Question: Can you eat normally after an ileostomy reversal?
Answer: After an ileostomy reversal, many patients are advised by their surgeons that they can gradually return to a normal diet, but it is important to proceed cautiously and listen to your body. Here are some general guidelines based on forum discussions:
- Initial Diet: Start with a low-fiber diet immediately after surgery and gradually reintroduce foods as tolerated. This helps the bowel adjust and r ...
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Question: How can I treat raw, weepy skin around my stoma?
Answer: Based on the forum discussions, here are some strategies for managing raw, weepy peristomal skin:
1. Cleaning and Preparation:
- Clean the area with warm water only, avoiding soaps and wipes that may irritate the skin.
- Ensure the skin is completely dry before applying any products.
2. Skin Protection and Healing:
- Use a barrier spray or wipe, such as 3M Cavilon, to protect the skin.
...
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Question: How can I manage a burning sensation from ostomy output?
Answer: The forum discussions provide several insights into managing burning sensations related to ostomy output:
1. Leakage and Skin Protection: Burning is often due to effluent reaching the peristomal skin. Ensure the wafer opening fits snugly around the stoma to prevent leaks. Consider using moldable barrier rings instead of paste, as they can provide a better seal and reduce leaks.
2. Appliance Sele ...
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Question: Does smoking affect healing after colostomy surgery?
Answer: The forum discussions did not specifically address whether smoking cigarettes delays healing after colostomy surgery. However, from a general medical perspective, smoking is known to impair wound healing due to its effects on blood circulation and oxygen delivery to tissues. Nicotine and other chemicals in cigarettes can constrict blood vessels, reducing blood flow and oxygenation, which are criti ...
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Question: How can I manage constipation from pain medication with a colostomy?
Answer: From the discussions, several strategies are suggested for managing constipation related to colostomy, especially when pain medications are involved:
1. Hydration: Ensure adequate fluid intake, aiming for at least 6–8 glasses of water daily. This helps keep the stool soft and promotes regular bowel movements.
2. Dietary Adjustments: Increase dietary fiber through fruits, vegetables, and whole gr ...
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Question: What is 'Barbie Butt' surgery?
Answer: The procedure where the bottom is sewn up is commonly referred to as "Barbie Butt" surgery. This involves the complete removal of the rectum and anus, with the area being sewn shut, resulting in a smooth appearance similar to a doll's molded plastic buttocks. It is typically performed when the remaining rectum or anus is diseased, non-functional, or poses a cancer risk. Once this surgery is comple ...
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Question: How can I sleep comfortably with a night urine collection bag for a urostomy?
Answer: Based on the forum discussions, here are some insights and advice for sleeping comfortably with a night urine collection bag for urostomy users:
- Night Drainage Systems: Many users connect their urostomy pouch to a large overnight collection bag to avoid waking frequently. It's important to hang the drainage bag below the stoma level to ensure gravity aids in proper drainage.
- Preventing Block ...
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Question: What should I do about a laceration on my stoma?
Answer: Based on the forum discussions, minor lacerations on the stoma are relatively common and typically not a cause for alarm if the bleeding stops quickly. Here are some general guidelines for managing a stoma laceration:
- Apply gentle pressure with a soft cloth or gauze to stop any bleeding.
- Avoid using topical antibiotics like Neosporin on the stoma, as the stoma surface is mucosal and always mo ...
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Question: How can I manage anxiety with an inverted stoma?
Answer: Based on the discussions, here are some strategies to manage anxiety and prevent panicking with an inverted stoma:
- Consultation and Professional Support: Engage with a stoma nurse (WOC nurse) for personalized advice on managing an inverted stoma. They can provide guidance on fitting and product selection to minimize leaks.
- Surgical Consideration: If the stoma is persistently inverted and cau ...
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Question: What are the pros and cons of using closed-end ostomy pouches?
Answer: Based on the forum discussions, here are some pros and cons of closed-end pouches:
Pros:
- Convenience: Closed-end pouches are designed for single use, making them easy to remove and dispose of without the need for rinsing or cleaning. This can be particularly beneficial for those with limited dexterity or during activities where quick changes are needed.
- Comfort: Many users find closed-end pou ...
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Question: Is black liquid from a stoma serious?
Answer: Black liquid output from a stoma can be a cause for concern and may indicate the presence of old blood, which could suggest internal bleeding. It is important to consider recent dietary intake, as certain foods and medications can also cause black discoloration. However, if the black color persists and is not explained by diet or medication, or if it is accompanied by other symptoms such as pain, ...
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Question: Can blockages occur in an ostomy, and how are they managed?
Answer: Yes, blockages can occur in individuals with an ostomy, leading to a lack of stool output. Here are some key points on how to identify and manage such blockages:
- Symptoms of a Blockage:
- Little or no output from the stoma.
- Increasing abdominal or stoma pain.
- Cramping, bloating, and possibly vomiting.
- Abdominal distension.
- Self-Help Measures:
- Stay hydrated by drinking plent ...
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Question: What should I know before getting an ostomy, and how can I manage my fears?
Answer: Based on the discussions from MeetAnOstoMate, here are some key points to consider if you are preparing for an ostomy and feeling apprehensive:
- Leaks and Bag Failures: While leaks can happen, they are generally not frequent if you establish a consistent change-and-maintenance routine. Experiment with different pouching systems to find the best fit for your stoma and skin.
- Dietary Adjustments ...
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Question: Which companies supply ostomy supplies through Medicare?
Answer: Based on the forum discussions, several companies are recommended for supplying ostomy supplies while working with Medicare:
1. Byram Healthcare: Frequently praised for quick delivery, ease of navigating insurance questions, and direct billing to Medicare.
2. Edgepark Medical Supplies: Mixed reviews; some users report reliable service and Medicare billing, while others mention issues with billin ...
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Question: Is it normal to feel the urge to pass mucus after a loop ileostomy, and how can I manage it?
Answer: Based on the forum discussions, experiencing mucus discharge after a loop ileostomy is common and generally normal. Here are some key points from the discussions that may be relevant to your situation:
- Mucus Production: The rectum and any remaining colon can continue to produce mucus even after surgery. This mucus is a natural secretion that lubricates the bowel.
- Frequency and Sensation: Man ...
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Question: What can I expect in terms of hospital stay and pain after ostomy reversal surgery?
Answer: Based on the forum discussions, here is a summary of what you might expect regarding hospital stay and pain management after reversal surgery:
- Hospital Stay: The duration of the hospital stay after reversal surgery can vary. Some members reported stays as short as two to three days, while others mentioned up to six days. Early ambulation, such as walking the first night, is often encouraged to ...
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Question: Is it normal to feel nauseous and bloated weeks after a loop ileostomy?
Answer: Experiencing nausea and bloating after a loop ileostomy can be common, especially in the early weeks following surgery. Here are some insights based on similar discussions:
- Postoperative Nausea: It's not unusual to have nausea and bloating as your body adjusts to the changes after surgery. This can be due to slowed bowel motility or dietary adjustments.
- Hydration and Diet: Ensure you are stay ...
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Question: Can you get a massage with an ileostomy and a parastomal hernia?
Answer: Based on the discussions from MeetAnOstoMate, it is possible to receive a massage with an ostomy, including if you have a parastomal hernia, with some adjustments:
- Communication: Inform the massage therapist about your ostomy and any hernias. Most therapists can adapt their techniques to accommodate your needs.
- Positioning: Lying on your stomach is generally safe, but if it feels uncomfortab ...
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Question: Is it normal to find the first few weeks with an ostomy bag difficult?
Answer: It is common to feel overwhelmed during the first few weeks after ostomy surgery. Many people experience difficulties such as leaks, pain, and emotional distress. Here are some insights and advice based on similar experiences shared by others:
- Adjustment Period: It is normal to feel overwhelmed initially. Most people need several weeks to months to feel more confident in managing their ostomy.
...
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Question: Is it normal for a colostomy stoma to prolapse and change size throughout the day?
Answer: Based on the forum discussions, it is not uncommon for a stoma to experience fluctuations in size throughout the day. Many ostomy users report that their stomas may extend when upright or active and retract when lying down or relaxed. This behavior can be considered normal as long as the stoma retracts on its own, maintains normal color and blood flow, and does not impair output or gas passage.
H ...
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