This topic is about dealing with a stoma that has become increasingly noisy over time, particularly due to trapped wind. The person experiencing this issue is looking for ways to quiet the noise, especially when manual pressure over the stoma only works for short periods. Here are some shared experiences and advice from others who have faced similar challenges:
1. Shared experiences:
- Many people have found that their stomas, or even their bowels after a reversal, can be quite loud. This is often normal and not necessarily a cause for concern.
2. Over-the-counter anti-gas products:
- Taking BEANO before meals can help reduce gas from vegetables and legumes.
- Gas-X offers a pre-meal enzyme product, and their chewable tablets (up to three at a time) can be useful once gas has started.
3. Mechanical and position strategies:
- Lying on your left side can help relax the gastrointestinal tract, allowing gas to pass more quietly.
- Wearing a snug elastic garment can help dampen the sound. Options include:
- A light hernia belt or any ostomy belt.
- A tight-fitting undershirt under a looser outer shirt, which gently presses on the appliance without blocking output.
4. Diet adjustments:
- Avoid letting your stomach become completely empty, as this can lead to noisy gas.
- Consider food-combining principles, such as eating faster-digesting foods like fruit before slower-digesting fats and proteins to prevent fermentation and gas.
- Focus on fresh, minimally processed foods and reduce additives that might contribute to excess gas.
5. Possible medical cause to rule out:
- In one case, severe gas and noise were resolved after treating a Helicobacter pylori infection, which was identified through a breath test. If the gas is extreme or a new issue, discussing testing and treatment with a physician might be beneficial.
6. Commercial sources:
- Phoenix magazine, which focuses on ostomy-related topics, advertises various products aimed at gas suppression and stoma noise control. Browsing these ads might help you find belts, wraps, or specialized covers that apply gentle pressure.
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