Living with an end colostomy can sometimes be a bit unpredictable, especially when it comes to managing stool consistency. If you're finding it challenging to maintain a regular and manageable output, here are some practical tips that might help:

1. Colostomy Irrigation
- Consider learning about colostomy irrigation if you have an end, descending, or sigmoid colostomy. This method is not recommended for those with Crohn’s disease, but for others, it can significantly reduce concerns about stool consistency and timing.

2. Hydration
- Make sure you're drinking enough fluids each day. Not getting enough can lead to hard stools and excess gas, so staying well-hydrated can help keep your output softer and more consistent.

3. Diet Adjustments
- Incorporate more leafy salads and balanced fiber into your meals to help keep things moving smoothly.
- Be mindful of high-carbohydrate, low-fiber foods like white pasta and white rice, as they can thicken your output. Try to balance these with other foods.
- Avoid "stringy" foods such as fresh pineapple, celery, and bamboo shoots, as they can be difficult to pass or may cause blockages.
- Some people find that whole-wheat pasta works better than white pasta, but if you have a reduced colon length, you might need to avoid whole-wheat products altogether.

4. Medication Option
- Taking one Imodium (loperamide) tablet each morning can help regulate stool consistency and timing. However, it's important to use this under medical guidance to ensure it's safe and appropriate for you.

These tips are shared by others who have navigated similar experiences and might offer some relief in managing your colostomy more comfortably.