This topic is about someone who has been living with a colostomy for four years due to diverticulitis. Recently, they have been experiencing some troubling issues, including constipation, a swollen stoma, and changes in the skin around the stoma. They also have a new parastomal hernia and are on medication for a rectal fistula or possible Crohn’s disease. They are seeking advice and wondering if others have had similar experiences. Here are some insights and advice shared by others:

1. A sudden change in symptoms like these should be checked by a healthcare professional. It's good that a colonoscopy is already scheduled.

2. If severe constipation was previously resolved in the hospital with irrigation, this might be an option again if deemed necessary by medical staff.

3. One person with similar issues suggests taking laxatives, including MiraLAX, twice daily on a strict schedule to prevent obstructions. They note that when constipated, their stoma also becomes large and swollen.

4. It's important to use laxatives promptly and seek medical advice if there is a drop in output and the stoma becomes enlarged.

5. Sharing updates and experiences in forums can be helpful for others dealing with similar stoma-related issues, such as constipation, hernias, and skin changes.