Need Advice on Hernia or Fascia Issues Affecting Ileostomy Function

I've had my ileostomy for three years. It stopped working four months ago, had no real fluid output, and a half a cup of mushy food takes 7 to 12 hours to go through my ileostomy. I lost over 37 pounds, extremely malnourished and weak. The surgeon said he thinks it's because the fascia/muscle on one side of my stomach is too tight and stopping output or due to a hernia. Please, has anyone had these symptoms and had a surgery that helped the ileostomy start working again???

Hello Lori, I have not heard of what you describe, but it sounds serious. What is your doctor planning on doing? If you aren't getting answers, or don't trust him/her, you should seek a second opinion. How are you coping in the meantime? I mean, you can't function without being able to eliminate? Please let us know how you get on.

Terry

I agree, that sounds super serious. Slow output is less of a problem than not enough output. Your doctor needs to explain a clear plan to deal with this. If you don't get a satisfactory answer, get a second opinion.

Hi Lori, I agree with what others said about getting a second opinion. I would think fixing the hernia and moving the stoma to the other side or higher up would help.

When you post, “Doctor thinks,” it's time for a second opinion. Best of luck. Keep us posted with the outcome.

My Ostomy Journey: Kimberly | Hollister

I just had hernia surgery 14 days ago; my hernia was very obvious right at my stoma. On three occasions in the last 15 months, I was hospitalized for blockages, which were very painful with cramping and needed an NG tube a couple of times. I agree with Riva; if your doctor is not sure, I would find someone who can tell you for sure what is going on. A CT scan will quickly tell them. I sure hope they can figure out what's going on with you and get you back on the right track to enjoying life again.