This topic is about a parent who is concerned about their son, who had a colostomy two months ago. The boy has been passing very hard, dark-brown, walnut-sized masses through the anus, which are painful and resemble stool in color and odor. This is different from the usual clear or white mucus that can sometimes be passed after an ostomy. The parent is worried about potential complications like tearing or infection and is seeking advice on whether this is normal and how to prevent it.

Here are some helpful insights and advice:

1. If your current doctor seems unconcerned about your worries, it might be a good idea to seek a second medical opinion for peace of mind.

2. It's possible for hardened mucus to build up in the rectum, turning brown and resembling stool in both appearance and smell. This can be painful and difficult to pass, and it can happen with both colostomies and ileostomies.

3. A gentle enema or saline rinse is often suggested to help with trapped mucus. Many healthcare providers recommend this if there is discomfort or a blockage. It's important to confirm the suitability and proper technique with a qualified healthcare professional.

4. Some people with ostomies have reported passing similar hard "mucus balls" once or twice early in their recovery. Doctors have often reassured them that this is normal and that the issue usually resolves on its own.