This topic is about dealing with swelling around a stoma, which might be due to a blockage or constipation, and understanding when it's necessary to seek emergency room care. Here's a breakdown of the situation and some helpful advice:

- The person experienced vomiting, nausea, and severe lower-abdominal pain overnight. At the ER, tests showed hernias and stool but no immediate hernia issues. They were advised to use stool softeners and follow up with their primary care doctor.

- After visiting the doctor the next day, they noticed a new lump or swelling around the stoma. Although semi-soft stool was entering the pouch, their appetite was poor, and they couldn't reach their ET nurse. They were worried about a possible blockage versus constipation and wondered if they should return to the ER.

- They did return to the ER, where the swelling had decreased, and output resumed after using stool softeners. A CT scan showed diverticulitis just above the stoma, and they were prescribed a 14-day course of oral antibiotics. The ER doctor thought there was a partial blockage or constipation that had resolved.

- The person has a history of an emergency colostomy due to a diverticular rupture and infection. Follow-up calls from healthcare professionals advised that green output could be due to antibiotics and suggested reducing stool-softener use. The ostomy is currently functioning.

Here are some pieces of advice and insights shared by others:

1. If you suspect a blockage or if symptoms like vomiting, severe pain, and minimal output worsen, go to the ER immediately. Delaying can lead to serious complications like bowel ischemia and may require more surgery.

2. Drinking hot beverages like tea or broth, walking, and gently massaging the abdomen can help relieve partial blockages and move stool or trapped food.

3. Keep an eye on the duration of symptoms. If pain, vomiting, and little or no output last more than 4 to 6 hours, seek medical help. Prolonged obstruction can cause severe damage to the bowel.

4. Chew your food thoroughly. Even foods that seem low-risk, like small pieces of tortilla, can cause obstructions, especially if you have hernias.

5. Antibiotics can make the output thinner and turn it green. Adjust your use of stool softeners accordingly and ensure you drink plenty of fluids.