Question: How can I hide my ostomy bag under a dress for a wedding?
Answer: Here are some tips for concealing an ostomy bag under clothing, particularly when wearing a dress:
- Shapewear and Wraps: Consider using light compression garments or shapewear that can smooth the area without excessive compression. Ostomy-specific wraps, such as those from OstomySecrets, can hold the pouch securely and reduce its outline.
- Clothing Adjustments: If the dress has ruffles around ...
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Question: How can I soothe and protect my inflamed skin from frequent ostomy bag leaks?
Answer: Based on the forum discussions, here are some strategies to soothe and protect inflamed peristomal skin:
- Barrier Products: Use a non-stinging barrier film or spray, such as 3M Cavilon No-Sting Barrier Film, to protect the skin. Apply it before attaching the appliance and let it dry completely.
- Crusting Technique: Lightly dust the irritated skin with stoma powder, then seal it with a barrier ...
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Question: Will my joint pain improve after my loop ileostomy surgery for ulcerative colitis?
Answer: From the forum discussions, it appears that joint pain can persist even after surgeries related to ulcerative colitis, such as ileostomy or colectomy. This is because ongoing inflammation in any retained rectal or anal stump can continue to trigger systemic symptoms, including joint pain. It is advisable to consult with your physician to investigate and treat any remaining disease activity. Some m ...
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Question: How can I manage adhesive residue and high output during my dad's ileostomy bag changes?
Answer: From the discussions, here are some insights and tips that might help with your situation:
- Residue Removal: It is common for adhesive residue from rings and paste to remain on the skin. While it is not always necessary to remove every bit of residue, using adhesive remover wipes or sprays can help. If these are ineffective, consider trying different brands or types of adhesive removers, as some ...
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Question: Do you wear your ostomy bag inside or outside your pants?
Answer: The choice of wearing an ostomy bag inside or outside of clothing depends on personal comfort, stoma placement, and the type of clothing worn. Here are some insights from the discussions:
- Inside Clothing: Many users prefer to wear their pouch inside their clothing, often using longer or untucked tops to conceal it. This method can prevent the pouch from being compressed by waistbands, which mig ...
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Question: How does an ostomy affect intimacy?
Answer: Having an ostomy can change intimacy in several ways, but many people find that with time and communication, they can adapt and maintain a satisfying intimate life. Here are some insights and advice gathered from discussions:
- Self-Acceptance and Confidence: It's important for the person with the ostomy to accept their body and feel confident. This self-acceptance often leads partners to follow ...
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Question: What yoga practices and support systems are recommended for someone with a colostomy?
Answer: Based on the forum discussions, here are some insights and advice for practicing yoga with a colostomy:
- Start Slowly: Begin with gentle or restorative yoga, using props like blankets, bolsters, and blocks to support your body. This approach helps activate the parasympathetic "rest-and-digest" response and is recommended especially soon after surgery.
- Support Garments: Wearing a snug binder o ...
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Question: How can I manage my diet and enjoy meals with a transverse colostomy?
Answer: Based on the forum discussions, here are some strategies that might help you manage your diet and improve your experience with eating after a transverse colostomy:
- Gradual Food Introduction: Start by introducing new foods slowly and in small amounts. This can help you identify which foods you tolerate well and which ones cause issues. Keep a food diary to track your reactions to different foods ...
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Question: Why is my colostomy appliance suddenly leaking more often?
Answer: Based on the forum discussions, here are some strategies to address your colostomy leakage issues:
- Re-evaluate Appliance Fit: Since your stoma protrudes slightly, ensure that the flange opening is cut to fit closely around the stoma. Regularly re-measure your stoma as it can change size over time.
- Consider Convexity: If your stoma is not protruding enough, switching to a convex system might ...
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Question: What are the pros and cons of a J-pouch versus staying with an ileostomy for someone with Crohn's disease?
Answer: The forum discussions provide insights into the experiences of individuals with J-pouches and ileostomies, particularly in the context of Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. Here are some key points:
- J-Pouch Considerations: Many individuals with Crohn's disease are advised against J-pouch surgery due to the high risk of complications such as pouchitis, fistulas, and inflammation. The succes ...
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Question: How long does fatigue last after ileostomy surgery?
Answer: Fatigue after ileostomy surgery is a common experience and can persist for several months. Many individuals report that full recovery of energy levels can take anywhere from 3 to 6 months, and sometimes longer, especially if there were pre-existing health issues or complications during surgery. It's important to allow your body time to heal and to be patient with the recovery process.
Here are s ...
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Question: Can you feel your stoma, and does it hurt if injured?
Answer: A stoma itself does not have nerve endings, so it typically does not feel pain in the way other parts of the body do. However, individuals with a stoma may experience sensations related to the stoma's activity, such as the movement of gas or stool, which can sometimes be felt as a light movement or pressure. Pain or discomfort is more likely to originate from the skin around the stoma (peristomal ...
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Question: Does anyone else find it hard to maintain a healthy lifestyle with an ostomy?
Answer: The forum discussions provide several insights and strategies that may help address the challenges you're facing with maintaining a healthy lifestyle while living with an ostomy:
- Dietary Adjustments: Many ostomates find that introducing new foods gradually and in small portions can help identify what is tolerable. Chewing thoroughly and staying hydrated are crucial to prevent blockages and mana ...
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Question: Could my symptoms be an ileus or a blockage after my loop ileostomy reversal?
Answer: Based on the forum discussions, here are some insights regarding ileus or blockage after a loop ileostomy reversal:
- Symptoms of Blockage: Common signs include a sudden stop or marked decrease in output, cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, and watery or clear effluent. Vomiting, especially if accompanied by no output, is a red flag and requires immediate medical attention.
- Symptoms of Ileus: ...
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Question: How long did it take to return to a physical job after an ileostomy?
Answer: Based on the forum discussions, returning to a physically demanding job after an ileostomy or colostomy surgery can vary significantly depending on individual recovery and the nature of the work. Here are some general insights:
- Recovery Time: Many members suggest a recovery period of at least 6-8 weeks before considering returning to work, especially for physically demanding roles. Some individ ...
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Question: Is brown-colored mucus discharge normal after a colostomy?
Answer: Brown-colored mucus discharge from the rectum after a colostomy is common and generally not a cause for concern. The color can result from old blood, tissue, or bacteria in the rectal stump. Mucus production is normal as the rectal lining continues to secrete it. If the discharge is persistent or accompanied by other symptoms like pain or fresh bleeding, it is advisable to consult a healthcare pro ...
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Question: Does Creon work effectively for someone with an ileostomy?
Answer: From the discussions, it appears that pancreatic enzyme capsules like Creon are used by individuals with ileostomies to aid in digestion and nutrient absorption, particularly when the pancreas or small intestine cannot adequately break down fats and carbohydrates. However, users have reported that while these enzymes can improve digestion and nutrient absorption, they do not significantly reduce h ...
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Question: Where can I donate unused ostomy supplies?
Answer: Based on the discussions, there are several options for donating unused ostomy supplies:
1. International Organizations: Friends of Ostomates Worldwide (FOW) is a well-known organization that accepts ostomy supply donations and ships them globally. You can find more details and shipping instructions on their website.
2. Local Options:
- Contact your local hospital's wound-care department or ...
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Question: What are some common myths about ostomies?
Answer: Based on the forum discussions, here are some common myths about ostomies:
1. Ostomies Always Smell Bad: Many people assume that having an ostomy means dealing with constant odor. However, modern pouch systems are designed to be hygienic and odor-free, often incorporating charcoal filters and personal deodorant sprays to contain smells effectively.
2. Stomas Can Be Used for Penetration: There is ...
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Question: Is it common to use convex wafers immediately after ostomy surgery?
Answer: The discussions from MeetAnOstoMate suggest that the use of convex wafers is not limited to hard-to-seal cases but is increasingly considered for immediate postoperative use. Convexity is primarily recommended for stomas that are flush, retracted, or surrounded by skin creases, as it helps create a better seal by applying gentle pressure around the stoma. This can be particularly beneficial in pre ...
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