DEAR DR. GOTT: Something wonderful happened to me recently. I had suffered with a hiatal hernia for 30 years. My wife's chiropractor told her of an old treatment that no one seems to know about or use now. I was directed to go to my porch, stand on the second step, quickly drink a quart of water and jump rather hard onto the ground. I did and felt immediate relief.

My hernia symptoms have been gone now for six months. I'm not sure of the longevity of this treatment, but I could surely do it every month if I had to. Obviously, this is just a mechanical thing. The water straightens out the tube leading into the stomach, allowing our own "equipment" to work.

I know this isn't a $10,000 operation or a lifetime of antacids, but why can't doctors mention simple treatments like this? Perhaps you have already discussed this in your column, but I want you to know it worked for me.

DEAR READER> I'll mention it despite the fact that there is abundant therapy for hiatal hernia. I'm still trying to figure out how jumping and drinking can reduce the symptoms of hiatal hernia.

To give you related information, I am sending you a copy of my newly updated Health Report "Hiatal Hernia." 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. Be sure to mention the title.

DEAR DR. GOTB> About five of us work in a small room. None of the windows opens. One of the workers is a big eater and very overweight but a very nice person. He had a portion of his stomach stapled, hoping to lose weight. Now our problem is that he passes uncontrollable, skunkish gas. Can you suggest anything? I would suggest closing the back door, but I don't want to hurt any feelings.

DEAR READ I don't have quick fix for this discomforting situation. If someone in your office has a good relationship with the gas-producer, something diplomatic could be said so he might try an antigas remedy. But you're right. This is a delicate matter. I suspect that you will simply have to wait this out until he or she loses weight. Meanwhile, try an aerosol spray to deodorise the office space.

DEAR DR. G: I'm 87 years of age. I have a cholesterol of 204. Is that high for my age? What should it be?

DEAR RER: In my experience, a cholesterol of 204 in someone your age is entirely acceptable. In fact, many authorities recommend against cholesterol testing in people over 80. Enjoy your good health and forgot about cholesterol.

To give you related information, I am sending you a copy of my Health Report "Understanding Cholesterol." 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. Be sure to mention the title.