The topic is about preparing for a colonoscopy when you have a stoma, which can be a bit daunting. The person in question is particularly worried about the bowel prep process, especially since they have a colostomy and are concerned about the prep solution causing a mess. They are also anxious about whether the prescribed amount is safe for their small body weight. Here are some helpful insights and advice:
1. Many people with ostomies have successfully used standard bowel preps like MoviPrep, GoLYTELY, and others without experiencing pain at the stoma. The output usually drains directly into the pouch.
2. MoviPrep is often criticized for its taste and the cramping it can cause. It might be worth asking your doctor about alternative options such as:
- GoLYTELY, which is a 4-liter PEG-3350 electrolyte solution.
- Half-LYTELY, which combines 2 liters of PEG-3350 with bisacodyl.
- Magnesium-sulfate based preparations, if your doctor approves.
3. Eating lightly, such as a clear or low-residue diet, for a day or two before starting the prep can make the process smoother.
4. A practical tip is to sit backwards on the toilet, open the drainable ostomy bag, and let it empty directly. This way, there's no mess and no need to remove the pouch. It's best to stay home all day during this process.
5. Using drainable pouches is crucial. With a colostomy or ileostomy, the entire process can be completed in about two hours, which is often easier than making multiple trips to the toilet without a stoma.
6. If drinking large volumes of liquid is difficult, you can request that a nasogastric (NG) tube be placed in the hospital. Nurses can then administer the solution through the tube, though this is an extreme measure.
7. If NG tubes are not tolerable, you can refuse them and opt for oral prep only. Discuss these options with your endoscopy team.
8. To improve the taste of the prep solution, try mixing it with lemon-flavored Crystal Light to make it taste like Sprite or 7-Up. Chilling the liquid or using a straw can also help.
9. You can request sedation and an anti-anxiety medication like Vistaril for the procedure to help ease your fears and make the experience more comfortable.
10. Since Fleet Phospho-soda is no longer available in the U.S., there isn't a perfect prep solution. It's important to work with your gastroenterologist to find the best option for your weight and medical history.
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