This topic is about someone who had ostomy surgery two years ago and is now experiencing a growing bulge on the right side of their abdomen. This bulge becomes painful after meals and is associated with a decrease in ostomy output. The person is unsure if this is a bowel knot, a hernia, or something else, and is looking for advice.

Here are some helpful insights and advice:

1. It is important to seek prompt evaluation by a gastroenterologist or a colorectal/ostomy surgeon. A growing bulge, pain, and reduced output could indicate a parastomal hernia or bowel obstruction, which needs professional assessment.

2. In similar cases, some have reported that a parastomal hernia blocked output, and surgical correction resolved the issue.

3. Consider making dietary adjustments:
- Try eliminating or greatly reducing starchy foods, as this has helped some people experience fewer blockages.
- Stay well-hydrated by drinking at least 64 ounces (8 glasses) of water daily. This helps keep stool thinner and promotes flow. Room-temperature water might be easier to drink in large quantities.

4. Gentle abdominal massage around the bulge or right-side area after meals can help move bowel contents through the stoma and relieve pressure.

5. Keep an eye on your symptoms. If you notice increasing pain, absence of output, or the bulge growing in size, seek urgent medical care.