This topic is about the early days following a colostomy surgery, specifically focusing on concerns about watery, dark-yellow stoma output and dietary questions. The person is just five days post-operation and is looking for reassurance and advice during this initial healing phase.

Here are some helpful insights and advice:

1. Healing and Time Frame
- It's common to have watery output right after surgery. The bowel needs time to adjust and can take weeks or even months to settle down.
- Be patient with your recovery. Changes will happen gradually as the swelling decreases and your diet becomes more regular.

2. Diet in the First Two Weeks
- Stick to soft foods and avoid raw fruits and vegetables, as well as skins from potatoes, tomatoes, peppers, onions, nuts, seeds, corn, and pickles until you are more healed.
- Introduce new foods slowly and in small amounts, making sure to chew thoroughly.
- Stay well-hydrated and add a bit of salt to your diet daily to help with sodium loss through the stoma.

3. After Initial Healing
- Most people with a colostomy can eventually return to a regular diet. Keep a diary to track how different foods affect your output.

4. Medication and Thickening Agents
- Some people use medications like loperamide or stool thickeners once they are eating normally. It's important to discuss this with your surgeon, especially if you have dysmotility.
- Chewing gum might help stimulate gut activity in the early days.
- Metoclopramide is sometimes used for motility or nausea but is usually short-term due to potential side effects.

5. Irrigation
- Colostomy irrigation can help with predictable bowel emptying and reduce pouch wear. It might be worth trying again once you have healed, though it doesn't work for everyone.

6. Stoma Supplies and Leak Prevention
- Products like flange extenders, Brava powder and spray, and Hollister CeraRings can help prevent leaks and protect your skin.
- Brava cleansing wipes can soothe sore skin.
- Delivery companies may offer complimentary mattress protectors and bed-change sheets.
- In the UK, a Medical Exemption Card can cover all stoma supplies and prescriptions for five years.

7. Long-term Possibilities
- If colonic motility remains an issue, some people may switch from a colostomy to an ileostomy, which might work more reliably.
- There are drugs to enhance peristalsis, but they are often for short-term use. Discuss these options with your healthcare provider.

8. Emotional Support
- Recovery is a personal journey, and many people find their quality of life improves significantly after the adjustment period. It's important to seek ongoing support from peers and professionals.