This topic is about a person experiencing issues with their ileostomy pouch due to strong-smelling, bubble-forming output. The output has become so acidic that it thins the plastic of the pouch, causing a noticeable odor and necessitating frequent changes. The person is unsure if the problem is due to acid and is seeking advice from others who might have faced similar issues.
Here are some helpful insights and advice:
1. It's important to seek medical evaluation as soon as possible. A doctor or a visit to the ER can help rule out any underlying issues such as obstruction, infection, or severe dehydration.
2. The strong acidic, bubbly, yellow liquid output might indicate a partial blockage or intolerance to certain foods. Keeping a close track of your diet can help identify any triggers.
3. Consider reducing or eliminating milk and some dairy products if they seem to coincide with the acidic output, as they can cause stomach upset and lead to loose, corrosive effluent.
4. Be vigilant about dehydration. The acidic odor and liquid output can be early warning signs, even before you start feeling thirsty.
5. While acidic effluent may erode wafers faster, it typically does not eat through the pouch itself. Regularly inspect both the wafer and the pouch for any signs of wear.
6. Using a deodorant inside the pouch can help neutralize odors, even with strong acidic output. Some people recommend using Na'Scent for this purpose.
7. With proper management of diet and hydration, it is possible to keep a pouch in place for up to 7 days without leaks, as shared by others with similar experiences.
See full discusison