Topic Explanation
The discussion centers around concerns following a recent ostomy surgery. The original poster's husband is passing gas but has not had a bowel movement despite various interventions like stool softeners, laxatives, prune juice, and a suppository via the stoma. The doctor has indicated that everything appears fine, but the lack of bowel movement is causing anxiety and regret for the patient.

Advice and Insights

- Gas Passage as a Positive Sign:
- Multiple participants noted that passing gas is a good sign, indicating some level of intestinal activity.

- Reassurance and Emotional Support:
- Verbal reassurance is important to help the patient cope with anxiety and regret.

- Medical Interventions:
- Suggestions to ask about medications like Reglan to help jump-start the intestines.
- Mention of a tube being used to empty fluid from the stomach in a similar case, which eventually led to a bowel movement.

- Dietary Considerations:
- Eating solid foods like pasta or mashed potatoes, or chewing gum, can help stimulate bowel movements.
- If there is no output, sticking to liquids is recommended, and if there is pain or discomfort, switching to just water is advised.

- Physical Activity:
- Encouragement to get up and walk, as walking can help stimulate bowel movements.

- Medical Follow-Up:
- Importance of having a GI doctor evaluate the situation.
- Mention of X-rays showing no blockage, which is a positive sign.

- Hydration:
- Ensuring the patient is receiving IV fluids to stay hydrated.

- Monitoring and Patience:
- A similar experience where it took over a week for bowel movements to resume, suggesting that patience might be necessary.