Question: What core exercises are safe for someone with a colostomy?
Answer: Based on the forum discussions, here are some core exercises and recommendations for individuals with a colostomy:
1. Begin with Low-Impact Exercises: Start with low-impact exercises such as walking, swimming, and stationary cycling. These activities can help engage the core without putting excessive strain on the abdominal area.
2. Diaphragmatic Breathing: Practice diaphragmatic breathing to st ...
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Question: Has anyone been pregnant with a stoma? How did it go?
Answer: Based on the forum discussions, many women have successfully navigated pregnancy with a stoma, reporting both challenges and positive experiences. Here are some key points:
- Pregnancy Outcomes: Many women with ileostomies or colostomies have had normal, healthy pregnancies and deliveries. Some experienced disease remission during pregnancy.
- Appliance Fit: As the abdomen grows, the stoma may e ...
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Question: Will Welland hydrocolloid melt and block my stoma like Hollister did?
Answer: The forum discussions did not specifically address Welland hydrocolloid products, but they provided general insights into the behavior of barrier rings and hydrocolloid materials. Users reported that barrier rings from various brands, including Hollister, tend to swell when exposed to moisture or output, which is a normal reaction that helps create a seal around the stoma. However, some users expe ...
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Question: What are the best ostomy bags for colostomy patients?
Answer: Based on the forum discussions, here are some suggestions for ostomy bags for colostomy patients:
1. Hollister Options:
- Hollister opaque Velcro-closure pouch with filter and peek-a-boo window (#8962) is recommended for its longer length, which helps keep waste below the filter.
- Hollister 2-piece system with a charcoal filter can be combined with a deodorizing lubricant to help the efflu ...
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Question: What lubricant is best for a colostomy pouch?
Answer: Based on the forum discussions, several options are suggested for lubricating a colostomy pouch:
1. Baby Oil: Widely used by many users, baby oil is noted for its effectiveness in helping stool slide out smoothly. It is important to use only a small amount (2-3 drops) and ensure it does not come into contact with the wafer or adhesive area to avoid compromising the seal.
2. Hollister Adapt Lubri ...
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Question: Is it normal for my stomach to be swollen and protruded after ostomy reversal surgery, and will it return to normal?
Answer: Based on the forum discussions, it is common to experience abdominal swelling and a protruded appearance after ostomy reversal surgery. This swelling is typically temporary and part of the normal healing process. Many members report that it can take several months for the swelling to subside and for the abdomen to regain a more typical appearance. However, some degree of change in abdominal contou ...
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Question: How can I gain weight as a vegetarian with an ileostomy?
Answer: Based on the forum discussions, here are some strategies for gaining weight with an ileostomy, particularly for vegetarians:
- Calorie-Dense Foods: Focus on high-calorie, nutrient-rich foods. Consider adding avocados, nuts, seeds, and nut butters to your meals. Use full-fat dairy products if tolerated, or alternatives like coconut milk or almond milk.
- Frequent Meals: Eat small, frequent meals ...
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Question: What is the right balance of water and electrolytes for someone with an ileostomy?
Answer: For individuals with an ileostomy, maintaining a balance between water and electrolytes is crucial to prevent dehydration. Here are some general guidelines based on the forum discussions:
- Fluid Intake: Aim for a daily fluid intake of around 2 liters (approximately 68 ounces), but this can vary based on individual needs, activity levels, and climate.
- Electrolyte Balance: It's important to incl ...
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Question: Can an ileostomy cause hormone changes in postmenopausal women?
Answer: The discussions from MeetAnOstoMate do not directly address whether an ileostomy can cause hormone changes in postmenopausal women. However, they do provide insights into how hormonal changes during perimenopause and menopause can affect women with an ileostomy. Here are some relevant points:
- Hormonal fluctuations during perimenopause and menopause can impact digestive function, potentially alt ...
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Question: What are some recommended books by medical professionals on living with a stoma?
Answer: The forum discussions provide several book recommendations by medical professionals on living with a stoma. These include:
- "Holistic Stoma Care" by P.K. Black, which is cited in Phoenix magazine.
- "Living with a Stoma" by Dr. Craig A. White, available through Sheldon Press.
- "The Ostomy Book: Living Comfortably with Colostomies and Ileostomies" by Barbara Dorr Mullen and Kerry Anne McGinn.
- ...
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Question: Are there any books by medical professionals about ostomies?
Answer: Yes, there are several books written by medical professionals about ostomies. One notable book is "Abdominal Stomas and Their Skin Disorders," which is a reference book containing photographs and medical terminology for various peristomal skin complications, along with standard treatment options. Another book is "Abdominal Stomas: Indications, Operative Technique and Patient Care" by Jerome S. Abr ...
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Question: Has anyone experienced sharp, burning pain at the stoma opening during output with an ileostomy?
Answer: Based on the forum discussions, here are some insights and advice related to the described pain:
- Pain Characteristics: Sharp, burning pain at the stoma opening, especially during output, can sometimes be related to nerve-related issues or mechanical irritation.
- Mechanical Causes: Ensure that the ostomy appliance is fitted correctly. A poorly fitting barrier or pouch can cause pressure or irr ...
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Question: When should I mention my colostomy to someone I'm dating?
Answer: Based on the discussions from the forum, here are some insights on dating with a colostomy:
- Timing of Disclosure: There is no universal rule for when to disclose your ostomy. Some people choose to mention it early in the relationship, while others wait until a connection is established. The key is to choose a timing that feels comfortable for you.
- Building Confidence: Confidence and self-acc ...
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Question: How can I store ostomy supplies in a small bathroom?
Answer: Based on the forum discussions, here are some storage solutions for ostomy supplies in small spaces:
- Compact Storage Units: Consider using slim storage units that fit in tight spaces, such as between the toilet and cabinet. These can be found on platforms like Wayfair or Amazon and are effective for organizing supplies discreetly.
- Narrow Plastic Drawers: Affordable narrow plastic storage dra ...
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Question: How can I remove stubborn adhesive residue from my colostomy bag?
Answer: Based on the forum discussions, here are some methods to effectively remove stubborn adhesive residue:
1. Adhesive Remover Products: Use a combination of adhesive remover spray and wipes. Apply the spray around the edge of the adhesive, wait a few seconds, and then gently peel off the adhesive while supporting the skin. Follow up with wipes to clean any remaining residue.
2. Household Oils: Cons ...
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Question: Has anyone experienced a skin ulcer under their stoma bag that won't heal, and how did you treat it?
Answer: Based on the forum discussions, here are some strategies that have been suggested for managing and healing peristomal skin ulcers:
1. Barrier Seals and Dressings:
- Consider using ConvaTec Ostomy Barrier Seal rings or Eakin Seals to protect the skin and prevent leakage.
- Use DuoDERM Extra Thin CGF Dressing to "picture-frame" the peristomal skin, which can help clear chronic skin issues and ...
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Question: Is it normal to have trouble keeping a colostomy bag on after surgery, and does it improve as the skin heals?
Answer: It is common to experience challenges with ostomy bag adhesion shortly after surgery, especially if the stoma is located in a moist area. As the surgical site heals, the moisture levels may decrease, potentially improving adhesion. Here are some general tips to help with adhesion:
- Ensure the peristomal skin is completely dry before applying the appliance. Use a hair-dryer on a cool setting or b ...
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Question: What ostomy bag works for an innie stoma without needing a belt to prevent leaks?
Answer: For managing an "innie" or retracted stoma without relying on an ostomy belt, consider the following options based on forum discussions:
1. Convex Appliances: Many users have found success with convex wafers or pouches, which apply gentle pressure around the stoma to help it protrude slightly and improve the seal. Products like the ConvaTec 2-piece Convex Moldable Wafer and Coloplast SenSura Mio ...
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Question: Is hair loss normal after ostomy surgery?
Answer: Experiencing hair loss after ostomy surgery is a common concern among ostomates. This type of hair loss is often referred to as "telogen effluvium," which is a temporary condition triggered by the physical stress of surgery, anesthesia, or significant changes in health. It typically begins 2-4 months post-surgery and can last several months before regrowth starts. Most individuals report that thei ...
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Question: How can I help my mom manage nausea and appetite issues after her ostomy reversal?
Answer: Based on the forum discussions, here are some general guidelines and advice for managing eating and appetite issues after an ostomy reversal:
- Diet Progression: Start with a liquid or very soft diet and gradually reintroduce solid foods as tolerated. This can help manage nausea and ease the digestive system back into normal function.
- Small Portions: Encourage eating small, frequent meals or s ...
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