This topic is about someone seeking advice on managing a peristomal hernia, which is a complication that can occur around a stoma. The person has been dealing with this hernia for about 18 months, and recently, it has become more problematic. The hernia has doubled in size, the stoma is retracting, bleeding constantly, is extremely painful, and sometimes changes to an off-white color. Here are some pieces of advice and insights shared by others:

1. Seek immediate medical attention. Many people strongly recommend visiting a doctor, surgeon, hospital, or urgent-care facility as soon as possible. It's important not to delay.

2. A change in color to gray or whitish might indicate a compromised blood supply, which requires prompt evaluation by a healthcare professional.

3. Constant bleeding might be due to the appliance opening being too tight. It's suggested to measure the stoma while sitting, as it tends to be largest then due to hernia pressure, and cut the wafer hole about 1/8 inch larger.

4. Until you can see a professional, try following a low-residue, low-fiber diet and drink plenty of fluids. This can help avoid constipation and reduce additional abdominal strain.

5. Hernias often enlarge over time, especially if a support belt isn't used and abdominal strain or pressure isn't minimized. It's noted that about 50% of ostomy patients develop hernias.

6. A surgeon can discuss potential repair options with you.

7. Consider reposting your question in the main Ostomy section of the forum to get more responses, especially from the two ostomy nurses who participate there.