This topic is about using sugar to help reduce a swollen or prolapsed stoma. A person experienced a small prolapse after a coughing fit and heard that sprinkling sugar on the stoma might help it shrink enough to be gently pushed back in. They are seeking confirmation or personal experiences with this method.

Here are some helpful insights and advice:

1. Natural reduction of a prolapse:
- Lie flat on a bed, hold the stoma upright toward the ceiling, relax your abdominal muscles, and wait. It might take 20 to 70 minutes for the stoma to retract on its own.
- Keep paper towels or wipes nearby for any watery discharge.
- Gentle abdominal massage can be helpful, but avoid pushing directly on the stoma.

2. Preventive support:
- Wearing a 7-inch elasticated cloth support band, like a belly band or hernia belt, during activities that involve bending, stretching, or lifting can reduce the frequency and length of prolapse episodes.

3. Sugar for swelling (not prolapse):
- A surgeon recommended sprinkling regular table sugar on a swollen stoma to draw out fluid and reduce swelling, making it easier to fit the appliance.
- Use sugar only for temporary swelling, not for a true prolapse. It's best to consult a stoma nurse first.

4. Warm-water trick:
- Rinsing the stoma with warm water during wafer changes can cause the stoma to retract, as experienced by one person.

5. Appliance fit:
- If the stoma is temporarily swollen, cut the baseplate or wafer opening larger instead of trying to force reduction.

6. When to seek medical review:
- If a prolapse is persistent or large (e.g., 5 inches), it may eventually require surgical revision.
- Consult a stoma nurse or surgeon if the prolapse cannot be reduced or if there is a change in color, pain, or bleeding.

7. Managing new widespread pain:
- Consider evaluation for conditions like Chronic Pain Syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, or fibromyalgia, which can be triggered by surgery or stress.
- If your GP is unhelpful, ask for a referral to a pain-management specialist.

8. Chest and back pain warnings:
- In patients with IBD, chest pain can indicate a pulmonary embolism, which requires emergency treatment. Return to A&E/ER if the pain worsens or if there are changes in breathing.

9. Sleep positioning for back/chest pain:
- Sleep on your side in a fetal position or on your back with a pillow under your knees.
- Adjustable beds, such as those with a "zero-gravity" setting, can help reduce nighttime pain and improve sleep quality.