Topic Explanation:
The forum topic is about a 32-year-old individual who underwent surgery for an ileostomy due to Crohn's disease and cancer. They are seeking advice and support regarding managing their ileostomy, dealing with watery output, gas problems, and issues with bag sticking. They also seek guidance on showering with the bag, choosing the right bag, and managing their new lifestyle.
Advice and Insights:
- Showers are okay, but it's refreshing to let the skin breathe and dry the bag with a towel or a blow dryer.
- Use a one-piece drainable pouch and consider drying the bag with a towel or a blow dryer.
- Consider using a two-piece system with closed bags to avoid leaks and manage output more effectively.
- Use convex bags and consider using an Eakin seal to prevent leaks and protect the skin.
- Experiment with different products and samples from companies to find the right fit for your stoma.
- Consider using loperamide to thicken output and manage high output.
- Use moldable wafers and consider using medical tape for extra adhesion.
- Avoid using soap on the skin underneath the wafer and consider using hot and cold water to prepare the skin before putting on the wafer.
- Consider using a two-piece system with a moldable wafer and a drainable pouch for flexibility and ease of use.
- Maintain a positive attitude and adapt to the changes, and don't let the stoma define who you are.
- Seek help from a specialist dietician/nutritionist to work out a plan for managing an ileostomy during active treatment.
- Consider using pocket wraps for holding the bag and maintaining tension under clothing.
- Be patient, use trial and error, and reach out to the community for suggestions when facing problems.
- Consider using Reiki or attending healing meditations to lift the heavy feeling from the body and mind during chemo.
Conclusion:
The forum discussion provided valuable insights and advice on managing an ileostomy, dealing with output consistency, choosing the right bag, and maintaining a positive attitude during challenging times. The community members shared their personal experiences and practical tips to help the individual navigate their new lifestyle with an ileostomy.
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