The topic at hand is about whether it's safe to take an ice bath with a 3-month-old stoma. Here are some insights and advice shared by others who have experience with stomas and cold-water exposure:
1. Safety of the stoma itself:
- People who have tried cold-water or ice baths, including someone with a stoma for 44 years, reported no issues related to the stoma.
- The cold might cause the stoma to temporarily retract or become inactive, but this is harmless and will reverse once warmed.
- One person even placed an ice cube directly on an enlarged stoma, and it melted quickly without causing any changes, suggesting that brief cold exposure is generally tolerated.
2. Appliance and barrier considerations:
- The main concern is how long the adhesive barrier will remain secure in near-freezing water.
- It's recommended to limit the time spent submerged, bring a spare barrier or full pouching system, and check the seal immediately after getting out.
- If the pouch is well-sealed before immersion, most believe it will remain watertight.
3. Medical guidance:
- Many suggest consulting with a surgeon, ostomy nurse, or doctor before attempting an ice bath, especially with a relatively new stoma.
4. General opinions and cautions:
- Some people simply dislike or would never choose an ice bath, regardless of having a stoma.
- Others recognize ice baths as a trend for muscle recovery and inflammation reduction and encourage trying it if medical approval is obtained.
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