associated with this issue. Feel free to incorporate these tips into your routine and observe how your scalp responds. If the problem persists or worsens, seeking professional guidance is always recommended.

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