odor

Why do I have a fecal body odor? And why  can't I smell if anyone has passed gas? I've taken several enemas, and detox intestinal cleansers. I take good showers everyday with deodorant soap, brush my teeth and tongue after every meal.  I'm not even  sure where the smell is coming from.  Please help.

[Kevin Pho, MD]

Hello - thanks for asking your question.

Please understand my limitations over the internet as I have neither met nor examined you. This information is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation.

There are several causes of fecal body odor.  The most common cause is constipation.  When a person is constipated the walls of the colon are generally packed or lined with accumulated feces from extended periods of intestinal overloading.  When wastes from the blood arrive at the inner wall of the colon, the hardened feces prevent their passage through this wall. Since blood circulates through every organ in body, toxins in the blood contaminate the entire body.  However, you have already tried enemas without success.

Other causes may be anatomic considerations.  Examples include rectal prolapse, weakness of the anal sphincter or decreased rectal compliance.  

A flexible sigmoidoscopy can be considered to inspect the distal colon and anus.  Other tests you may want to discuss with your personal physician include an endorectal ultrasound to evaluate for structural abnormalities or anorectal manometry to evaluate for anal sphincter dysfunction.  

Some studies have shown that intake of vitamin K can control fecal body odor - I would discuss this option with your personal physician.

As to why you can't smell - there are many causes for this (anosmia).  This can include a respiratory infection, rheumatological disease (i.e. Sjorgen's Syndrome), medications (i.e. beta-blockers, ace-inhibitors), or head trauma.  You may want to be evaluated by an ENT specialist.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Thanks,
Kevin, M.D.

[Chifan]

Would the probiotic primadophilis neutralize fecal body odor for good?