This topic is about a young person who has been living with a colostomy since they were four years old. They are dealing with a challenging issue of persistent rectal mucus buildup, which causes pain, pressure, and a strong odor. This problem has been ongoing for 16 years, and they are seeking advice on how to manage it without undergoing more surgery.

Here are some insights and advice shared by others who have faced similar issues:

1. **Irrigation Options**
- One person found relief by using two modified anal irrigating catheters to dislodge hardened mucus. They directed one catheter toward the end of the anal canal and the other along the sides while squatting in a bathtub.
- Medical professionals often recommend using shorter stoma cones for irrigation because full-length catheters can be risky and have led to bowel perforations in some cases. If you consider this method, it's crucial to proceed with extreme caution and seek proper training beforehand.
- Over time, some have noticed that their mucus changed from thick and dark to clear and runny, eventually stopping the pain.

2. **Control Underlying Inflammation**
- For those whose mucus issues are worsened by active Crohn’s disease, keeping the disease in remission can significantly reduce both the odor and volume of the mucus. Medications like Humira (adalimumab) have been helpful for some in managing these symptoms.

These suggestions aim to provide some relief and management strategies for those experiencing similar challenges with rectal mucus buildup.