This topic is about a person who was experiencing severe pain after having an ileostomy, and they were trying to figure out whether the pain was due to ureteral stents or something else. Here's a breakdown of the situation and some helpful advice:

- The person was admitted to the hospital with sharp, stabbing pain that got worse with activities like hiccups, coughing, laughing, or when their bladder was full. The pain was located under the rib cage on the same side as the ileostomy.
- They had a history of extensive surgeries for endometriosis, including a total hysterectomy, removal of a bladder mass, removal of a portion of the bowel, and the creation of an ileostomy.
- Hospital staff provided IV morphine and Zofran for pain relief. Doctors initially thought the pain was due to ureteral stents that needed removal, but the patient was concerned it might be related to the ileostomy and worried about potential oversight of a larger issue.

Additional information revealed:
- After advocating for themselves, doctors found that the ureteral stents were infected, and IV antibiotics were started.
- A wound/ostomy nurse offered valuable solutions, resources, and a "goodie bag."
- The patient experienced episodes of tachycardia, leading to an MRI being ordered.
- It was later determined that the tachycardia was due to dehydration, the imaging was clear, and the patient was discharged home.

Here are some pieces of advice and insights from this experience:

1. It's okay to express frustrations; sharing can be therapeutic and helps others understand your situation.
2. Advocate strongly for yourself:
- Clearly describe where and how the pain feels.
- Stress that you don't want anything to be overlooked.
- Refuse to be discharged if the pain isn't improving.
3. Bring a family member or friend to help advocate for you, especially when you're tired or on medication.
4. Establish a respectful dialogue with your doctors, reminding them that you know your body best. Be persistent in seeking answers.
5. If doctors think stents are the cause, the pain should ease quickly once they are removed or treated. If not, insist on further evaluation.
6. Infections in stents are serious, and IV antibiotics are standard treatment. Watch for systemic signs like tachycardia or dehydration.
7. Post-surgical and pelvic procedures can cause referred pain, meaning discomfort near the ostomy might originate from another area.
8. Stay hydrated, as dehydration can lead to tachycardia, especially for those with an ileostomy.