Change In The Color Of Stoma

Posted by ali_frett, on Wed Apr 25, 2012 7:23 pm

Hi there, I had my surgery 5 months ago and recently have noticed a change in the colour of my stoma. Best way to describe it initially it was the colour of your tongue, pretty pinky but in the last couple of weeks it has become a really dark red, (kinda like if you bite your tongue or like a canker sore). I have made sure that the base plate is not too tight or rubbing, it isn't sore and its working as it should. Anyone have any idea what this could be or I should be worried? Thanks in advance.

Reply by magpie, on Wed Apr 25, 2012 7:31 pm

Hi there, I'm pretty sure that you have nothing to worry about. The redder the better is what I've always heard. It's a sign of good circulation and no blockages, etc. But of course if you're worried you can always call your doctor.

Reply by Xerxes, on Thu Apr 26, 2012 12:15 am

Magpie,

I agree with you. Good coloration, good blood flow; no ischemia.

X_

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Reply by DH, on Thu Apr 26, 2012 5:47 pm

Hi, I was told that if the stoma turns pale or white, then there is something wrong.So as long as your stoma is a ripe red or pink it is a healthy one.

Reply by twobears, on Mon Apr 30, 2012 11:53 pm

I have had an Illestomy for 12 yrs and I was also told to watch the color and if it changed I should go immediately to the Dr. who did the surgery. He will be able to tell if something is wrong. Please don't wait and worry
twobears

Reply by mate777 , on Tue May 01, 2012 4:06 am

Hi:
My stoma darkened, turned black.Nothing to worry about. The Stoma Nurse said Just think of it as a scab, and she trimmed it off with a pair of scissors. Didn't hurt.
So now I have a nice pink Innie (as opposed to a black Outie)and wear a convex appliance.
I have to apply it laying down, or it won't stay on.

I set up my needs on the bed, Shower, and proceed.
This includes a bed tray with extended legs (paper towel cores)to fit over me, and a Mirror attached to the underside. My oil, stoma powder and no sting spray etc occupy 3 toilet tissue cores taped together in a plastic tray from the dollar store.I use a fan to blow off excess powder and dry the spray.(also from the Dollar Store.)

All but the tray live comfortably in a cheap plastic chest of drawers in my bedroom.

My appliance lasts 5 to7 days.... more or less ... : ) ...

Any way, it is necessary to see your Stoma nurse right away, since any change in the stoma needs her attention.

Reply by Counting My Blessings, on Wed May 02, 2012 1:00 pm

Check, mate77. See your WOCN or physician if you don't have a WOCN or ostomy clinic. I don't have that luxury here. My stoma turned deep purple, then black by the time a wound care nurse saw it. My surgeon had to remove it in his office about a week after I went home from the hospital.

So just from the stories so far, we have a range of opinions about what color might constitute a problem.

I also think it sounds like you are getting better circulation. I haven't noticed any changes in color for my new stoma. But that doesn't mean anything for you.

At least write down the question and ask about color changes the next time you see medical personnel. Please make an appointment if it turns to midnight.

Reply by dulcimerman, on Wed May 02, 2012 5:18 pm

Hi I wouldnt worry too much about the change in colour, stomas do tend to change colour now and then .ostly they are quite deep red in colour and so long as its working and your pouch is filling up then all is ok.
If you do feel worried then phone your stoma nurse and she will be more than helpfull.

Change in the color of stoma

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