In 2008, at the age of 20, I inherited a neurological disorder that caused 15 daily BMs and a constant fecal smell. Other than nerve problems of the internal sphincter, my health and fitness were excellent.
In July 2013, I got an elective sigmoid colostomy. I still smell like feces and have been severely bloated since surgery. I'm very lean and barely eating, but I have a huge stomach most of the time. It's extremely uncomfortable, to the point where I can barely sleep at night. I irrigate twice a day just to get some relief from the pressure. At this point, I'm willing to do anything to end the intense discomfort, which is so bad I almost can't sit still.
The surgeon who did the ostomy got an x-ray and said that there was no torsion/obstruction, and that constipation is common with sigmoids. I was never constipated before the ostomy, and sitz marker tests show normal motility. But basically, at this point, there's no way I can handle solid output, and can't stand the 24-hour transit time from meal to output.
I'm seriously considering going to the Mayo Clinic for a second opinion and to discuss switching to an ascending colostomy or ileo, to get liquid output. Some sources say ileos are preferable because the smaller size makes liquid easier to manage, but ascending colos are much less prone to blockages.
Can anyone recommend one or the other? Has anyone gone from left-side colo to right-side or ileo? Are any of you ileostomates severely bloated?
Please let me know. I need the pain to end.
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First off, this is a pretty cool site with 33,098 members. Get inside and you will see.
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It's a very special community, embracing all ages and backgrounds. People are honest and truly care.
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Create an account and you will be amazed.
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Are you a caregiver for a child with an ostomy? In the summer months, this can become more challenging, thanks to heat, humidity, water activities, and travel plans.
Learn more about caring for children with an ostomy on vacation.
Learn more about caring for children with an ostomy on vacation.