This topic is about dealing with recurring kidney infections after having an ileostomy. The person sharing their experience has been struggling with multiple kidney infections over the past year, which have been extremely painful. They are currently on a strong antibiotic and are scheduled for further tests to check for kidney stones. They are also curious if others with an ileostomy face similar kidney issues. Here are some helpful insights and advice shared by others:

1. Hydration is crucial:
- Dehydration due to high, watery output from an ileostomy can lead to urinary tract infections (UTIs) and kidney infections.
- It's better to use oral rehydration or electrolyte sachets instead of plain water. Keep these handy for early signs of dehydration like a dry mouth or headache.
- Consult with your stoma or renal team about how many isotonic drinks you should have daily, as too many can actually worsen fluid loss.
- Some people find that artificial sweeteners in sports drinks increase stoma output, so they opt for homemade solutions like "St Mark’s Solution" or "Oxford Solution," which are hospital-formulated without sweeteners.

2. Check for diabetes:
- Persistent excessive thirst can be a sign of diabetes, so it's important to include HbA1c or glucose testing in your blood work.

3. Be aware of kidney stones:
- Many people with an ileostomy develop kidney stones, which can be more painful than surgery.
- The first sign is often blood in the urine, either visible or microscopic, so seek imaging tests like X-rays, ultrasounds, or CT scans promptly.
- Treatment depends on the size of the stone; it might pass on its own or require procedures like stent placement or lithotripsy.

4. Review your medications:
- Some medications can affect kidney function or change your hydration needs, so discuss your current prescriptions with your doctor.

5. Symptom relief and alternative therapies:
- For recurrent UTI pain, some people apply colloidal silver topically to the urethral opening with a soaked cotton pad after each void, claiming it stops infections within 1–3 days. Note that this is anecdotal and lacks clinical data.

6. Practical tips:
- Keep electrolyte sachets nearby and use them at the first sign of dehydration.
- Track your fluid intake and output, and review this with your stoma nurse.
- Be prepared for severe pain if a kidney stone moves, and seek emergency care quickly if needed.