This topic is about managing and reducing ostomy gas noises, especially for someone who has recently undergone rectal cancer surgery and is concerned about returning to work. Here are some helpful tips and insights shared by others who have been in similar situations:

1. Consider using oral gas reducers:
- Chewable tablets like generic "Gas Relief" (simethicone) from Walmart are often more effective than caplets.
- Taking generic Beano (alpha-galactosidase) just before meals can help prevent gas.

2. Think about irrigation:
- Many find irrigation to be the most effective way to reduce or eliminate gas, ballooning, and output. Some have experienced life-changing results.
- If your doctor allows, discuss the possibility of starting irrigation earlier with your surgeon or ostomy nurse instead of waiting the full six months.

3. Choose the right appliances and accessories:
- Use pouches with integrated filters to help vent gas and reduce ballooning. Since performance can vary by brand, it's a good idea to request samples from different manufacturers.
- Some people have found Hollister filtered pouches to be more effective than Convatec ones.
- Stoma plugs with built-in filters can help muffle both odor and sound for those who irrigate.

4. Make diet adjustments:
- Try to limit grains, cereals, and other foods that are known to cause gas, and keep track of your personal triggers.
- Be aware that chemotherapy can increase intestinal gas, so extra care might be needed during treatment.

5. General tips:
- Over time, as your bowel adapts, the volume and noise of gas may decrease.
- If a noise does occur, a simple "excuse me" and moving on can help ease any social discomfort.

These suggestions aim to help manage and reduce the anxiety around ostomy gas, making the transition back to work a bit smoother.