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Jun 15, 2025

Swallowed a Small Gummy by Accident - Should I Be Worried?

This topic is about someone who, two months after having an ileostomy, accidentally swallowed a small sour gummy and is worried it might cause an intestinal blockage. Here are some helpful insights and advice shared by others:

1. General reassurance:
- Many people with long-term ileostomies have passed larger or un-chewed items like gummy bears, hard candy, pills, or even half an olive without any issues. A pea-sized gummy is unlikely to cause a blockage.
- Gelatin candies often soften or dissolve in the stomach and small bowel, and many people never see them in their pouch.
- If you are not experiencing pain, are producing output, and are not bloated, it is likely fine. A true blockage is usually very painful.

2. When to seek help:
- Since you are only two months post-op, contact your stoma nurse or surgeon if you feel uncomfortable, have cramping, no output, or severe pain.
- Getting early professional reassurance can help ease your mind.

3. Practical tips:
- Drink plenty of fluids; hot coffee, tea, or a fizzy drink like Coke can help break down sticky sweets.
- Sit back, relax, and wait a few hours—most people see (or don’t see) the evidence in the bag soon.
- Remember to chew your food well; "chew, chew, chew" is the best way to prevent blockages.
- If concerned, monitor your output for unusual lumps or a reduction in flow.

4. Longer-term diet guidance from experienced ileostomates:
- Right after surgery, stick to softer, low-fiber foods and introduce new items slowly; your stoma will gradually adapt to larger pieces.
- Problem foods vary for each person; some have had issues with quinoa, couscous, rice-broccoli-cheese mixes, tomato or strawberry seeds, apple skin, pizza toppings, and raisins.
- Peel or core fruits, cut foods into small pieces, and introduce fibrous or seedy items cautiously.
- Carbonated drinks have helped some people clear minor slow-downs, but persistent blockage symptoms need medical attention.

5. Medication note:
- Large tablets may pass undissolved; some doctors recommend switching to gummy or liquid formulations for better absorption.

6. Humor and support:
- Several people offer light-hearted encouragement, saying things like "Eat another one," "Chill with a beer or chocolate," and "Your stoma will spit it out," highlighting that small mishaps are usually harmless.
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