Life changes can lead to better health

Dear Dr. Gott: I was diagnosed with gastroesophageal reflux disease and took Prilosec and many other medications for the symptoms for three years. My internist referred me to a surgeon, and surgery was recommended.

From reading your column, I decided to be proactive. I made several lifestyle changes, stopped drinking all alcohol, lost 20 pounds, quit wearing tight-fitting clothing around my waist and increased my exercise. I also started eating smaller meals.

My symptoms disappeared within six weeks, and I have been symptom-free for two years, without surgery. I no longer require the use of antacids or other meds for GERD.

Dear Reader: Your experience is not unique. You made a series of correct decisions and were able to avoid surgery.

I believe that if more people took responsibility for their health, they would require fewer pills and visits to the doctor. Good luck. Thanks for writing.

To give you related information, I am sending you a copy of my health report “Hiatal Hernia.” Other readers who would like a copy should send a long, self-addressed, stamped envelope and $2 to Newsletter, P.O. Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092. Be sure to mention the title.

Dear Dr. Gott: I have been having bowel problems.

When I have to move my bowels, I sometimes can’t get to the bathroom in time. I cannot hold it back. It just comes out of me and I make a mess.

It doesn’t happen all the time. I once went to a restaurant and had salad. I left the restaurant, got in my car and, halfway down the highway, I had to go, but there were no restrooms or service stations to stop at.

It just came out of me all over my clothes. So I had to go home. I have tracked what I eat, and it is not one certain thing.

I asked my doctor, and he sent me to get a colonoscopy, but everything was A-OK. He told me I should stay close to a bathroom, and that’s it.

What could it be, and how can I stop it? When this happens, I am more than embarrassed. What can I do? Please help if you can.

I am a 66-year-old female.

Dear Reader: Fecal incontinence is one of the most distressing events imaginable. It is often caused by malfunctioning nerves and muscles in the lower rectum.

I urge you to ask your doctor for a referral to a colorectal surgeon. After examining and testing you, he may advise surgery or other less invasive treatments. You can be helped.

To give you related information, I am sending you a copy of my health report “Constipation and Diarrhea.” Other readers who would like a copy should send a long, self-addressed, stamped envelope and $2 to Newsletter, P.O. Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092. Be sure to mention the title.