This topic is about managing persistent watery output from an ileostomy and dealing with recent weight loss. The person has had an ileostomy for a long time and is experiencing some challenges with their output and weight. Here are some helpful insights and advice that might be useful:
1. The person has been dealing with a watery output from their ileostomy despite not changing their diet. They are taking Imodium and have added Pepto-Bismol to help manage this.
2. They are eating white rice and high-protein Ensure to try to thicken the output and increase their calorie and protein intake.
3. Due to adhesions and a hernia, they need to avoid most fiber, as it can cause blockages. They are cautious about meal sizes and fiber intake.
4. They are wondering if an infection could be causing the watery output and are looking for over-the-counter products or foods that might help slow or calm the discharge.
5. Some foods that have been recommended to help thicken the output include marshmallows, bananas, plain potatoes or mashed potatoes, cheese, smooth peanut butter, farina or cream of wheat, and oatmeal.
6. Psyllium husk or fiber, like Metamucil, can be used in small, well-hydrated doses to form a gel and slow the output, even though it is usually marketed for constipation.
7. It's important to be patient and try different textures, as the thickness of the output can vary depending on what and how much fiber is tolerated.
8. Age-related factors such as muscle-mass loss and metabolic changes can make weight loss easier, so it's important to monitor calorie and protein intake. Smooth blended soups and nutrient-dense oral supplements like Ensure can be helpful.
9. If weight loss continues or nutritional status declines, it might be a good idea to seek a dietitian or medical review, even if it's just a brief appointment, to check for infection, malabsorption, or the need for medication adjustment.
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