Ostomy And Smells

One of the most common concerns for people with an ostomy is managing the smell of the waste material. The odor can be quite strong and unpleasant, especially for those who have just undergone the surgery and are still adjusting to the changes in their body. However, there are several ways to control the odor and make the experience more manageable:

1. Use odor control products: There are a variety of products available, such as deodorizing sprays and drops, that can help mask the smell of the waste material.

2. Empty the bag regularly: It's important to empty the bag as soon as it becomes full to prevent the odor from building up.

3. Change the bag as needed: Over time, the bag may become worn or damaged, which can lead to leaks and increased odor. It's important to change the bag regularly to keep it in good condition.

4. Be mindful of your diet: Some foods can cause stronger odors than others, so it's a good idea to avoid foods that are known to cause strong odors, such as onions and garlic.

5. Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of fluids can help dilute the waste material and reduce the odor.

Based on discussions from the MeetAnOstoMate Discussion Forum, here is a summary of advice and insights on managing ostomy smells:

1. Dealing with Smell:
- Smells from the ostomy can be real and are often more noticeable as the bag gets older and fills up with stool.
- Different products like Hollister's M9 can help control the smell.
- Changing the pouch daily or every other day, using ostomy deodorants, and using Aqua Seal from Costa Medical can help control odors.
- Certain foods and supplements like omega-3 or fish oil pills can affect the smell of the pouch.
- The perception of smell can be influenced by worry and anxiety, and developing alternative attitudes can help manage emotional responses.

2. Odor Control:
- Use deodorant drops or sprays in the pouch to eliminate odor.
- Consider using baking soda and cloves as a cheaper alternative for odor control.
- Mouthwash, M9, Na'Scent, and TicTac in the pouch are suggested for managing odor.
- Use humor to cope with embarrassing situations and share experiences with others.
- Consider using odor-reducing products like Limone Ostomy Deodorant Spray.

3. Managing Odor at Work:
- Practice your daily routine at home as if you were at work to gauge how often you need to empty your bag.
- Consider being honest with your colleagues about your condition and needs, which may also provide an opportunity to take breaks when necessary.
- Explore the option of irrigation to manage your ostomy and potentially reduce odors.

4. General Tips for Odor Control:
- Consider using alternative deodorants such as BBraun deodorant, peppermint oil, Osto-Fresh, Na'scent, or Safe and Simple to lessen the odor in the ostomy pouch.
- Consuming certain foods like butter, oil, parsley, pineapple, mango, and peach can help lower or reduce the odor.
- Use air fresheners, room sprays, and products like "Just a Drop" to eliminate odors in the toilet bowl before emptying the pouch.

5. Embracing Life with an Ostomy:
- Embrace the idea that you are a soul and not just a body.
- Use fresh sprigs of parsley with meals to reduce odor.
- Focus on appreciating life and the details that feel good to enhance.

6. Seeking Professional Help:
- Seek help from an ostomy nurse for adjustment and coping strategies.
- Connect with an Enterostomal Therapist (ET) for assistance in managing the appliance and finding suitable products.

7. Managing Odor in Public Spaces:
- Use bathroom fans, air fresheners, and carry a small air freshener in your purse to manage odors in public and private spaces.
- Use products like Ecoz, rinse out the bag daily, and try Diamond sachets in the pouch to reduce odor.

8. Managing Gas and Odor:
- Place a sticker over the filter on the pouch to block smell and reduce ballooning.
- Add lubricant/deodorant to the bag to reduce/eliminate odors.
- Change diet to eat less gas-causing foods.

9. Seeking Support and Encouragement:
- Join a support group for valuable help and advice from people who understand the challenges of living with an ostomy.
- Seek support from the online community and ask questions about managing the colostomy.

10. Facing Surgery and Recovery:
- There are resources available, such as ostomy nurses and online videos, to help with the learning curve.
- Finding the right accessories and products for the colostomy may take some trial and error, but eventually, the individual will find what works best for them.

If you have specific concerns about managing ostomy smells, consider posting your question in the discussion forum of MeetAnOstoMate for more personalized advice and support.

Check out these links for more information:

• Ostomy smell (October 25, 2012)
• Ostomy smells: Real or imagined? (July 08, 2017)
• Embarrassed about bodily functions, need advice (June 19, 2013)
• Dealing with Ostomy Appearance & Smell: Seeking Solutions (July 31, 2013)
• Returning to Work with an Ostomy Bag - Need Tips and Advice! (February 14, 2014)
• Ostomy Smell: Solutions & Medicare Coverage (October 31, 2017)
• Need advice on odor control with ostomy - feeling desperate! (May 12, 2014)
• Finding Gratitude in My Ostomy: Embracing Life's Blessings (May 27, 2013)
• Embarrassing First Day at Work with an Ostomy (January 19, 2013)
• Help with Ostomy Apparatus and Fistula Wound (March 23, 2013)