This topic is about a person whose mother has recently had a colostomy and is experiencing persistent vomiting, unable to keep any food or drink down. The family is worried and seeking advice, especially since the surgeon only mentioned low potassium levels without addressing their concerns. Here are some helpful insights and advice:

1. Persistent vomiting after a colostomy is not normal. It is important to seek evaluation from another doctor or specialist until the cause is identified.

2. Possible causes for the vomiting include:
- Post-operative ileus, which means the bowel hasn't "woken up" yet. The typical management for this condition includes not eating or drinking anything by mouth, receiving intravenous fluids, and allowing time for recovery.
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), which can be diagnosed with an upper-GI endoscopy.

3. If the ostomy is not functioning yet, there may be no gas or output. To help stimulate bowel activity, try chewing gum and sipping small amounts of water until gas and liquid begin to pass.