This topic is about managing concerns related to gas and odor in the workplace for someone who has been living with a colostomy for several years. The person experienced an embarrassing moment when a coworker commented on an odor, leading to anxiety and uncertainty about whether to disclose their condition at work. Here are some helpful tips and insights shared by others:

1. Use humor or a simple explanation: Some people find that casually acknowledging any unusual sounds with a brief explanation, like mentioning they are a colon cancer survivor with an ostomy pouch, can ease awkwardness and even educate others.

2. Check the pouch: Ensure that the pouch has a secure seal and a working filter to contain odors. A loose seal or a clogged filter might allow smells to escape.

3. Consider colostomy irrigation: Using a vented stoma plug during the day and irrigating can significantly reduce gas noise and odor.

4. Try an internal deodorizer: Devrom, which comes as banana-flavored chewable tablets, can be taken up to eight times daily with meals to help reduce stool and flatulence odor.

5. Monitor your diet: Keeping a food log can help identify foods that produce gas. Many people notice that gas is most problematic after their first meal of the day.

6. Explore noise-suppression aids and resources:
- The Coloplast wellness article "Dining Out" offers practical tips and can be found online.
- The Stoma Stifler device is designed to muffle stoma sounds and might be worth considering.