Living with a high-output ileostomy can be quite challenging, especially when it follows surgery for conditions like Crohn’s disease. In this situation, a family is seeking support and practical advice for their mother, who is experiencing a high volume of liquid stool output after her ileostomy surgery. Here are some insights and tips that might help:

1. It's important to know that high output is common in the early weeks after surgery. The small intestine needs time to adapt and will gradually absorb more fluid, which usually leads to a decrease in output over time.

2. Staying hydrated is crucial to prevent dehydration and kidney issues. It's recommended to drink plenty of fluids, including electrolyte-rich drinks like Gatorade, to maintain proper hydration levels.

3. Incorporating certain foods into the diet can help thicken the output and slow it down. Some of these foods include:
- Marshmallows
- Potatoes, pasta, crackers, and pretzels
- Bean and bacon soup

4. Chewing food thoroughly is essential to avoid blockages, particularly when eating raw fruits, vegetables, nuts, or other foods that act as natural laxatives.

5. Once the body has adapted, the typical transit time can be around five hours, which helps make the output more predictable and manageable.

6. Emotional support and patience are key. Many people with an ileostomy find that they can return to a normal routine after the initial adjustment period.