Why Do I Have Blood Clots In My Ostomy Bag?

There are several possible reasons why you may be noticing blood clots in your ostomy bag, which is a bag attached to a surgically created opening on your abdomen through which stool or urine is collected. Some of these reasons include:

1. Inflammation: If the stoma site is inflamed or irritated, it can cause bleeding, which may lead to blood clots in the ostomy bag.
2. Infection: Infections in the stoma site can cause bleeding and the formation of blood clots.
3. Medication: Some medications, such as blood thinners or aspirin, can increase the risk of bleeding and the formation of blood clots.
4. Trauma: Any trauma or injury to the stoma site can cause bleeding and the formation of blood clots.
5. Cancer: In rare cases, the formation of blood clots in the ostomy bag can be a sign of cancer.
6. Prolapse: Prolapse occurs when the stoma protrudes out of the abdomen. This can cause trauma to the stoma, which may result in bleeding and the formation of blood clots.
7. Polyps: Polyps are growths that can develop in the stoma or the intestine. They can cause bleeding and the formation of blood clots.
8. Dehydration: Dehydration can cause the stool to become harder and more difficult to pass, which can lead to trauma to the stoma and bleeding.
9. Hemorrhoids: Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the rectum and anus that can cause bleeding. If you have hemorrhoids, the blood may travel through the ostomy and end up in the ostomy bag.
10. Fistulas: A fistula is an abnormal connection between two organs or tissues. If you have a fistula that connects to the intestine or stoma, it can cause bleeding and the formation of blood clots.

Based on discussions from the MeetAnOstoMate Discussion Forum, the presence of blood clots in an ostomy bag can be concerning and may require medical attention. Here are the insights and advice from the forum:

1. Check the color of the clots, as black clots could indicate internal bleeding and require immediate medical attention.
2. Seeking a referral to an ostomy specialist or a GI doctor is important for proper evaluation and care.
3. It's essential to keep the medical team informed and seek their advice promptly.

If the issue persists or worsens, it is advisable to seek medical attention promptly. It's important to communicate with healthcare professionals and seek specialized care for proper evaluation and management of the situation. If the individual has further concerns, they may consider posting their question in the discussion forum of the MeetAnOstoMate website for additional insights and support.

If you have been asked a medical question, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and care.

Check out these links for more information:

• Blood Clots in Ostomy Bag - Need Advice! (September 20, 2015)
• Burst bag causing stoma bleeding (March 29, 2012)
• Need advice for blood on ostomy bag from skin irritation (August 28, 2022)
• Ostomy Bag Filters: Clogging After Bowel Movements - Normal or Am I Missing Something? (December 19, 2011)
• Blood spurting from stoma during bag change - need advice! (April 13, 2015)
• Surviving Hysterectomy Complications: Seeking Tips and Support (May 31, 2012)
• Bleeding around stoma after heavy lifting? (March 27, 2013)
• Dealing with Foam and Air in My Bag - Need Help! (December 03, 2011)
• Blood from stoma rubbing during jogging. Help! (June 04, 2019)
• Need advice on broken, red, sore skin - possible water issue? (July 09, 2021)