How To Relieve Gas With An Ostomy - Practical Advice

Living with an ostomy comes with its unique set of challenges, one of which is managing gas. Based on discussions and shared experiences from the MeetAnOstoMate forum, here are practical and effective ways to relieve gas with an ostomy.

Dietary Adjustments

Your diet plays a significant role in gas production. By making a few tweaks to what and how you eat, you can minimize gas buildup:

• Avoid Gas-Producing Foods: Certain foods are notorious for causing gas. It's best to steer clear of beans, broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, onions, radishes, soy products, nuts, dairy, carbonated drinks, and some fruits and vegetables.
• Introduce Foods Gradually: Start with small amounts and chew your food thoroughly. This approach helps your body adjust and reduces the likelihood of gas.
• High Protein, Low Fiber Diet: A diet focused on high protein and low fiber can help reduce gas production. Try to avoid grains, cereals, and pasta.
• Probiotics and Cranberry Juice: These can aid in balancing gut flora, which in turn can reduce gas.
• Peppermint Tea and Oil: Peppermint is known for its gas-relieving properties. Drinking peppermint tea or using enteric-coated peppermint oil capsules can help disperse gas.
• Avoid Swallowing Air: Actions like chewing gum, drinking through a straw, smoking, and eating too quickly can lead to swallowing air, which increases gas.

Behavioral Changes

Incorporating certain habits into your daily routine can also help manage gas:

• Chew Food Thoroughly: This reduces the amount of air you swallow while eating, which can prevent gas buildup.
• Walk Regularly: Physical activity, like walking, can help move gas through your digestive system.
• Eat Small, Frequent Meals: Eating every 2-4 hours instead of having large meals can reduce gas buildup.

Medication and Supplements

Sometimes, dietary and behavioral changes might not be enough. In such cases, medications and supplements can be helpful:

• Gas-X and Beano: Over-the-counter medications like Gas-X and Beano can be effective in managing gas. Beano is particularly helpful when taken before meals.
• Simethicone Products: Products like Gas-X Softgels or Kroger Ultra Strength Gas Relief contain simethicone, which helps break up gas bubbles.
• Atrantil: This supplement has been recommended by some for managing gas.
• Charcoal Tablets: Consistently taking charcoal tablets after meals can reduce gas by 60-70%.

Appliance Management

Managing your ostomy appliance is another key aspect of gas relief:

• Burping the Bag: You can release gas by slightly opening the top or tail of your ostomy bag.
• Use Bags with Filters: These bags help expel gas without odor, though effectiveness can vary.
• Osto EZ Vent: This product allows for easy venting of gas from the pouch.
• Stoma Plugs: These can help manage gas and reduce noise.

Practical Tips

A few additional practical tips can make managing gas easier:

• Set Alarms at Night: Waking up periodically to release gas can prevent ballooning of the ostomy bag.
• Lie on Your Side: Lying on your left side in the fetal position can help relieve gas pain.
• Use a Powerful Fan: A fan can help control odor when changing the bag.
• Keep a Food Journal: Tracking what you eat can help identify foods that cause gas, allowing you to avoid them.

Emotional and Social Support

Dealing with gas and other ostomy-related issues can be emotionally challenging. However, a positive attitude can make a big difference:

• Humor and Acceptance: Embracing the situation with humor can reduce stress and embarrassment.
• Informing Coworkers: Educating those around you about your condition can foster a supportive environment.

Additional Remedies

If the above strategies are not sufficient, consider these additional remedies:

• Fennel Tea: Drinking 2-3 cups of fennel tea a day can help with gas.
• Warm Baths and Massages: Both can provide relief from gas pain.
• Consult a Doctor: If gas persists, it may be necessary to consult a doctor. They might prescribe medications like Levbid or explore conditions like SIBO (small intestinal bacterial overgrowth).