Topic Explanation
The forum discussion revolves around managing sudden liquid output in individuals with ostomies. The original poster, Lee, has been experiencing a shift from thick to liquid output over the past week or two and is seeking advice on how to manage this change. Lee has already tried common remedies like Imodium, marshmallows, and pumpkin without success.
Advice and Insights
1. Dietary Adjustments:
- Peanut Butter: Suggested as an effective thickening agent.
- Pasta and Bread: Initially effective for some, but may lose effectiveness over time unless consumed exclusively.
- Psyllium: Adding a spoonful to meals like cereal, soups, yogurt, or ice cream can help achieve consistent thick output.
2. Medical Consultation:
- Doctor Visit: If experiencing frequent, very watery stools, it is advisable to consult a doctor to rule out underlying conditions.
- Infectious Causes: Conditions like CMV or C Diff should be considered and tested for by a healthcare professional.
3. Potential Causes:
- Dietary Triggers: Milk products and colas can cause loose stools.
- Medications and Vitamins: Review any current medications or vitamins as they might contribute to loose stools.
4. Personal Experiences:
- Inconsistency: It is common for output consistency to vary without a clear reason.
- Advantages of Loose Output: Some find that loose output can make the bag easier to clean and empty.
5. Monitoring Output:
- Volume Changes: Significant changes in output volume, such as a drop from 1,500-1,800cc to 450cc, can occur and might not always indicate a problem.
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