This topic is about someone who recently had ileostomy surgery and is experiencing difficulties with their stoma function, including possible partial blockages. They are seeking advice and insights from others who might have faced similar challenges. Here’s a summary of the advice and insights shared:

- After surgery, the person lived on liquids for two months and gradually introduced soft solids like eggs, avocado, and roasted potatoes. They eat one meal a day, chew thoroughly, and drink a lot of fluids, preferring chicken stock.

- They experience issues where liquids seem to pass through easily, but solids cause symptoms of partial blockages, which are only relieved by drinking a lot of fluids.

- They wake up every night around 2–3 a.m. with no output and have to drink large amounts of fluid to stimulate it.

- They take Reglan (metoclopramide) four times a day to help keep the output moving.

- They are concerned about whether this pattern is normal and if it will be permanent.

Additional questions and information include:

1. They feel constant pressure behind the stoma and can release air or thick output by pressing on the flange.
2. They experience a lot of gas, even when skipping dinner, and wake up with a gas-filled pouch.
3. Their output is inconsistent, with some days having high-volume liquid and other days being very sluggish.
4. Solids from foods like chicken broth, eggs, and coffee remain thick and often need to be pressed out, with eggs appearing in the pouch before the meal is finished.

Advice and insights offered include:

- Seek further medical evaluation, as these symptoms are not typical. Consider getting a second opinion from another colorectal surgeon or a specialized center like the Cleveland Clinic. Request imaging tests to rule out any physical issues like kinks or strictures.

- Consider possible mechanical issues with the stoma, such as it being too short or encircled by muscle or scar tissue, which can cause partial blockages. Ensure the wafer opening is cut to the stoma’s largest diameter to avoid constriction.

- Pressure behind the stoma might indicate a developing parastomal hernia, so have this assessed by a healthcare professional.

- For managing gas, try gentle abdominal massage, knee-to-chest positioning, or warm showers to help release trapped air.

- A very limited, mainly liquid diet can reduce gut motility and worsen thick output. Introduce higher-fiber or naturally laxative foods like orange juice, mango, apple, prunes, bran, or FiberGel. If needed, consider short-term laxatives.

- Consult a dietitian for help with reintroducing food groups in a structured way.

- Seek support from an Enterostomal Therapy (ET) nurse for appliance fitting, stoma assessment, and dietary guidance. Video consultations may be available.

- Utilize resources like the Interim HealthCare wound/ostomy service and the Ostomy food reference chart from the United Ostomy Associations of America.

- Remember that with proper medical evaluation, stoma adjustment, diet modification, and professional support, most people with an ostomy can achieve reliable and comfortable output.