DEAR DR. GOTT: Recently, my grandfather had a heart attack. It was unexpected because he's one of the healthiest men anyone could ever encounter. He went through bypass surgery, and the doctor claims that he has organs as healthy as a young man's. After his surgery, however, it's like I don't even know who he is. He's not the way he used to be. My grandfather used to walk all the time, drink coffee in the morning and eat ice cream at night, crack jokes relentlessly and was curious. While shopping, he wouldn't wait for his companions; he'd head off to look at what interested him. Since the surgery, he barely eats anything, won't touch ice cream and won't joke or wander off without someone being able to find him. It's rare that he smiles anymore, and he doesn't make much eye contact during a conversation.

My grandma says he's really depressed, and I see it, too. It's not expected he'd admit it, but it's painful to him as well as to his loved ones to see this new person he's become. It seems as if he doesn't have any energy. Is there a way to lift his spirits and get him out of this slump? Please help.

DEAR READER> Although your grandfather's change in behaviour and viewpoint seem to reflect depression, I believe that a thorough medical evaluation is necessary. For example, could he have had a stroke during or after surgery? Is he beginning to suffer some type of dementia? Is there an undiagnosed health problem?

I urge you to share your concerns with his physician. Don't procrastinate. This is serious. If, in fact, I am wrong, your grandfather will need psychiatric attention and medication. But if I am correct, he may have a medical problem, such as anemia or an underactive thyroid gland, that could be corrected. I am suspicious of a stroke or other brain disorder because of 1.) the speed with which he has deteriorated, 2.) his heart attack indicates arterial disease and 3.) his surgery could have led to vascular blood clots.

Let me know how this plays out.

To give you related information, I am sending you a free copy of my Health Report "Stroke." Other readers who would like a copy should send a long, self-addressed, stamped envelope and $2 to Newsletter, PO Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092-0167. Be sure to mention the title.

DEAR DR. GOTB> My husband and I have been married 20 years and dated for four years prior to marriage.

For the past 10 years or so, I have been dry. We used estrogen and all kinds of easy-glide jellies vaginally. Nothing helps, and now I am feeling as if I have been branded when we are intimate. I burn and feel so tight. Do you have any suggestions?

DEAR READ I strongly urge you to address this problem with your gynecologist, who will be able to suggest a resolution for your discomfort. For example, intermittent courses of oral estrogen therapy would probably help you.