HAFE

File this under - you learn something new every day.

Last night my buddy Jim called. Him and a couple of co-workers went out to Colorado for some skiing this week. A few days into their trip - Jim and the rest of the guys all came down with a bad case of HAFE

Never heard of HAFE? Well neither did I. It seems that HAFE (High-altitude flatus expulsion) is a real - though not dangerous side effect for some who travel to high altitudes.

High-altitude flatus expulsion (HAFE) is the spontaneous and unwelcome passage of increased quantities of rectal gas noted at high altitude. It may become an embarrassment but is of no true medical concern. Avoid foods such as chili and beans that are known to induce flatulence at low altitudes, and show consideration for other members of the party in sleeping arrangements. If stricken, a traveler may benefit from chewable tablets or simethicone (Mylicon 80 milligrams) or simethicone 80 milligrams with activated charcoal 250 milligrams (Flatulex tablets) once or twice a day. Charcoal Plus is another simethicone-activated charcoal preparation.

Jim and his buddies developed HAFE after a few days of skiing and drinking microbrew beer. Their HAFE damn near cleared out a pool room from what I hear.