Living with a colostomy for 20 years can bring about various experiences, and one of them might be dealing with persistent rectal mucus discharge. Initially, this discharge might have been a temporary issue, resolving in a few days, but it can sometimes become a continuous concern. Here are some ideas and solutions that might help:

1. Flushing/Irrigation
- Consider performing a rectal enema, such as a Fleet Enema, to clear out any accumulated mucus.
- Some people find it helpful to attach an irrigation device to their shower hose to rinse the rectal stump. Doing this periodically can help manage malodorous or excessive mucus.

2. Absorbent Protection
- If the discharge is clear and odor-free, you might find it easier to switch from irrigation to using absorbent products like incontinence pads or women’s panty liners for daily management.

3. Surgical Considerations
- If your rectum and sphincters are still functional, it might be worth discussing with your surgeon the possibility of a colostomy reversal (reconnection).
- In cases where the rectum or sphincters are damaged or non-viable, a complete rectal removal (proctectomy) could be an option to eliminate mucus issues entirely.

4. Further Information & Support
- You can find more information on bowel mucus at: http://www.healtharticles101.com/bowel-mucus-do-i-have-problems-with-digestive-tract/
- The United Ostomy Associations of America (UOAA) offers resources and hosts a bi-annual 4-day Educational & Fun Conference. More details can be found at OSTOMY.org.