This topic is about someone who had an emergency ileostomy after a severe case of COVID-19. The person had no prior bowel disease, and the surgery was unexpected. They are reaching out to find others who have had similar experiences due to COVID-19. Here are some insights and advice shared by others:
1. The emergency surgery was necessary because COVID caused a major blockage in the colon, and removing it was the only way to save the person's life.
2. The patient now has stage-2 kidney disease, which is believed to be a result of COVID. They have experienced kidney failure twice due to dehydration and need to drink electrolyte solutions regularly, while also monitoring their protein and sugar intake to prevent blockages.
3. Despite being vaccinated, the patient contracted COVID twice. They have a follow-up appointment and plan to ask their surgeon if there have been other cases of COVID-related ostomies.
4. Several people have shared similar experiences of needing emergency ileostomies after COVID, due to complications like colon perforation, ischemia, necrosis, or diverticulitis flare-ups.
5. COVID can affect the gastrointestinal tract, and there are documented cases of intestinal perforation as a rare complication.
6. It's important to obtain complete medical records from all treating facilities to fully understand what happened during the medical emergency.
7. Managing hydration and electrolytes is crucial for those with an ileostomy. Making it a habit to drink and replace fluids with sports or rehydration drinks is recommended.
8. If you notice changes in your stoma when you're ill, such as swelling or darkening, consider using pouches with a larger flange and adding barrier rings to protect the skin until the swelling goes down.
9. Acceptance can be challenging, but focusing on gratitude for survival, understanding that recovery takes time, and adapting to new diet and fluid routines can help make the process easier.
10. When discussing these experiences online, using clear and specific thread titles can help attract others with similar experiences and encourage information sharing.
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