This topic is about managing foamy ostomy output and the challenges of frequent night-time emptying. The person sharing their experience is recovering from a Crohn’s flare and is dealing with a highly foamy ostomy output, which fills their pouch with foam, liquid, and air every 10–15 minutes. This requires them to empty it 4–5 times an hour, especially at night, causing concerns about leakage or "explosions." They are currently using Imodium and Buscopan to ease cramps, but these do not reduce the foam. They are seeking advice from others who might have similar experiences.
Here are some helpful insights and advice:
1. If you need to empty your pouch at night, do it immediately. This helps you avoid waking up fully and allows you to return to sleep more easily.
2. Foamy output often occurs when there is little solid food passing through. To help thicken or bulk up the stool, try including more of the following foods in your diet:
- BRAT-type foods: bananas, applesauce, rice
- Oatmeal or Cream of Wheat
3. Consider eating a small, binding snack like a banana before bed. Also, make sure to have breakfast, as skipping early meals can lead to morning yellow foam and abdominal discomfort.
4. Review your medications with your doctor. Some medications, including steroids, can affect your output. Discuss any possible adjustments with your healthcare provider.
5. Even while trying to thicken your output, ensure you maintain adequate fluid intake to stay hydrated.
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