This topic is about managing high output from an ileostomy and dealing with dehydration after the removal of a J-pouch. The person sharing their experience had their J-pouch removed eight weeks ago and has been struggling with high ileostomy output, leading to dehydration and multiple hospital visits. They are seeking advice from others who might have faced similar challenges.

Here are some helpful insights and advice:

1. Instead of drinking plain water, try using oral rehydration or electrolyte drinks to maintain the right balance of salts in your body. Some suggested products include Liquid I.V. powder, Pedialyte, Gfit low-sugar sports drink, and Dioralyte. You can also add electrolyte "drop-ins" or tablet additives if you prefer.

2. To help slow down the output and allow your body to absorb fluids and nutrients better, consider using anti-motility drugs like Imodium (loperamide) tablets. It's important to continue with prescribed medications like Lomotil and consult with your surgical or ostomy team about any necessary dose adjustments or additional treatments.

3. To thicken the output, keep using psyllium husk. Milk can also be helpful as it thickens stool while providing fluids and calories.

4. Be mindful of the beverages you consume. It's best to limit or avoid large amounts of plain water, tea, coffee, carbonated drinks, and fruit juice, as they can increase output or worsen dehydration.

5. Keep a close eye on your kidney health. Repeated dehydration episodes can lead to acute kidney injury and potentially chronic kidney disease (CKD). Some people have reported progressing to stage-3 CKD after multiple hospitalizations.

6. Discuss with your medical team whether Short Bowel Syndrome (SBS) might be a factor. SBS often requires aggressive anti-motility therapy and specialized dietary management.

7. Stay connected with experienced ileostomy communities. They can offer ongoing tips and product suggestions, as many people manage similar high-output challenges successfully once they find the right balance of fluids, electrolytes, and medications.