This topic is about dealing with gas discomfort in the early days after getting a new loop ileostomy. If you're experiencing abdominal rumbling and pressure but can't seem to release gas, you're not alone. Here are some helpful insights and advice to ease your discomfort:
1. In the early days after surgery, your stoma will be quite swollen. It's best to stick to soft, easy-to-digest foods with mushy textures. Gradually introduce solid foods to avoid blockages as your digestive system adjusts.
2. It's normal to feel abdominal rumbling and strange gas sensations as your intestines adapt to their new route. These symptoms usually settle down on their own within a few weeks.
3. After healing, many people with an ileostomy report passing only mucus through the rectum, not gas. However, those with loop ileostomies might still experience occasional small gas releases, often called "fartlettes." Everyone's experience is different.
4. If you notice significant rectal gas or anything more than mucus, it's important to check with your surgeon or stoma nurse to ensure everything is functioning correctly.
5. If you're dealing with trapped rectal gas or mucus, consider these options, but consult your clinician first:
- Glycerin suppositories can help clear retained mucus or gas.
- A small-volume saline enema might be recommended to evacuate the rectal stump.
6. Here are some reminders and coping tips:
- Mentally remind yourself that the rectum is largely disconnected to prevent accidental leakage.
- Gentle repositioning, like lying on your left side with knees bent, can help gas move to the stoma and exit through the pouch.
These tips can help you manage the discomfort and adjust to your new loop ileostomy.
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