This topic is about someone who recently had an ileostomy, which is a surgical procedure that creates an opening in the belly to allow waste to leave the body. Seven weeks after the surgery, they are experiencing some concerning symptoms and are seeking advice and support.

Here are some helpful insights and advice shared by others:

1. The person noticed continuous leakage that they think is urine, along with discoloration and a foul odor. They have informed their surgeon, who suspects a severe urinary tract infection (UTI).

2. The leakage started suddenly about a week ago, but there is no pain associated with it.

3. Typically, a fistula, which is an abnormal connection between organs, would cause symptoms like pain, inflammation, and abscess formation before any drainage occurs. The absence of these signs might suggest that a fistula is less likely.

4. It is important to ask the surgeon if a urine culture was taken to confirm a UTI. If a UTI is suspected, prompt antibiotic treatment should be considered.

5. A fistula usually allows flow in both directions. For example, with a recto-vesical fistula, urine might pass through the anus first, and stool might appear in the urine later. Observing the source and direction of the leakage can help determine whether it is a fistula or a UTI.

6. Imaging tests like the gastrografin enema can often detect fistulas. Since the test showed no abnormalities, this supports the likelihood of a UTI, although it doesn't completely rule out a fistula.

7. People with fistulas often report drainage from specific sites that match the fistula's location, such as the anal or vaginal area. Keeping track of where the fluid is coming from can provide important clues.