This topic is about the experiences and advice shared by people with ostomies regarding drinking alcohol. The original poster, who has an ileostomy, was concerned about nausea and the risk of leaks when drinking. Here are some helpful insights and advice from others who have been in similar situations:
1. Dehydration is a major concern when drinking alcohol with an ostomy, especially an ileostomy.
- To combat this, drink a glass of water or another non-alcoholic beverage like Gatorade with every alcoholic drink.
- Be extra cautious in hot weather or when consuming drinks with higher alcohol content, as these can increase the risk of dehydration.
2. Start slowly and test your tolerance.
- Begin with half a glass of wine and wait to see how your body reacts before having more. Many people find their limit at 1-2 drinks, while others may handle 3-4.
- Everyone's body reacts differently, so it's important to learn your own limits.
3. Be prepared for changes in output.
- Alcohol can lead to faster, looser, or more voluminous output, so you may need to empty your pouch more frequently.
- Keep supplies handy in case you need to change your appliance while drinking.
4. Manage gas effectively.
- Carbonated drinks like beer can cause significant gas, which might inflate your pouch or even cause it to come off. Opt for still drinks like wine or spirits to reduce gas.
- If your pouch inflates, "burp" it, and consider setting alarms at night to check on it.
5. Practical tips to prevent leaks.
- Empty your pouch when it is one-third to half full.
- Use support belts, elastic tape, or similar products for extra security when going out.
- If possible, drink at home where you have easy access to a bathroom.
6. For those with a urostomy:
- Alcohol is generally tolerated, but it's crucial to maintain high fluid intake to prevent urinary tract infections.
- Having a companion remind you to empty your pouch can be helpful if it fills quickly.
7. Long-term experiences vary.
- Some people with ileostomies, colostomies, or urostomies enjoy alcohol regularly without major issues.
- Others choose to abstain due to past alcoholism, liver disease, or personal preference.
8. Consider medical factors.
- If you have liver issues, such as Hepatitis C, consult your doctor before drinking. One person resumed occasional wine only after antiviral treatment.
- If you're on steroids like Prednisone, check with your doctor about potential interactions with alcohol.
9. Helpful products mentioned include Harvoni (an antiviral medication), Prednisone (a steroid), Gatorade (an electrolyte drink), elastic tape, and ostomy support belts.
In general, moderate alcohol consumption is possible for most ostomates if you stay hydrated, monitor your output, manage gas, and know your personal limits.
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