Topic Explanation
The forum discussion centers around an 80-year-old individual, JB, who has been managing chronic kidney disease (CKD) and an ileostomy. JB shares their journey, including their reluctance to take medication, their experience with an ileostomy following surgery for a cyst, and their recent diagnosis of CKD. JB discusses their approach to managing CKD through increased water intake and the resulting impact on their sodium levels. They express skepticism about further medical interventions and medications, preferring to manage their condition through lifestyle adjustments.

Advice and Insights

- Hydration and Kidney Health:
- Increased water intake is crucial for individuals with an ileostomy to prevent kidney issues. Dehydration is a common problem for ostomates due to the lack of a colon to absorb water.
- If increasing water intake leads to low sodium levels, consider adding salt to water or using sodium tablets to maintain balance.

- Managing Sodium Levels:
- Low sodium levels can be managed by adding salt to water or consuming salty snacks. This helps maintain the necessary electrolyte balance.
- Some individuals with CKD and an ileostomy take sodium bicarbonate pills to help flush acid from the kidneys and maintain sodium levels.

- Second Opinions:
- Seeking a second opinion from another healthcare professional can be beneficial, especially if the current advice seems counterintuitive or ineffective.

- Alternative Hydration Methods:
- For those who dislike plain water, mixing water with lime cordial and adding salt can make it more palatable while ensuring adequate hydration and sodium intake.

- Personal Experiences:
- Other forum members shared their experiences with managing CKD and an ileostomy, emphasizing the importance of hydration and the challenges of maintaining sodium levels. They also highlighted the benefits of consistent water intake on kidney function without relying on CKD-specific medications.