I have a high-output permanent ileostomy. The leaks are horrendous, and the phantom leaks torture, tease, and poke me. I have been provided with all the right medical supplies: I have big bags, small bags, adhesive rings, paste, and Demi-lunes. The stoma is right on my belly button, and I have an old scar that pleats. I block it up with paste and have the extra security of Demi-lunes. I started to control the leaks by simply not eating. I didn't realize what I was doing; I thought things were settling down and my body was adjusting. It sounds ridiculous, I know. I couldn't
see how thin I was, always dehydrated, always drinking lots of water. I eventually collapsed with a violent drop attack, breaking my nose and ribs, and have spent the last 4 months with a nasal gastro tube. The doctor told me if I go below 58 kg, I will have a feeding tube put in my stomach. I don't know what to do, as the very thought of food makes me shudder. I have to wash it down with a drink. I'm making protein shakes, etc., full-fat milk, and forcing the food down—really forcing. I have no desire to eat at all. The bag leaks every day now, often 2 to 3 times. I eat small meals 5 to 6 times a day; my anxiety levels are through the roof. It's as though my body and brain believe food is the enemy. I've worked this out and have to put an alert on to remind me to eat; otherwise, I don't. I struggle to leave my flat. Has anyone out there experienced these psychological problems? Any tips that could help me overcome these feelings? The irony of it all: I was a very successful high-end chef; food was my life, my passion, and now it is the enemy. I'm sitting at 58.5 kilos at the moment. I really want to avoid the feeding tube again. I'd be so grateful for any pointers. Thank you.

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Caz67
Well it's just coming upto a year since I had my emergency stoma. Since joining MAOM I have learnt all different kinds of ideas to help with the stoma. Not only that I have made a lot of good friends who I can talk to. The beauty of this site is it's not just giving tips and ideas we talk about anything and everything. So thank you for giving us a great site. XX
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