This topic is about managing a high-output, watery ileostomy while working. The person has been living with an ileostomy for many years and is looking for practical strategies to manage their condition so they can return to work without frequent interruptions to empty their pouch. Here are some helpful tips and insights:

1. Medication timing and choice:
- Take Lomotil (2 tablets) first thing in the morning, at least 30 minutes before eating, for the best effect.
- Use Imodium or Amodium AD (loperamide) tablets: 1 tablet after each emptying, or 3 tablets when output loosens; this usually thickens output within hours.
- Consider over-the-counter acetaminophen with codeine (e.g., Tylenol #1/T1): 3 tablets in the morning can reduce output for most of the day. Use cautiously to avoid over-sedation or constipation.

2. Diet adjustment to reduce volume and water content:
- Identify and temporarily remove possible trigger foods for 6 weeks, such as dairy, sugar, coffee, wheat/gluten, corn, soy, tomatoes, and potatoes. Reintroduce one food every 4 days and watch for increased output.
- Limit or avoid high-gas or laxative foods like eggs, chocolate, and many vegetables, especially before work.
- Time higher-fiber or gas-producing foods (like salad/vegetables) for lunch or after work so activity peaks when you’re near home.
- Eat supper early (4–5 pm) and avoid late-night snacks if the next day is busy; this may give a longer “quiet” period the following morning.
- Chew thoroughly and sip liquids rather than using straws to minimize swallowed air.

3. Enzyme, probiotic, and antifungal support:
- Consider broad-spectrum digestive enzymes with each meal if you suspect malabsorption or enzyme insufficiency.
- A rotating monthly antifungal regimen plus probiotics can help if yeast or fungal overgrowth is contributing to high output.

4. Practical work-day habits:
- Empty your pouch whenever you urinate to combine trips and draw less attention.
- Restrict overall intake slightly during long meetings or travel and empty right before they start.
- If frequency remains high, start with half-day shifts and build tolerance.
- Keep a sense of humor; most colleagues don’t notice or question extra restroom visits.

5. Mind-set and confidence:
- Many ostomates, including paramedics, nurses, construction workers, and office staff, report successfully working full-time by tailoring their diet, medications, and routine. Focusing on ability rather than bathroom frequency helps maintain confidence.