About 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 for a long time, and it went undiagnosed, with my first bout in August of 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 anyone here...

Hello, I started the irrigation process early this morning. I had everything that I needed with me, but for one strange reason or another, it did not respond. I placed the cone in my stoma and lo and behold, nothing happened. 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, only 1.5 liters. I am hoping that this model will wo...

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 ha...

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...

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....

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 appr...

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 gastroente...

Hi all, I'm new to this site. I'm here trying to get other people's experiences that might be similar to my mom's. My mom is 78 and has been living with a colostomy bag for about six months now as a result of having a perforation in the distal sigmoid colon. We are discussing the possibility of reversing the bag. We just met with a colon and rectal surgeon to get a second opinion and she advise...

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 supposed to take her to a private room to be "pat down". Has anyone else flown recently and received these cards and do they work when needed?

She is also scared o...

So I am new, just had surgery last week and been feeling down. Doctor said there is a good chance of being reverse so that made me hopeful. Thing I dislike is wearing a bag and grossed it is. And how my bf is now support. 

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 w...

Before my ostomy issues showed up I expected to live near to my parent's ages when they died. They were in their upper nineties. If I do not have any new ostomy issues should my expectations remain the same? Insurance Companies are saying that people are going to live longer. From what I see on the news I am not sure. Entertainers, politicians, sport stars and other VIP type people that make th...

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 ...

When I was 20, I inherited a rare neuromuscular disorder. The nerves overstimulate otherwise healthy bowels and cause 12-25 BMs every day, 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 minutes just to have one BM. I also have frequent painful cramps ...

Ok! A bit of positivity here.. I've booked a trip to Italy for a week.. but it's the first time I've been on holiday since surgery.. what happens when they do a search on me and they feel the bag?? Just don't want them thinking I have a bomb on me etc :/ Anyone had any situations like this?? How do they tend to deal with it or will it just show up on the x-ray scanners and they are trained to r...

Since my January 3 surgery resulting in a colostomy, my stoma nurses and I have been on a constant search for the right gear for me. My stoma, right from day one, has been lousy. It has a large overhang of thick flesh (like a canopy) and when I sit down, it retracts.



I started out with Hollister two-piece convex with a ring but had leaks. I also tried Hollister two-piece with the smaller base p...

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

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 currentl...

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 stubbornness while I somehow decided that intense pain would just go away...even though the pain got to the point where I had littl...

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 k...

Everything I read says to 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, I 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 I thought they would be good for a cruise I'm going on in 16 months. I saw them somewhere but can no longer find the site. Thank you.

Has anyone had a colostomy because you couldn't expel stool through the ano-rectal passage due to your pelvic floor muscles contracting rather than relaxing when you wanted to poop?  If so, has it worked out for you?  Any challenges or complications?  Did you get it reversed at some point or do you hope to get it reversed?  What are you doing to see if you can reverse it? I know it's a lot ...

I  am new to this. Just two weeks out from surgery, I have a stoma located midline(above my belly button, between the rib cage). I am a jeans -tee shirt type of gal, and I am having a hard time with finding any pants to wear that look like they might work. I don't want the stoma to be blocked, or squeeze the bag so it won't fill properly. Does anyone have any suggestions for this? Please let m...

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 ...

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

I'm 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 and downs, and don't do anything? At the rate I'm going I just wonder if it's all worth it. Wow, I'm 20 months in already. May i have your thoughts?

 

Also, what is the difference between a colostomy and an ileostomy?

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 l...

Hello I am new to this, I had my surgery for my colostomy on Monday 20/06/2022 I am still learning & everyday is another step closer to recovering. 
One of the main reason I had too have a colostomy is colonic dysmortality, my bowel does not contract, I have no perastalsis meaning the waste cannot be removed it just stays in my colon, after various tests gruelling treatment a the only thing lef...

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...

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 h...

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 questions in order to record my answers and pass them down to my professor.

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 fre...

Hi, everyone - I have a question. Do those who have had their ostomies for more than 2 years go through stages in terms of their 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 it well. I was using a Convatec pouch. Then, in...

So I am presented with changing my colostomy to ileotomy due to chronic constipation and obstruction issues from that. What are the pros and cons to having an ileostomy over just a revision to colostomy.

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...

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 ...

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 !! �...

Hello everyone.

I'm trying to cut an extremely 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 about 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 try...

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 want to move to irrigation. My question is what if you have diarrhea? The other day i had 4 outputs into my colostomy bag over 2 hours. I noticed what i ate for dinner was in the last output, well i noticed the fruit. All 4 outputs were runny not like my normal output that is more solid. 

what do you do if this happens and all you have is a stoma cap? 

Was wondering if anyone developed a parastomal hernia after a colostomy surgery. Would really appreciate comments/answers to the following:

Were there any bothersome symptoms such as pain at the stoma, tightness and pressure around it, bloating and obstruction of stool or gas? Any serious complications for example strangulation? How did you deal with them? Did you need to have surgery to r...

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 a...

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 cann...

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 worse. I have eliminated sodas, wheat, milk, and several other things from my diet to try and help...

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 ho...

Two months have passed since my colostomy surgery, which was necessary after five months of being unable to eliminate due to what was ultimately determined to be a problem with my sigmoid colon. I needed a colon cleanser twice a day just to eliminate, which caused drastic weight loss. Some days are good and I have good eliminations, but other times, like right now, I feel blocked, bloated, and ...

Hi everyone,

I am a US expat who has lived for the past 14 years in a developing "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 diverticulitis. I am a 37-year-old male.

I have no other known health problems besides...

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 indefinitely because of the coronavirus! I got my surgery just in time; otherwis...

Hi Guys

Thanks for all of the info you all give to others!

I had diverticulitis which ruptured my colon back in April 2020. I had a foot of my colon removed 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 ho...

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 in August 2013. I was a jeans man, tall and 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. Currently, I only wear elastic waist chinos or sweatpants. 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 respond so fingers crossed. I work with a colorectal sur...

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 believing I was going to be okay, b...

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 broke my right arm and need advice on changing my one piece bag.  I am right handed. i've had a colostomy since 2017. thank you for your help.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hi everyone! I have a question, hopefully someone can help me. I use a Hollister bag with a filter. This may be TMI, but even after I empty my bag, I feel like I still smell like poop. I use deodorant in my bag, and I've tried three different kinds. Is there a bag out there that covers the odor?

I've personally tried a few different ones.  Overall I think we can agree the most important part is a dependable, strong, lasting, seal.  The last couple brands (can't remember) I tried, came off after a little bit of exercise or a solid day of running around.  I now use coloplast and their seal seems to last the longest but still not reliable enough.  Find myself constantly pushing in it ...

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, ...

Is there such a thing as an ostomy diet?
I have barely had any output from my colostomy in at least a month, and I have absolutely no appetite.
Last year, I was in the hospital with what they thought was a partial small bowel obstruction.
My "diet" has been a small amount of baby oatmeal and some coffee for breakfast, maybe a cup of soup for lunch, and a small amount of yogurt and jars of baby fru...

Hello. New to the forum and new to colostomy living. I had lifesaving colostomy surgery March 2022 with 18 days in hospital.

 I woke up this morning with extreme fatigue. I've been tired off and on since surgery. It seems like about the time I start feeling like I'm getting my strength back, I will have what I call “a fatigue day”. Is this normal to kind of bounce back and forth?

I have ...

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.

 

 

 

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

I recently got my stoma I was told it was goning to take trial and error to understand. I personally hate ballooning the vents don't work right so this morning I cut a small whole at the very top because it drains down… you not suppose to let get full in anyway and they have odor blocking products that u can put In your bag. If this technique allows not to balloon I resolved my ballooning iss...

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 b...

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 s...

     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 t...

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 colo...

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!!!

Stage 4 colon patient here, with mets to lungs, liver, and nodes. I am a 59-year-old who had an original resection resulting in an ileostomy. I wanted the bag gone, so 8 months later I had a reversal. It has been a total disaster with incontinence, pain, and burning. I am having a colostomy placed in 3 days and wondering about eating habits with a colostomy, as all I seem to see are ileostomy c...

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 s...

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 t...

     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

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)

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!!

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 surger...

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 ...

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...

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 advice on not having any sign of output, and I received several encouraging replies. Thanks. And yes, output did begin a couple of days after. The other post wa...

My colostomy is 8days old! 
i Keep getting a lot of pressure in my stomach & Mona (stoma name) is very very windy! I am taking 3 laxido drinks a day as I suffer from slow transit?? Just wondering if anyone else has had this?

The only thing mona has produced is yellow liquid even though I have started adding some carbs back into my diet!

Hello, 

I've had my colostomy for about three months and I'm still searching for what feels like it works for me. Here is what I know. I like a two piece system and I have to have convexity.  Now the sticky-poo issues. I'm having issues with pancaking almost all the time. I've tried lubricants, covering the filter, and trying not to have a waistband over my stoma. But given the location of m...

Hello friends

I was just wondering if anyone else has a inney stoma? My colostomy stoma is an inney as my surgeon put it. I'm doing good so far with it. But just wanted to know if anyone else has the same as me.

I had a colostomy since birth from Hirschsprung's disease which was made permanent and in 2014 we noticed it started to retract and pull away from the skin... I just recently saw a colorectal surgeon and it looks like surgery is the only option after all the products used in the past that was a failure. 

Can I ask if anybody has had a refashion surgery as this will be my first of my knowledge...

  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 fro...

Hi there, I have responded to two mates with questions on this subject so far. All I can say is I had mine done on July 1, 2009. I had the takedown on the colostomy, 2 hernias, and what my surgeon said was a 'tummy tuck'. He did extensive surgery on me.

I was in the hospital for 5 days until they were sure there were bowel sounds. After I got home, the first few weeks were not the best. Not a...

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...

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.

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.

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 prett...

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 colost...

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 th...

Hi, I've had a colostomy since I was 4 and I'm 20 now. I have had lots of problems, but at the moment it's really annoying. I've 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 bit when cleaning, but the nurses say it is fine, but it's just getting bigger. Has anyone got this or experienced skin pulling from the sto...

Hello all. 41-year-old male with rectal cancer surgery. The surgery was a huge success and I'm doing preventative chemotherapy this week for four and a half months.

I just have a question about output. I've been doing a stool softener every day, a little Miralax every day (as recommended), and my output is still very irregular. I may go two or two and a half days and then have quite a bit of o...

Greetings,

I'm relatively new to my Urostomy, so I'm doing a lot of research on appliances, reviews, how-to's, YouTubes, etc. I am having a beef with how the word 'Ostomy' is thrown around. From what I understand, there are basically 3 types of Ostomies (Colostomy, Ileostomy, and Urostomy). When I find an article or YouTube, etc., they use the 'Ostomy' term in the title, and it almost always is...

Hi all! I have had a colostomy for nearly 5 years due to complications from rectal cancer treatment. I have been doing irrigation almost exclusively since then. Recently, a couple of my doctors have asked me about trying to reconnect my bowel again. Most of my rectum was removed in the initial surgery. Any thoughts or experiences would be appreciated. Thank you, Clint

What says the literature about having a couple of drinks of whiskey?

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!

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 par...

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, but it turns out I had a ruptured appendix causing peritonitis. I wore my colostomy (or it wore me) for 11 months. I had the reversal in April 2011, and they also repaired a fairly sized parastomal hernia. Six months later, I still have 'accidents'. Just when I think it's gas, I have a mess. There is always an urgency ...

So I went to a doctor that sounded confident he can reverse my colostomy, but he would have to give me an ileostomy for a min of about 6 weeks, then reverse that. Has anyone else gone through this or know someone who did? What differences are there between a colostomy and an ileostomy? I know I e is large bowel and I e small, but that is about it at this point. Does this usually work to get whe...

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 an...

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

Hi,  I had my transverse colostomy surgery 3 weeks ago following complications and sepsis from an initial bowel resection for a cancer diagnosis. I've noticed that my stoma is retracted as the skin around it has dipped instead of remaining curved like the other side of my abdomen. I find it more difficult to position my bag correctly because of this ( I use a salts convex) and wondered if anyo...

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...

Hello All
Well, I had my colostomy reversed 2+ weeks ago after a 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). ...

Question.

Is it best to use one? What brand is best

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

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 ...

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 ...

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, that...

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 do...

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'm over 2 years down the line from my stoma, and still hate "Colin" with a vengeance, 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...

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 becau...

     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 o...

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...

I have an inverted stoma on my  colostomy  for diverticulitis (though previously I had zero symptoms and clean colonoscopies ) The stoma is at the very top of the small stoma  hole, and slightly under the edge of the skin.  Output has to ooze its way from underneath skin and over the top to  make its way out. Creates a  BIG PANCAKE always.  If the output is thick, it shoves under the waf...

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 feel...

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 wa...

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...

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 f...

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...

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...

Hi folks,

I'm sure this topic has been discussed before, so bear with me. I got my colostomy on 07/30/20 (due to 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...

I'm a fairly new ostomate and have been practicing a lot with changing my bags. I've been using Hollister one piece bags for about 4-5 months but I have a hernia which makes the adhesive wrinkle and it doesn't last as long as I would like. I tried using a sample of the convex Sensura bag but it already leaked after the first day. Looking for recommendations about which bags seem to be the best....

Hi, I have a colonoscopy after beating stage 4 rectal cancer however my bladder does not function due to radiotherapy damage and im on the waiting list for my only option of a small hole under my existing stoma for my pee to come out. Its called a double barrel wet colostomy. I cant find anyone in the world that has this and wondered if anyone here has it? There has only ever been 20 of these o...

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 ...

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 ...

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 colostomy done last September but in the last week I have been having bowel movements through the rectum. Being new to that, 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...

What can I take for indigestion with the colostomy?

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. 

Hi 

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

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 struggli...

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 F...

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.

 

I am new, just 2 weeks in, and my colostomy bag seems to leak at night. I have an incision right next to it.

I am using Convatec with a skin barrier and powder by the area which is red. I am also using Eco Seal. I have an innie stoma. I dry off and wait until it's dry before setting up my bag with a wafer and Eco Seal. I have a belt that connects to the bag. I am at a loss and can't sleep becau...

Had a colostomy 10 months for rectal dysfunction (no IBD). But just works like...crap. I'm sick all the time and ended up with hernia.

Doc wants to use same location but switch to ileostomy? Also, due to hernia, might have to switch sides.

Really hate to give up the convenience of the colostomy, virtually zero maintenance. Concerned about the added issues of an ileostomy.

Hello everyone! This is my first post and I hope I can get some helpful answers for a question I have. Just tonight before bed, I have been having looser stool than usual. My bag fills up pretty fast with this. I have always had applesauce texture until now. Does anyone know why this is happening now? And to see if it helps I took an immodium like I would with my ileostomy. All of this is a lon...

Hello I have a bunch of colostomy supplies. I am looking to sell some of them as 2 of the boxes I have were not the right product and I have a large amount of the right product that I can sell. The only down fall is that they are all flanges. I have 2 boxes of Hollister/Ceraplus flanges 11203( 1 box has 4 flanges as I did not notice they were the wrong ones until I tried to line up my cut out f...

Hey everyone, I haven’t posted in a while, but a lot has happened since my last post. I’ve had a surgery to remove a colorectal cancer tumor that was larger and more extensive than they thought, resulting in a much longer and intense recovery than was originally anticipated. 

During this surgery they also closed my ileostomy that I’d had for 4 months, and opened up a colostomy due to the ...

Did anyone have had to use laxatives daily since having their colostomy months or years ago? I had my colostomy 9 months ago and have had to take Miralax every day to have bowel movements. I don't like it. Any suggestions as to how I can wean off this dependence? Thanks.