The topic at hand is about dealing with concerns of a partial blockage after Thanksgiving. The person experiencing this issue noticed symptoms like abdominal bloating and liquid stool starting the day after the holiday. They suspect that not chewing food well and drinking less fluid than usual might have triggered these symptoms. Here's a summary of their experience and some helpful advice:
- Since Friday, they've been experiencing abdominal bloating and large volumes of liquid stool. Their diet has been limited to simple foods like a biscuit and scrambled egg for breakfast, and mashed potatoes with chicken broth for dinner.
- On Sunday morning, they experienced persistent heartburn, which is unusual for them.
- They've tried some self-help measures, such as the knee-to-chest position, walking, drinking half a can of Coca-Cola, and grape juice, which resulted in one thick stool. Otherwise, the output has been mostly liquid.
- Last night, the stoma expelled frothy yellow output when pressed. The pain has been intermittent and dull, not severe.
- They want to avoid a visit to the emergency room and are seeking suggestions.
Here are some pieces of advice and insights that might help:
1. Hydration is crucial. Drink plenty of water and consider electrolyte solutions like sports drinks, as continuous liquid output can lead to dehydration.
2. Warm liquids and hot therapy can be soothing. Sip on warm tea, decaf coffee, or hot cocoa to help relax the gut. A warm bath or a warm/massaging heating pad on the abdomen can also be comforting.
3. Gentle physical measures can aid relief. Walking, using the knee-to-chest position, and practicing deep-breathing relaxation might help. Some people find success with gently massaging around the stoma. If the stoma is swollen, consider cutting a larger opening in the appliance.
4. Over-the-counter aids like anti-gas tablets (e.g., GasX) can help reduce bloating. Carbonated beverages like Coca-Cola might help move gas, though results can vary.
5. Be aware of warning signs that require immediate medical attention, such as no output for 12 hours or more, persistent vomiting, escalating pain, or an inability to stay hydrated. If these occur, do not hesitate to visit the Emergency Department.
6. Follow up with specialists. Contact your gastroenterologist to discuss possible causes like strictures, narrowing, disease activity, or adhesions. Even if symptoms resolve, consider imaging like an MRI or CT for peace of mind.
7. General reassurance: Yellow, frothy (bile) output can appear during partial obstructions and is not alarming by itself. Many of the measures mentioned are similar to what an ER would initially advise.
8. Long-term disease management: One person shared that undiagnosed Crohn’s-related narrowing eventually required surgery and was later managed with Remicade (infliximab) infusions, highlighting the importance of investigating recurrent obstructions.
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