Colostomy

Hi - eight days ago I had 15 inches of my colon removed and a colostomy placed due to severe diverticulitis with abscesses. It appears I've had this a long time and it went undiagnosed, with my first bout in August on 2015.  I almost died they tell me. Now I have this bag and I'm overwhelmed.  Aside from being exhausted from major surgery, every twinge makes me anxious. Has there been anyone here who's recovered swiftly and gone on to lead a normal life after this? I can't even begin to describe the horror of waking up learni...

Hello  I started the irrigation process early this morning.  I had everything that I needed with me and for one strange reason or another it did not respond.  I placed teh cone in my stoma and low and behold nothing.  What did happen was that the water would filter out while the cone was in and fell into the sleeve but, not all of it 1.5 liters.  I am hoping that this model will work for me. I did reinsert the coe severa times.  Where did all of tha water go.  On my end it si 12:42.  It has...

I was "diagnosed" with Fibromyalgia several months ago. I just now began taking the medication, because frankly, I don't have the "tender points" and my muscles don't give me problems; my large joints do. So I am not sure if that's what I have. My neurologist put me on Lyrica. I haven't decided if I like it or not or if I will continue it. Does anyone else out there have this same issue or have you been diagnosed?

Hi there. It's been just over 12 months since  my colostomy operation due to diverticulitis and peritonitis and now I  am waiting to have a reversal.  I have developed a  hernia behind my stoma (it looks like a perky boob with pursed lips LOL and have another one on the right hand side which the doc tells me is a incisional hernia. I now have what i call my front bum LOL  Hopefully I will have them sorted when i have my reversal.   Has anyone else had this?  Oh and my weight is another issue too.  H...

Looking for feedback from those who have ileostomies and especially anyone who had a colostomy that was changed to an ileostomy. A little over 6 years ago I got a permanent colostomy. But now my gastro doctor said because of a bad stricture and polops in my bowel he is recommending to my colon surgeon that it be made into an ileostomy with most of my bowel removed--right now I have about 40% of my bowel left. Questions: Anything in particular, any suggestions or ideas you have that will help me adjust to an ileostomy? In particular I a...

Hi guys I'm home lying in bed from a procedure to see if my rectum is in good shape for reversal.  I was wondering if anybody has had the same situation as me. And if so how was the healing process? I had cervical cancer 8 years ago. A year later I ended up in Hospital with stomach poison. The general surgeon cut me open to fix an area of radiation damage to the sigmoid COLON. He decided he didn' want to do it and put a colostomy. I've had it 7 years and have made the best of it with no complications. I recently went to a specialis...

Hi.  I have a question for you single ostomates out there who have tried the dating thing.  I haven't gotten up the courage to do that since my colostomy and I'm not sure I ever will.  Could sure use some input on the subject.  When do you tell a prospective date about it?  My gut tells me to put my cards on the table and tell them immediately, thus giving them plenty of time to head for the hills.  But if you do that, you'll never meet anyone.  Should you wait until the first date and then tell them? &nb...

I am a neebie and was wondering if anyone has a colostomy due to a rectovaginal fistula. I have had the colostomy since June 2007 and have tried on 4 different attempts to have the fistula corrected. In January I am due to have another repair attempt using the gracilas muscle from my leg, then after recovery and if it holds, have the colostomy reversal along with a hernia repair. I am very apprehensive about this attempt to repair and really wonder should I go through with it or just keep the colostomy and just repair the hernia. Any sugge...

Just left my surgeon's office. He said my emergency colostomy was due to diverticulitis, not Ulcerative Colitis or Cancer, and it should be safe to reconnect me. I have already had an EKG by my primary care physician and it was clear. However, Dr. Carter still wants a release from my cardiologist. I have an appointment to have a colonoscopy through my stoma. When the release from the gastroenterologist and the cardiologist get to Dr. Carter, we will do the reconnect through the old incision. I do not have a hernia now and he warned me agai...

I have a friend who will  soon be flying from TN to N.C. and she was given two cards, one that is blue that said Urgent use of bathroom....guess that is for emergencies and a white one that she is to show to the scanners and they are suppose to take me to a private room to be "pat down".   Has anyone else flown recently and recieved these cards and do they work when needed?     She is also scared of "blowing up" in flight which I doubt will happen but has anyone traveled recently and if so hav...

I had an emergency colostomy June 5th and Praise God that I am alive! I am new to this group in hopes that I can meet some people and learn some tricks of the trade! My question or problem is this: I am getting a really good seal and using Convatec 2 piece and an elkin seal. I get about 5-6 days on the appliance. Lately I notice that my stool becomes a little softer (pancake a lot here) and when it does it seeps to the right only and burns or causes itching. The only thing I have found to work is to take 1-2 tablets of anti-diarreha each...

I am fairly new to this site and have posted comments to other's threads and now am posting my own story. My son who is 38 years old and developmentally handicapped is having his reversal done on Monday, March 26th. He is pretty nervous about this but happy to be having it done. It has been a very long road for him since August 18/11 when he took extremely ill with Fournier's Gangrene and had massive abdominal surgery on that date. They did a transverse to let his rectal area heal. His spincter muscles are not as strong as the surgeon wou...

When I was 20 I inherited a rare neuromuscular disorder. The nerves overstimulate otherwise healthy bowels and cause 12-25 BMs everyday, including 2-3 overnight. I am continent but get very little warning, so I always have to be near a bathroom. I always have small BMs that vary between hard and soft stools. It usually takes 15 min just to have one BM. I also have frequent painful cramps that cause sweating and shaking. The condition is debilitating but not actually dangerous. In the last 5 years my symptoms haven't changed at all. I tes...

Ok! abit of postivity here.. ive booked a trip to italy for a week.. but its the first time ive been on the hols since surgery.. what happends when they do a search on me and they feel the bag?? just dont want them thinking i have a bomb on me etc :/ anyone had any situations like this?? how do they tend do deal with it or will it just show up on the xray scanners and they are trained to reconginse such things..   cheers :)

I had an attempted colostomy reversal, they found yet another leak and now I have an ileostomy.  I am having trouble getting my bag on before any output and it's made the skin below my stoma very red and raw.  Anyone have tips or suggestions? Thanks in advance!

Hi all, had my colostomy on the 1st Dec 2010 and am just getting used to it now. It hasn't settled down to any routine yet and I would be interested to hear about any tips for diet and products and about irrigation also have big problem with pancaking which leads to blowouts any help would be appreciated.  Daydreamer

Had reversal 6 mos ago- still sucks...but have supplies to give. 60 Covatec closed end bags, flanges, adhesive, travel bag, etc... not a paying member, cannot advertise in class i fie d s. contact for details..... Roseinky

I haven't posted much here in my seven month journey as an Osteomate, but I have read a great deal.  There is so much wonderful support here and, alas, much need for support. My colostomy was the result of diverticulitis, an exploding intestine, and a severe case of stuborness while I somehow decided that intense pain would just go away...even though the pain got to the point where I had little realization of the passing of time.  Were it not for my dear partner who stood over me and insisted (loudly and somewhat rudely, I ...

Hi , my name is pippa and I am looking for advise and other people's opinion on colostomy reversal & hernia repair it will be getting done all at the same time, which I think is good. I had a colostomy last July through emergency surgery its a long story so will get to the point I had septicimia, septic shock, all my major organs were starting to close down lots and lots of complications anyway am having my reversal in october. Not to mention I am very scared about the whole thing but realise it has to be done I have had  ...

I have a colostomy and have had it now for about 2 months.  My surgeon said it can be reversed and I have a follow up with her in January to hopefully begin the process of testing for the reversal.  She said at my last visit though that sometimes they have to do an ileostomy because things need to heal.  I am so scared that I will go into surgery and wake up with this.  I also am fearful that even though she said it can be reversed what if they can't do it?  I am only 42 and this has affected me greatly.  I am...

Hello, Are there any things I need to be advocating for with my surgeon that will make life better with a bag? Don't really know what is possible so Im asking what you have already found out. If you are wearing one, you know what you wish you knew before you got it.  Thank you for sharing whatever info you can. Full of doubts and fears, but I have accepted that its happening. I am currently very active. Swimming, sailing, bike riding and surfing. An energizer bunny type. Its such an intimate subject I really do appreciate tha...

Everything I read says be careful not to get your pouch wet, but no one has given me any explanation of how to accomplish this when showering. I'm a new ostomate and my "schedule" is not predictable enough to risk showering with my pouch removed! Any advice would be welcome.

Hi everyone  was just wondering if anyone has heard of these black plastic bags ziplock i think. They may have been called bagaway or bag it away brought from america. They hold in the smell and thought they would be good for a cruise im going on in 16 mths. Saw them somewhere but can no longer find the site Thankyou.

Hi Everyone. I had my colostomy reversal on Jan. 30th and am still in the hospital. All indications so far are that it will be successful. The pain isn't as bad as the initial surgery in October so I am hoping my recovery will be better as well.  I had a low sigmoid ostomy following a diverticular abscess that would not respond to draining or antibiotics. It has been quite an ordeal. I will keep you posted on my daily progress if that would be helpful to those of you who are scheduled for this. Three days out I am on full liquids...

Do you ever forget you have a colo sotmy?  Mine seems to hurt all the time.  I sseems to burn and bleed a lot.  Is that normal?  I have had it for about a year and a half and I still have trouble with.  Can you be allergic to the thing that sticks to your stomach?  Thanks

I was very unwell yesterday. At midday I started having terrible contractions and my stoma stopped working. Then the pain increased so that it was a constant pain for 1 hour. Then I threw up and the pain  lessened only to increase agin within 10 minutes This went on till 9pm when air finally escaped from the stoma and the pain stopped.. This scenario happens every month or so. I use to go up the hospital where they put me on morphone and keep me in for observation in case the bowel bursts but I no longer do that. I keep my finger...

I'm more than a little lost. I knew due to my cancer location (rectal) I'd have the inevitable colostomy. Unfortunately the tumor's location and its starting to invade the prostate resulted in it and the bladder also being removed. So now I have 2 bags....... I was struggling to deal with just one. The surgery was 8 hours and almost 5 weeks ago. I'm still having issues with pain. Lost over 20 lbs and had to extend my medical leave from work. I am thankful I am alive and the margins all came back good. However, while being alive that d...

Hi all was wondering if you can help me, i have a colostomy now for 3 months and will have it for a further 3 months and then will have it reversed.  I have been off work for these first 3 months but will be returning next week and am absolutely terrified of my stoma 'popping' at the wrong moment like in a meeting etc - how does one prevent this from happening ??? No one knows at work about my stoma as dont feel confident enough to explain it all to them as they all my age and guys.  Food wise what should I avoid for ...

Hi!  I am considering having a colostomy and would like to know the good, the bad and the ugly.  I have a spinal cord injury at the C6-7 level so have no control over my bowel.  It has been 16 years now and I have been manually evacuating my bowels, but now things are changing and I am considering a colostomy.  Right now I do manual evacuation every other night and it can take up to 2 hours to complete so it really cuts into what I can do socially.  I am hoping that the colostomy will give ...

I am a college student and I would like to know more information about this subject in order to complete my assignment. I have been tasked to ask the community any ostomy related question in order to record my answers and pass down to my professor.

I have a colostomy and have been doing the irrigation thing.  It's working pretty well, but I have a questions for anyone out there who does the same thing.  How does one travel and stay overnite places when one irrigates?  It's not like you can count on a hook placed at the proper level in every bathroom.  Is there a portable device of some sort you can take with you to hold the irrigation bag?  Any advice would sure be appreciated as I'm planning a short trip in the next couple of months.  Thanks for any adv...

Has anyone had a similar experience? I have had my colostomy for one year. Twice in that time, my clip has become detached from my pouch, leaving the pouch open! The first time the whole clip just seemed to slip from the pouch. That was several months ago. No more problems until this morning, when the clip actually came undone. Both times I was at home, so could quickly fix things, but I am freaked out about what I would do if it happened in public. I don't use a lubricant. The first time, when it slipped off, I figured Ihadn't put it high...

Hi, everyone - I have a question. Do those who have had their ostomies for more than 2 years go through stages in terms of your feelings about them? I am starting my 3rd year with a permanent colostomy. The first year I was very ill for about 6 months and had a great deal of trouble learning to change the pouch, though I was always able to empty well. I was using a Convatec pouch. Then, the 2nd year, I started getting lots of leaks and odors. I went to the ostomy nurse and she discovered 2 large hernias. I changed to a 2 piece Hollister po...

My wife does her best to help me change my, and even used the paste around the bag to try prevent a leak. Yet, 3 hours later I would spring a leak between the bag and my skin. I am very frustrated by this. What can I do to fix this annoying problem?

I underwent an emergent colostomy in April. Depression, anxiety, fear...everyday I wake up and my first thought is "was that a nightmare?"  Of course the answer is always the same "no." Every pain frightens me....I am also dealing with a slow healing incisional infection. I need to shower twice a day, then do dressing changes three times a day. And I have no energy..I feel as if I was hit by a truck. It takes tremendous energy to not fall into a day long state of depression. And now I am dealing with leakage. I feel overwhelmed. I was...

im just curious, are there people like me that have the option to get a reversal from a colostomy but are just plain on the fence with pros, cons, ups downs whatever? And dont do anything? At the rate Im going I just wonder if its all worth it. Wow im 20 months in already. May i have your thoughts.   also,what is the difference between a colostomy and an ilieostomy?

I've had my colostomy since 1983. In the last year when I irrigate neither the water or stool comes out. Maybe the next day the stool will start to come out. I used to have great success irrigating. So good that I could go with out a pouch. I used to get a good 7 days with the wafer, now I  am struggle get 5. Would anyone have any idea what could have changed in my colon to keep the water and stool from coming out?       I have been taking mirlax for a long time.

hey there everybody, Im looking to hear from anybody who had the surgery to remove the anus, and also had a colostomy done at the same time... my wife Jenny was told today that she needs to have this done due to a anal stricture and diversion colitis on her stoma.  I'm looking for info on post Op recovery, what to expect,  what to look for and so on,  any info will help tremendously !!  send it to dentalguy22    thank you, and I hope to hear from you who had this done, soon! Dg22

Hello everyone. I'm trying to cut an extremly long 7 year story short so if you need to ask any questions feel free. Anyway, I have had progressively worse IBS C/D for around abouts 8 years now and I have spent almost the entire of those 8 years trying to find ways to stop it from getting in the way of me having a normal life but so far nothing has worked. Now when I say I have been trying for 8 years I mean with GP's, Gastroentorologists and IBS sufferers through forums on the internet to no avail and my treatments have ranged from col...

Does anyone know where to get free bags from? I live in Florida with no insurance. Now waiting for ssi decision.  Any suggestions? < >

Hi I am having trouble getting and keeping control of stool function.  I have always been one of those who "goes" more often and deals with a little bit more loose stools.  My problem now is that I am a high school teacher and more often then not, i have "stuff" happening during class.  While I have the option to call for an administrator to come take my class, this is not real practical so I don't do it as often as I should.  Between their busy schedules and my lessons that need to be completed, I tend to take chances ...

hi there, Anyone out there who has went through the reversal of their colostomy.  I have heard good and bad regarding this.  I think I would like to hear some more of the good before I commit myself to have this procedure. The colostomy itself was not too bad except that I had septia and peritonitis and almost died twice.  Now that that is all over and done with I am scared to go back and have surgery again, even though I hear it is not as bad as what happened before. If you have any positive feedback, I w...

Help I eat a good diet well balanced diet fruit and vegetables, chicken ,fish. All foods which are healthy. I also drink lots of water and decaffinated Tea. But still I suffer from constipation. I have been taking 2 MOVICOL a day for about year. It does not work. Can people tell me what works for them ?? Preferably a food suppliment or herbal. Someone mentioned unprocessed wheat bran but I cannot find it in the shops. The constipation can cause me excruciating pain like my bowel has twisted. I think the food just gets backed up and it is s...

Hello, I have posted before but have not had any replies.  I had my ostomy in 2007 so you would think I had it just about down now.  However, I have had problems since the onset.  First of all, I have Irritable Bowel Syndrome and find that this affects me as much now as before my ostomy -- maybe even worst.  I have eliminated sodas, wheat, milk, and several other things from my diet to try and help with the many diahhrea episodes I have. I recently had a hernia repaired and hoped this would cut down...

Is this much trouble comon place? In Feb 2010, they discovered a non-cancerous tumor between my colon and my bladder. I also had diverticulitis. They removed a the tumor and 8 inches of my colon in May 2010. Four days later my colon came back apart. Emergency surgery and I woke up with a bag on my stomach. I was in the VA hospital for a whole month. I also lost 50 pounds while I was in the hospital. I went from 215 pounds to 165. Great way to loose weight, but I don't recommend it to anyone.  Too bad I gained it all back before...

2 months since colostomy after 5 months of being unable to eliminate due to what was ultimately determined to be a problem with the sigmoid colon. Was needing colon cleanser 2x a day just to eliminate, which created a drastic weight loss.  Some days are good I have good eliminations, other times, like right now, I feel blocked, bloated, nothing moving and I want to scream - or die. Doc told me I would be healed in 6 weeks, I'm nowhere near that, although some days are better than others.  My job/career is that of a performing mu...

Hi everyone, I am a US expat who has lived for the past 14 years in adeveloping "2nd /3rd" world country in Latin America (Costa Rica).  I had an emergency colostomy (Hartmann's?) in August 2016 (performed at a public hospital here in Costa Rica) after suffering a perforated colon from previously undiagnosed diverticultis.  I am a 37 year old male. I have no other known health problems besides a nasty 3-pack a day cigarette habit and drinking far more red wine than is healthy.   At any rate, I am on the (Costa Rican) gove...

I had a permanent colostomy 5 days ago. No output whatsoever. Has anyone had this happen and how did you fix it? Dr sent me home with Dulcolax and Myralax but I'm thinking prune juice which is what helped before surgery. Anyone?

My reversal was a complete success.   It was even more brutal than the first surgery but I'm starting to really come around now.   I'm going to take my second chance at life and live it to the fullest.   Funny story.  My surgery was on March 10th.  The hospital cancelled ALL non life threatening surgeries on March 11th and on indefinitely because of the coronavirus!   I got my surgery just in time otherwise who knows how long I would have had the colostomy bag!  I hope you're all doing...

Hi Guys   Thanks for all of the info you all give to others!   I had diverticulits which ruptured my colon back in April 2020.  I had a foot of my colon remove and had a colostomy for 3 months.  I had a reversal of my ostomy at the end of June 2020.  Since my second surgery I have had constant diarrhea (4-8x/day) with moderate to severe abdominal pain.  I was diagnosed with C. Diff while in the hospital for the reversal surgery.  I have been on antibiotics twice (Vanco for 10 days each time).  I ...

Hi, just to keep you all up to date I had my operation on the 14th October was in hospital for 5 days I have done very well all seems to be settling down obviously tender and sore. I have been told not to lift anything for a while and certainly to avoid anything heavy. However I do have a question when you suffer with a hernia and you get it repaired and you give it plenty rest over the weeks/months can you carry on as normal in other words are you able to lift things that could be regarded quite heavy or is it best to never lift again...

I have a question:  Has anyone had surgery on a hernia as the result of a colontomy?  I had a colostomy four years ago and since then I have developed a very large hernia.  I am considering having surgery, but I am afraid that it would pose more problems.

I had my colostomy august 2013, I was a jeans man, tall slim built. Has anyone else encountered a problem with wearing jeans? The colostomy was a life changing event in a lot of ways this is only one of my issues. I currently only wear elastic waist chinos or sweat pants. Any input is appreciated   Thanks Dynodon

Hey everyone,  I'm posting because my nephew has been diagnosed with a severe case of Crohn's. He's only 14 but looks like he's 11. Underweight, smaller than his little brother, can't play football or wrestle anymore. Terrible. However, the good news is they were able to find and remove a stricture and started him on meds. He's starting to repond so fingers  crossed. I work with a colorectal surgeon in NJ and we discussed his case. My sister is worried about the future and possible colostomy surgery.  My surgeon told me ab...

I've recently gotten a colostomy reversal and I'm completely regretting it. I'm 18 years old, and I went into the hospital last year for a 'simple' delormes procedure to fix an anal prolapse and hernia. During the operation the surgeon sewed a stitch too tightly which created a small hole in the back of my bowel. I was sent home from the hospital a day later beleiving I was going to be okay, but I knew something was seriously wrong after getting home. Streams of blood was coming out of my back passage, it was very painful and I was general...

Hi Guys ........ It looks like I will need to make a decision before long as to whether to have an ileostomy or a colostomy which I will have to have for the rest of my life .....(currently have an ileo...)  I am fortunate enough NOT to actually have any 'bowel problems' per se as do many of you, but wondered if anyone out there had any experience of having both? What are the pros and cons, which is the easiest to manage etc etc....  Also whether or not to have my rectum removed? How does that feel? Would be grateful f...

Is there such a thing as an ostomy diet? I am barely getting any output from my colostomy in at least a month, and I have absolutely no appetite. Last year I was in hospital with what they thought was a partial small bowel obstruction. My "diet" has been  small amount of baby oatmeal and some coffee at breakfast: maybe cup of soup for lunch. Small amount of yogurt, jars of baby fruit. I tried to eat small amounts of well-cooked green beans with the carrots today. I've tried to drink white grape juice. What are the "...

Has anyone had a colostomy for Slow Transit Constipation and Pelvic Floor Dysfunction? I'm worried that I will have the surgery and it will not relieve the problem.      

Well here is the story I am 71 going to be 72 next month. I had a infection and came out with a ileostomy on one side and a mucas fistula on the other. I had that for 3 months and was the 3 months from ____. The doctor got the stoma pointing sideways so the flange would not stay on and my skin blistered, so we went back in and he gave me a colostomy where the mucas fistula was. Everything has been greatbut have so many questions and can't say that I have any use for the sad support here. Ok the doctor said eat anything you want and out he ...

Hello, I was wondering if anyone has any experience with colostomy guards or any protective equipment , i have found some adds are quite overstated. thanks, Bill

This is the first time I have posted on this site.  I've been reading it for a while and all of you have helped me feel less like a freak and given me hope.  I started with this whole thing last May with pain which I chose to ignore because I was afraid of cancer.  Many people in my family have had cancer and I was three weeks away from my son's wedding. When it got bad and I went to a specialist, he said he couldn't believe I was still functioning because I had an abcess which was infected. I ended up with a...

     Since my surgery, I have not been able to wear Spanx due to the tightness around the bag area.  I got the idea to order the Power Mama Maternity Spanx with the soft sheer tummy panel that grows with you as your tummy grows...knowing that this would expand with my bag as it fills.  I am excited to report it works perfect.  The Spanx works in the areas I need support, but gives me the comfort in the area of the bag without interfering.   

I see alot of people talking about a colostomy and irrigation and being able to go without a bag for a while.  I am somewhat confused between the two.  Is an ileostomy when you lose all or most of your colon and a colostomy  when you still have part of your colon working??  When you have an ileostomy, you can't go without a bag or wear a plug but do people have control when they have a colostomy???  What exactly is irrigation and can it be done with ileostomies??  I've done some reading but it isn't totally cl...

Twice, the pancaking has lead to stool leakage from underneath the wafer. I've tried the baby oil trick, not getting much luck. Any advice?

Hi I am very new to the ostomy world and am finding it all very amusing. I had an emergency colostomy done on the 11th November 6 days after seeing a specialist up at the emergency room at hospital. I knew I was in deep trouble with constipation, but I did not expect to have to have a colostomy as the first choice solution. that spun me out! but at that point I was at the shoot me or fix me stage from the pain and that bullet was sure looking attractive. I was so upset and so confronted by it all, but then a friend put me on to this fo...

I had emergency surgery a week ago. Had a portion of colon removed due to rupture from diverticulitis. Released from the hosp on Friday with only a small amount of liquid output from stoma. Since I've been home, I have been eating more solid foods but there has been absolutely no output, besides a small amount of gas. No liquids or other output. My appetite is terrible because I feel too full to eat. How long does it take to see output? I still have cramps and some abdominal pain, but my incision is still pretty fresh. Should I be concerne...

     hi all i have got my colostomy op on monday the 12th looking for hints and tips to helpwith life  before and after the op help on what pain management and moment foodfor my op i have not got any bowel prep at all and i have to take a pre load 3 150g packets 1 at 6pm in 400mm of water 1 at bedtime and 1 about 6am ant one else had this

3 weeks since surgery. I have hard time dealing with. When does it get better

Hi. Two weeks ago I had my colostomy reversal surgery and wonder if others out there would be willing to share their experiences with me on pain, any issues after surgery (what I should look out for) and any long-term issues as a result of having the colostomy or reversal surgery. I only had my colostomy for 9 weeks before the reversal (got it early Jan 2017 as a result of emergency surgery to address a burst colon from diverticulitis. Thank you so much.

Hi, there, I have responded to two mates with questions on this subject so far.  All I can say is I had mine done July 1, 2009.  I had the take down on the colostomy, 2 hernias and what my surgeon said was a 'tummy tuck'.  He did extensive surgery on me. Was in the hospital 5 days until they are sure there are bowel sounds.  After I got home the first few weeks were not the best.  Not all my problems were from the surgery though.  Two weeks after the surgery they took out the st...

Hi all...first I want to mention what a great site this is!!  I'm just new and poking around, but everybody is so supportive and lovely...I wish I found you all earlier I have a brand new colostomy and some questions with respect to diet.  I had an ileostomy previously, but this is very different!  I'm about 8 weeks in now, and the output is liquid almost all of the time (my colostomy is behaving like an ileostomy, actually!!!).  I've added fiber, restricted fluids, taken immodium...any other sugg...

Just asking, is there anyone out there who is permanent colostomy, irrigates and uses plugs, i've been for a few years now and would like a chat to compare experiences.

Hi, I am scheduled for colostomy reversal surgery and incisional hernia repair in 2 weeks.  Has anyone here had these procedures or know of anyone who has with a positive outcome? Everything I've read on line so far is making me want to back out!!

I just had a colostomy bag placed on the first of July, 2017. Before surgery I was at a healthy 125 lbs for my 5'5" frame. Now I weigh a little over 110 lbs. I am curious as to how long it will take before I gain weight and people stop asking me whether or not I am anorexic. It's absolutely embarrassing and I'm eating tons of protein bars, as well as protein shakes to maintain a healthy weight. I eat 5 small meals a day as directed and it's always full of protein. My question I guess is, is there any supplements or vitamins that I can take...

I was scheduled for surgery on the 30th, but got a call yesterday asking if I wanted to move up into an opening on the 16th. Of course, I accepted. So happy to get on with it and start my new life with a colostomy. Living without the embarrassment, pain and suffering I have endured for the past 2 1/2 years will be such a relief. I am ready for all my new and exciting endeavors. Wish me well!

Last October my intestines ruptured had emergency surgery ended up with colostomy bag I since went back to surgeon and he says it's a "major"surgery and will have to reopen my surgery scar again I'm scared to have reversal because of previous wound cut wide open again Also was told he regulates pain with epidural or spinal tap That really scares me because I've never had one so concerns of side effects I have read it's a minor surgery with small incisions under stoma Am I correct or is my surgeon correct 

Hi everyone, question my doctor has mentioned to me the use of stem cell to re grow sphincter muscle in the near future!! I see him next week gonna ask more details. Was just wondering if any of you guys doctors had mentioned it to you?? He says it is in the near future!!!! Super exciting news!!!

This is the only forum I've ever been on and only the 3rd post so I'm not sure if it's done correctly or even necessary but I'd like to try to share my info. The first post was a week after my permanent colostomy and I was asking for advise on not having any sign of output and I received several encouraging replies. Thanks. And yes, output did begin a couple days after. And the other post was about use of mineral oil as a pouch lubricant. And yes, in my case, mineral oil is what I use exclusively, with all pouch changes and as needed after...

  I have three outlets in my stoma. One is an iliostomy that is VERY liqued unless I take immodium or something to slow down my gut.  The second is what they call a mucous colostomy that for the most part just has clear mucous but from time to time has stool.  The third is a tiny colostomy outlet that backs up and has resulted in three or four ilius situations.  The stool that comes from there is large, very firm and dry. Most of the back ups seem to come after I've had a surgery or some procedure ...

My sister will have colorectal surgery for stage 2 cancer in November(3rd). I'm trying to learn all I can to help her adjust to this. I found a great thread here while searching for tips and such, it was very helpful! One big thing I learned is not to settle for what she may come home from the hospital with, if it doesn't work, try another product. Someone mentioned a person in Texas that sends out samples. Can someone direct me to a sample supplier? Is it too soon? Should I wait till surgery to see exactly what happens? Doc says colostomy...

Hi all, Has anyone had to take ill health retirement from work due to their condition. What was your experience. I am increasingly finding it difficult to cope with the  problems in having a colostomy. 

Opinions pros and cons of having a colostomy.

Hello  I have heard great responses from several folks here that irrigagte.  I finally received my supplies today.  I received the stoma caps and wafers, in addition to the irrigation it which includes the sleeves, and the other items.  I am very nervous to start.  The nurse that I can call is the surgeons assistant not a ostomy nurse but, she has recommended that I start.  They are pretty far from where I live.  Does anyone think that I can just go for it or do I need to sit with someone to teach me how ...

does anyone know how I can order Iry Pump and Iryfix (by Braun) online from other countries? i believe these products are not available in the US (which is a shame).   I am a new ostomate and started irrigating about 3 months ago and it improved my lifestyle 99%.  Hoping to try Iryfix, ostomy plug.

Please help direct on where or how i can get support of these supplies, they are very expensive in my country and i cant afford them, i need and help even people offering supplies they dont need and more or near expiry, my sister is the patient and now she has to stay in her room because of lack of supplies to move arouund with.

For those with a colostomy but no hernia, do you wear (a) support belt or wrap (b) support underwear (c) ostomy underwear with no support (d) regular underwear? If you wear support underwear, where do you get them? If you wear ostomy underwear, where do you get them? I live in Canada.

I've heard a colostomy output is a less watery, but that's about it. Anyone knowledgeable on this?

Hi, Finishing FOLOX  ( fingers crossed) early August. Hoping to head off on a trip in early September. Any tips re plane travel, changing bags ( still notoriously unpredictable because of chemo) in planes and coping with heat?  Thanks Soc40    

I had a rectal prolapse repair in 2016 at which time my rectum was damaged. I have been going through many procedures and surgeries since then. I had an ileostomy for 3 months while my colon was healing from one of the surgeries. Now my situation is that I no longer have an ostomy but I cannot control my bowels. I have an option of keeping things the way they are or I can elect to have a colostomy. Right now I am wearing depends due to bowel incontinence. I have a decision to make and would really like to get some advise.

I had a colostomy reversal 2 weeks ago after a gastric perforation related to diverticulitis in Oct 2018. It has been a tough recovery but all seems to be improving at this time. At first bathroom trips were 4-6 times per day and has become less frequent now. Staples came out yesterday and wound looks great. Currently on low fiber diet. Eating small frequent meals. Starting to venture out of the house with friends. Can now sleep on my side again. Just wanted to provide some support for anyone that is thinking of having a reversal. I was so...

Hi Guys and Gals .... A friend of mine is the Editor of Tidings, the Colostomy Association's magazine... The magazine represents the interests of those living with a colostomy, those working in the field of stoma care and industries involved in providing stoma care products. The Autumn issue of Tidings will focus on pain and its management - they often have enquiries to their helpline about pain eg rectal pain, phantom pain etc ...... The Editor (Jane) is looking for articles for the magazine from ostomates who have experienced such pa...

Could I please have benefit of experience on stool softeners?  I am taking a new Rx med that is really causing me problems.  I am drinking lots of water but I still need help!  Naturally, I would like something that doesn't create the opposite problem.  Thank you!

I have a question to ask but its not for me its for my friend. I have urostomy and ileostomy , my friend has urostomy and colostomy . He has phoned me for advice  because since yesterday his colostomy bag is empty  yet he is eating as usual. Can anyone relate to this or give some comment . I myself have never had an empty bag. Your replies would be of great importance to me. Thank you Jim

I had an 'emergency' colostomy in May 2010, I was told I had diverticulitis, turns out I had a ruptured appendix causing periotinitis.  I wore my colostomy (or it wore me) for 11 months. I had the reversal in April 2011, they also repaired a fair sized parastomal hernia. Six months later, I still have 'accidents', just when I think it's gas...I have a mess. There is always a urgency when I have to go, so knowing where facilities are is always a top priority.  Carrying extra clothes is a neccesity and going out on a boat...

May sound stupid, but I also had to have my rectum removed/ sewn up.  NOTHING there.  Is this normal?  Further limits the amorous activities of a gay male.

I have quite a collection of hollister supplies that are new and unused.  If interested please send a cell # so I can send photo of products available. Stacy (ycats)

Hello everyone it's me again. I just wanted to share with you all something I tried. Going into my 3rd my bag really 😷 stinks so as I'm going to change it the next day because the adhesive itches so bad I out of the clear blue took the febreeze and sprayed on the back and front and low and behold can you believe it pretty much killed the smell. Have any of you tried this? I'm sitting here now and the bag is not stinking. Wow. Let me know if any one tried this🙂

Hi all,  I was wondering if anyone here is able to sleep on their front with a colostomy? I have been finding my self roll over n middle of night, is it safe, will i damage the stoma?   Thank you

hello, I was wondering if anyone else has experienced the discomfort I have had ever since my colostomy following the discovery of rectum cancer 12 weeks ago,   I am unable to get comfortable sat upright as it feels everything is all being squashed inside. I sometimes also get a tugging feeling at the bottom of my stoma,   Above my stoma is swollen and it feels like I have to hold myself as i get up to support it, I’m sure I’ve a hernia but I’m getting no support from the surgeon or hospital.  I cant see...

Hi ive had a colostomy since i was 4 and im 20 now i have had lots of problems but at the moment its really annoying. Ive developed a hole as if the skin attached to the stomach is coming away and there is the inside wall i can see. It hurts quite a but when cleaning but the nurses say it is fine but its just getting bigger. Has anyone got this or experienced skin pulling from the stoma? Thank you 

Hi, I've had abdo pain after eating for a long time. Since xmas its got a lot worse, I'm living on fortijuices, porridge and plain jacket spuds with no marg, tried a bit of gravy tonight with bread in it and its going mad. Got to have a transit test to confirm consultants opinion that bowel is knackered. Really struggling to cope any ideas, help would be appreciated. Thanks for reading this

My wife has had a reversal but has been finding that even after 4 years she still has to constantly visit the loo , making her very sore , we are unable to go for a walk any distance unless there are public toilets nearby , we cannot go to the theater or cinema , on our last visit to the hospital she was asked if she would like to have a colostomy which we are told she would only have to visit the loo once a day or every other day , it seems there are two types one with a plug or cap and one with a bag , we have to do some research on both...

Thank you to everyone who has already to responded to posts. They have already been a huge help in understanding the differences and what I'm experiencing is normal. My situation was suppose to be a simple non-cancerous mass removal and reconnection. The mass turned out to be from endometriosis which had degraded the colon to the point it could not be reconnected. The colostomy was never part of the potential outcomes. I currently have two challenges I hope someone has a story to share... 1) My fear is the endometriosis will re-attach ...

is colostomy the same as  ostomy?

My surgeon tells me you can't get a reversal after four years. Anyone know how long  you can wait, i didn't know there was a limit.  Mine was done it Dec 2005, he said i'm at a high risk and i have three large hernias too from the surgery, which makes my belly pertrude on the side. I still want to have more information on this and maybe get this done one of these days.  I have Lupus, thats what makes it serious to have the surgery, had a stroke after the first surgery.   Any suggestions, thanks so mu

Had my colostomy reconnected 6 weeks ago after having a bag for 5 months. Everything is close to back to normal. I am so grateful for all of the concerns and prayers.

Hi Everyone, I am one of the silent followers on the site and it is so great to read everyone's blogs even if we don't ever answer.  One thing that has been concerning me for a while is that lots of folks talk about eating or not eating certain foods.  After my surgery the colorectal nurse just said not to eat too many salted peanuts in one go!  But no other diet advise was given.  I don't think I have had too many issues (aside from unladylike amounts of wind in the first few months but my buddy see...

My reversal and hernia surgery is tomorrow, Feb 3rd!  I've been on the clear liquid diet since yesterday at 4:00 so I'm feeling quite hungry about now.  It's funny how food looks and smells so great when you can't have it.  I'm nervous and anxious for tomorrow to come.  I pray all will go well and all of you on this site have helped me with all of your encouragement and information.  I am truly thankful to you all.  I'll post again as soon as I'm able after my surgery and let you ...

I'm over 2 years down the line from my stoma, and still hate "Colin" with a vengence, still smelly, painful and a nuisance, but a few months ago after getting  a bad cold, I sneezed and had terrible pain, but that's sort of normal for me, as I'm a paraplegic, however , since then "Harold" appeared, and now sticks out about 5 inches on top of my horrible fat tummy.  When I eventually showed my GP she told me to see my wonderful stoma nurses at Glan Clwyd Hospital and they confirmed my suspicions, of h...

hello, i was after some advice. im a new patient who had surgery about 3 weeks ago. all was going ok until about a week ago. my skin under the flange/bag is eroded, red raw and blistered. im using mercurachrome to try and hasten the healing process. do barrier films allow the skin underneath to heal or do they add to the problem. im reacting to different brands of products but i think its because my skin is so damaged. my stoma and skin around it is still bleeding from surgery.i have had to change appliances too regularly as i havent been ...

     Hi all,        This is my first post and a bit nervous.      I have a colostomy and urostomy cause of cancer. I'm sure there are others like me and was wondering how frustring it is dealing with them? I've noticed how products are made for one or the other, but not both. Like belts, underwear.. just to name a few. Are there any website made for both? Any help or advice or just to talk about them would be great.

Hello, I am new here and was wondering about flying. I am a paraplegic and have a colostomy. I have traveled before and every time I have this huge fear of my bag filling up and popping open in flight. I have checked with the airlines and they say unless they have so many passengers they do not need to have an isle chair on board and I am unable to get to the bathroom and even if I could it is so small they cannot fit an isle chair into the bathroom. It is so small I do not think I could hop off the chair, get in and change a full bag. I ...

Anyone here have an Illeal conduit? Colostomy?The love of my life broke his neck in 1992. So, 22yrs+ post injury. C5/6 incomplete. He used a condom catheter until 2006. Indwelling catheter placed during emergency surgery to remove kidney stone stuck in right ureter where it connected to bladder in 2006. Woke up from that surgery with incredible burning pain in his bladder that has never subsided. In 2008 he got a suprapubic catheter. Again the burning pain, pressure, and reflux to his kidneys has never subsided. Since getting the suprapubi...

June 6th was a terrible day - I was in a depression that was just horrible.  I came here and asked about having a new colostomy and asked how you all coped.  Your responses helped me tremendously.  Our cases are different but my takeaway was that even with our differences we have much in common.  The questions, the fears, the uncertainty...we all have it.  To know that I was not alone gave me a feeling of security....sort of like being given a pair of cyber warm fuzzy slippers.  Updates:  we have finally...

HELLO Friends, I have had my COLOSTOMY since 2012.  Thank goodness I make sure my SUPPLIES never get too low. My PROBLEM is with the ONLY supply company my insurance uses.  This company is EDGEPARK!  I would ALWAYS place my order, and would receive it within 2 DAYS!!  NOW the last 4 times I have had to make several calls asking "WHERE ARE MY SUPPLIES?" They would inform me that they are waiting for APPROVAL!  My insurance company ALWAYS tells me that it has been APPROVED for ONE YEAR!!!   This last order...

I am now 18 months post colostomy and Dr. Said I am a candidate. I have been reqding Charolttew post, it soumds like you went through qn ordeal! I am unclear about recuperqtion and why it tqke 6 week. Are you bedridden? Weqr diapers all the time? One of my beiggest feqrs is the pain. I qm a wimp. I dont reqlly wqnt to have an ostomy forever but on a good dqy I tw like what the heck? I also thnk about when i age thqt maybe its an advantage insteqd of diqpers. Ive gqined 10 lbs. wqnd hqve to desire to exercise with this thing. Cqn someone te...

Hi all, This is my first post & its a sensitive subject so hope it goes well!! Have had my Colostomy due to Crohn's since 2016 & due to having to have 31 rectal ops it was finally taken out mid 2017 & yes the ostomy is now permanent. Overall it has been trouble free but over the past month or so I have noticed that I have pressure in the rectal area almost constantly & have this overwhelming feeling & need to push as if I was to open my bowels on the toilet...which of cause I can't do. I feel I should talk to my surgeo...

I'm having problems with the miralax,I think it is dehydrating me too much. Having a kidney transplant I need to stay hydrated,and it has always been hard for me to do because i just don't like water or anything else in large amounts. My colostomy doctor and I don't have a great relationship but she is very vauge with answers. I assume I'm supposed to take a dose of Miralax before every meal or snack,and I think it is dehydrating me. I try to drink more water or fluids than before the colostomy but I still end up dehydrated. So I'm wonderi...

Hi  I am interested in hearing from people in Ireland who had colsostomy reversal surgery. Thanks 

Is it normal for your abdomen to cramp and swell, after having no stoma output for over 24 hours?

I've got a permanent colostomy and have also been on medical leave for the last six months. For the last three months, through no effort of my own, i seem to get all of my output at once, in the morning at about 9 AM. Usually this comes in two "bursts" so I empty the bag twice. I'm fairly confident that if i just waited for everything to come out at once i would have a blowout. The reason that this is a concern for me is that 9AM is around the time of my morning commute once i re-start work this coming monday. I'm terrified about having a...

Hello AllWell, I had my colostomy reversed 2+ weeks ago after partial colon resection with colostomy due to ruptured Diverticulitis on Easter Sunday. The first 2-3 days went well with expected pain. That’s when the wheels started to fall off. I developed an Ileus (gi tract not moving causing fluid build-up). My Dr and I discussed not using an NG tube unless necessary (bad choice on my part). By day 3-4 pain was unbearable and I could not sit up, or roll from side to side. It was required to place an NG tube and I puked the entire pro...

Hi folks  I'm sure this topic has been discussed before so bear with me. I got my colostomy on 07/30/20 (rectal cancer). I'm slowly gaining weight and want to nip it before it gets out of control. I'm struggling to find a new way of eating (all my old go-to foods are off limits now) and finding the right food for weight loss. Should I just stick with proteins primarily? Carbs are not my friend. I'm working on gaining back the muscle tone I lost and just bouncing back in general. Any tips/feedback are appreciated!

I also live alone but I keep busy by playing bridge with some wonderful friends. I have had a colostomy for a year and a half. I am now going in to have a morphine pump implanted in my back for three herniated disc. I keep busy and live in a condo. which I own and love. I don't have any pets at this time but I love all of them. Susieq

Hi Everyone, me and my husband are going on holiday on saturday, our last flight was very embarassing, my hubby had a full english breakfast before the flight and all the way home the smell was really bad, a lot of the passengers was complaining thinking the smell was coming from the toilet ( thank god we sat near the front) I thopught I would make some sandwiches to take with us, but not sure what to put in the sandwich that won't give my husband bad wind. Thanks in advance Shakysgirl

I am reading an article regarding Urocolotomy or Wet colostomy.  Has anyone a Wet Colostomy?       

Hi,   does anyone out ther have any experience of urine problems after a colostomy.  I had a bladder fistula removed at the same time and just wondered if anybody also had problems in this.?  The main problem is that it goes absolutely everywhere and I hadn't mentioned this to anybody until this morning when I was moaning to a friend about it, and she used to care for a lady that had the same problem after having the op, so it made me wonder if it was a common problem.  If so, any solutions? &nb...

I am interested in dating. But when is it the right time to tell somebody that u have colonstmy. I just want to know what some people thoughts are or give me some advice. Thanks

I had a colonostmy done in last Sept. but in the last week I have been having bowel movements though the rectum. Being new to this I am wondering if this sometimes happens. Thanks, Hawk

Anyone have to do that? I just started last week and so far, I hate it. It's not difficult to do, I just am grossed out by it and feel dirty during and after doing it.    Any thoughts? Does it get better? Anyone feel that way too?    

 I would like to know if anyone have problems with ballooning of the colostomy bag and if so could you please email me and tell me about your problems and if you have a cure for it? Thanks Myron

Help please awaiting removal of the rectal stump as bleeding continued since permanent colostomy surgery due to severe crohns. Just anxious as been waiting on Urgent list since December 2015 meant to have it yesterday was all gowned up ready then they cancelled me so upset .New date 6/9/17

hi guys i am new to this as just recently got out of the hospital after over a months stay.  I had a hysterectomy and the surgeon punctured my jejunum.  I had my sigmoid colon removed as it was destroyed while sitting in half a gallon of sepsis.  Also removed was a portion of the jejunum.  Is there anyone out there with experience in a reversal with these pieces missing?  The doctor said I needed to wait at least 6 months for a reversal  thank you! jen

Have any of you done Pilates after your ostomy surgery? I am 7 months out from my surgery and am going back to Pilates for the first time today. I have been doing some walking, and some physical therapy, but this will be my first time at Pilates since my surgery. Are there certain movements I should avoid, such as bending and twisting, for fear of dislodging my pouch? Many thanks for any help. 

I had surgery two years ago from diverticulitis i have a colostomy now and I  have colitis does anyone have colitis in rectom caused by having colostomy after diverticulitis surgery.

hi,  I am a new ostomate.   Colostomy done 1/15/19 and my surgeon never did stoma placement markings.  I am now dealing with stoma that points down and I struggle with burning rash around stoma because I have thick output that pancakes and goes under wafer.  Also I am 134 pounds but have had twins and have lost a lot of weight so I have lots of extra skin and crease.   I have been struggling and trying all the different products with no luck.  I saw my surgeon yesterday walking to another room and I said hello...

Hi I had my colostomy in June.  All was going well until last week.  I always make sure I am hydrated as I also have a SPC. I take Laxido/Movicol sachets daily to make sure my stools are soft. For some reason I started with diarrhoea. I had this for 2 days. Since then I’ve not had anything from the stoma. 3 days I have had no output at all from the stoma. I mentioned this to my nurse on Friday and she wasn’t worried as I still making wind noises. Is this a common problem? Thank you 

I had a major bowel surgery a couple of weeks ago, i'm on a wound vac, due to the inscison spliting almost completely open. i am also on a walker, and pretty much bed bound, my stoma was also moved back to the other side. I was given no diet restrictions, is there someone that I need to talk to?

  I am wondering if anyone else has this problem,  I have a colostomy, 2 and 1/2 years ago.   6 hernias,  and  just about every other day I wake up with nausea,   then after up and about it go's away,   is this normal   it dosen't happen every day  maybe 2 or 3 times a week.