Topic Explanation:
Gemini, a new ostomate, is struggling with stoma function after ileostomy surgery. She has been experiencing partial blockages, difficulty with solid food, and inconsistent output, and is seeking advice on whether her experiences are normal.
Advice and Insights:
- It is not normal to experience partial blockages and difficulty with solid food intake after ileostomy surgery.
- Seeking advice from a new colo-rectal surgeon or getting a second opinion is recommended.
- Consider investigating anatomical features that may be causing the issues, such as abdominal wall muscles, kinks in the small intestine, or scar tissue.
- Consult with a surgeon or regular doctor to potentially undergo a CT scan with contrast to look for kinks or strictures in the bowel.
- Pressure behind the stoma may indicate a thick bit of output passing through, but it could also be a sign of a hernia or bowel obstruction, requiring follow-up with a healthcare provider.
- The size of the stoma and the hole for the wafer should be appropriate to allow proper waste voiding, and consulting with an Enterostomal Therapy nurse is recommended.
- If the situation does not improve, seeking out a doctor experienced with ostomies for testing and radiology to verify the physical condition is advised.
- Dietary adjustments, such as consuming fresh fruit, prunes, fiber, and avoiding binding foods like eggs and bananas, may help regulate bowel movements.
Note: Some replies contained off-topic or non-contributory content and were omitted.
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