This topic is about dealing with pain, pressure, and the fear of obstruction after having an ileostomy. The person who shared their experience has been through a lot, including a Hartmann colostomy in 2010 and an ileostomy with rectum removal in 2020. They are now facing severe abdominal and pelvic pressure, nausea, and anxiety about potential bowel or stoma blockages. They are also concerned about the effectiveness of CT scans and bladder scans in detecting these issues. Here are some helpful insights and advice shared by others:

1. Seek urgent medical evaluation:
- It's important to visit the Emergency Department or consult a gastroenterologist or colorectal surgeon if you're experiencing unresolved pain, pressure, or minimal output. These could be signs of a serious obstruction or complication.
- A CT scan with IV contrast is generally considered sufficient for detecting most obstructions, strictures, or other intra-abdominal issues.

2. Recognizing obstruction symptoms:
- Be aware of signs like little or no stoma output or gas, increasing abdominal pain or pressure, distension, relief when lying down, and possible nausea or vomiting.
- Obstructions can be very painful, and delaying care can increase risks.

3. At-home measures for mild symptoms:
- If symptoms are mild and there is still some output, try staying hydrated with a sugared carbonated drink like regular Coca-Cola or a very sweet juice.
- Rest, gentle abdominal massage around the stoma, applying warmth with a heating pad, and walking can help.
- Laxatives like Miralax may be helpful, but only if advised by a clinician and if there is still some output.

4. Mechanical vibration for chronic or recurrent small-bowel obstruction:
- One person found that using a vibrator secured against the abdomen with a wide neoprene belt helped reduce the frequency and severity of obstructions. This method was approved by their gastroenterologist.

5. Bladder investigations and catheter experience:
- Bladder ultrasound or urodynamic studies can assess residual urine and sphincter function, and these tests are usually quick and painless.
- For indwelling Foley catheter insertion, using a local anesthetic gel and mild opioid analgesia can make the process more tolerable. Subsequent exchanges tend to be easier.
- Clean intermittent self-catheterization is an option that many find simpler and more comfortable than maintaining an indwelling catheter.

6. NG tube fears:
- While not directly addressed, it's implied that NG tubes might be necessary if vomiting or severe obstruction occurs. Seeking early medical review can help prevent reaching that stage.