This topic is about dealing with a fibrous food obstruction at the stoma, which can happen after surgery. The person in this situation had recently undergone a second surgery to enlarge their stoma opening. They ate some well-cooked broccoli but accidentally swallowed a tough stem segment without chewing it thoroughly. While part of the stem passed during a shower, some of it remained lodged near the stoma. The person is not experiencing significant pain and can feel the piece trying to move out. They are using external heat and drinking hot tea to help it along, hoping to avoid a trip to the emergency room.

Here are some helpful tips and advice for managing such a situation:

1. Drink plenty of fluids, especially warm ones like tea or coffee, to help stimulate output and soften the obstruction.

2. Encourage a strong bowel movement to push the fragment through. Some people suggest consuming foods or drinks that reliably cause diarrhea, but be careful to avoid self-injury.

3. Gently massage the abdomen or stoma area to help release a partial blockage.

4. Consider using osmotic laxatives that are safe for ostomy patients and non-irritating, such as:
- Restorolax (PEG 3350)
- Lax-a Day (PEG 3350), which is often cheaper at Walmart
- The Costa Rican equivalent, "Happy Lax"

5. Make the output more slippery by ingesting lubricants like flaxseed oil or mineral oil.

6. Refer to professional guidance on ileostomy blockages, such as the "Ileostomy Blockage" fact sheet from the American Ostomy Association.

7. If you experience signs of a complete blockage, such as bloating or no output, consult a doctor. Some clinicians may gently probe with a Q-tip, but self-instrumentation is not recommended without medical advice.