Recovering From An Ostomy Surgery - Peer Advice

Recovering from an ostomy surgery is a unique journey that requires patience, knowledge, and support. Based on the discussions from the MeetAnOstoMate Discussion Forum, here are detailed tips and advice on recovering from ostomy surgery:

1. Educate Yourself:
- Research and educate yourself about ostomy care, lifestyle adjustments, and potential challenges.
- Join online communities and watch videos about ostomy experiences to gain valuable insights and prepare for the challenges ahead.

2. Seek Support:
- Join local support groups to connect with others who have undergone similar experiences.
- Seek advice from an Ostomy Nurse for reassurance and guidance on managing the ostomy.

3. Physical Activity:
- Engage in daily walking and gentle stretches to aid in the healing process.
- Be cautious about exercise to avoid the risk of hernias.

4. Diet and Medication:
- Consider dietary adjustments such as low residue meals before swimming or other physical activities.
- Experiment with different foods cautiously to understand their impact on the ostomy output.
- Seek advice from a healthcare professional or Ostomy Nurse for specific dietary recommendations post-surgery.

5. Emotional Support:
- Stay positive and be open to learning and sharing experiences with others.
- Share experiences and seek advice from the ostomy community to address issues such as skin irritation and managing ostomy equipment.

6. Ostomy Products:
- Experiment with various ostomy products from different suppliers to find a system that works best for you.
- Advocate for suitable toilet facilities at work if needed and ensure you have enough stock of supplies at work.

7. Recovery Process:
- Take time to heal and settle into a routine.
- Be patient with the recovery process and maintain a positive outlook.

8. Ostomy Reversal:
- Be prepared for potential pain and discomfort post-reversal surgery.
- Focus on diet adjustments and exercise caution to avoid potential complications like hernias.

9. Swimming with an Ostomy:
- Use a one-piece drainable pouch and waterproof tape to secure it for swimming.
- Wear a looser fitting swimsuit and consider using an ostomy belt for added security.

10. Returning to Work:
- Advocate for suitable toilet facilities at work if needed.
- Plan meals carefully to manage digestion during working hours and carry a spare bag, change of clothes, pouch powder, and wipes in case of emergencies.

Remember, everyone's experience with ostomy surgery and recovery is unique, and it's important to seek guidance from healthcare professionals and the ostomy community for personalized advice and support.

Check out these links for more information:

• Seeking Tips for Upcoming Ileostomy Surgery (August 10, 2013)
• Recovering from Surgery: Need Encouragement (June 05, 2023)
• Tips for Total Colectomy with Ileostomy? (April 26, 2017)
• Feeling Unprepared for Ileostomy Surgery (June 25, 2019)
• 7 Weeks Post-Op: Lessons Learned and Tips for Recovery (January 25, 2023)
• Advice for Upcoming Ileostomy Surgery? (October 06, 2019)
• Struggling with Ileostomy Surgery Recovery - Feeling Overwhelmed and Alone (February 28, 2014)
• Preparing for ileostomy surgery - need advice on supplies and post-op care (January 14, 2018)
• 10 Tips for Newbies: Advice from a Newbie (May 20, 2011)
• Preparing for Surgery: Seeking Advice and Positivity! (June 27, 2013)