This topic is about a person whose husband is experiencing a persistent stinging sensation inside his ileostomy, especially at night, whenever there is output. This has been happening since he started chemotherapy, and they are seeking advice on possible causes and relief methods. Here are some insights and suggestions shared by others:
1. The surgeon suggested that the output might be very acidic, and increasing dietary fiber could help.
2. Although a stoma itself doesn't have pain nerves, the pain might be coming from the intestine just inside or below the stoma. It's important to have this evaluated by a professional.
3. After surgery, the small intestine might sting as it adapts to its new position. In some cases, this sensation disappears by the 7th or 8th week post-surgery.
4. Some people with ostomies experience brief, infrequent stings when the stoma is active. These stings last only a few seconds and are generally harmless.
5. Chemotherapy can contribute to stinging sensations. For instance, Bevacizumab has been associated with stinging inside the stoma, hypersensitive skin around the stoma, and itching. Relief methods have included physician-prescribed pain medication and using a cooling gel patch over the wafer area.
6. To manage chemo-induced acidity and thick output, one oncologist recommended a daily dose of Miralax to keep the effluent at a "toothpaste" consistency, which helped reduce discomfort.
7. Community members are interested in follow-up reports on any dietary changes, such as adding fiber, or other measures that prove helpful or ineffective, so others facing similar issues can benefit from the shared experiences.
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