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Apr 28, 2023

Nighttime Indigestion with Ileostomy - Positional Issue?

This topic is about dealing with nighttime indigestion after an ileostomy, particularly when lying flat in bed. The person experiencing this issue is symptom-free during the day, and meals don't seem to be the cause. The question is whether body position might be contributing to the problem, and what can be done to alleviate it. Here are some helpful suggestions and insights:

1. Check electrolyte status and hydration. After an ileostomy, there can be a loss of sodium and calcium, which help buffer stomach acid. It's a good idea to have a doctor or clinical dietitian run a complete chemistry panel. Make sure to balance electrolyte drinks with equal water intake.

2. Try using Gaviscon. Chew it until it becomes foamy before swallowing. This creates a barrier that sits on top of stomach acid, helping to block reflux. It works differently from Tums.

3. Avoid lying down soon after eating. It's beneficial to stay upright for a while after the evening meal.

4. Consider bedtime positioning tips:
- Start the night propped up on two pillows, then switch to one pillow when feeling sleepy.
- Lying on the right side might help with gastric emptying for some people.
- Others find relief by lying on the left side.

5. Look into medication adjustments:
- If standard Pepcid isn't enough, consider Pepcid Complete, which combines famotidine with an antacid.
- Some find success by taking 10–20 mg of Pepcid with dinner and avoiding any food or drink afterward, except for a sip of water with bedtime medication.

6. Be aware of increased belching after an ileostomy. This is common, and while dairy intake can contribute, it's usually harmless. It's often better to let it out than to have it come out through the stoma.
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