What you need to know after an ostomy

Ostomies are not uncommon. While it may seem like you're going through it all alone, you're one of the thousands of ostomies around the world. In fact, in the United States alone, it is estimated that as many as 750,000 people have had an ostomy. You may feel very tired right after your colostomy. There may also be pain in the abdomen, this is normal. There may also be gas entering your colostomy bag as your body adapts. It also takes at least 6 weeks to return to normal daily life. It does take some getting used to the ostomy. However, would your life be completely different? Can you exercise and eat good food after ostomy surgery? This article will introduce you to the little knowledge that you should know after surgery, so let's take a look at it with me.

First you need to know your stoma

①Form :

Endostomy: There is only one opening in the abdominal wall and it is permanent.

Loop stoma: It is generally a double-lumen stoma, and the anus of patients with ileal loop stoma is still reserved, which is more common in clinical practice and is mainly temporary.

②Stoma color:

 After surgery, the stoma should be slightly moist and pink or red. This is completely normal. Any pain, swelling, or minor bleeding will go away with time. However, if you have excessive pain or bleeding, or if your stoma is discolored, contact your doctor as soon as possible.

Carry out proper skin careIdeally： 

The skin around your stoma should look like your new surgery, although it may be slightly irritated with the pouch on.

You can use Longterm Medical Skin Protective Powder, it will protect the skin around your stoma from drying out, you just need to make sure the skin area around the stoma is clean and dry. You can clean your skin with warm water and a soft, clean towel every time you change your pouch. When using soap, stick to brands that are gentle and don't contain any oils, deodorants, or fragrances, as this can cause skin irritation or prevent the ostomy system from adhering to the skin properly.

Choose the right ostomy bag：

In a period of time after the operation, your body will gradually adapt, and you will gradually understand your bowel movements. At this time, you can choose the appropriate ostomy bag and chassis. The chassis is selected according to the shape of your stoma. If you start to see leaks or find that your current size no longer fits, please contact your ostomy doctor promptly. A medical professional can help you with these types of medical problems.

Adjust your diet：

You may lose weight after surgery. It's important to increase your calorie, fat, and protein intake to help your body's healing process. In addition to your normal diet, you should consider including the following foods:

① Whole milk and cheese

② Double cream (added to soups, mashed potatoes, and puddings)

③Snacks on cookies and cakes

④ daily protein-rich foods such as fish, tender meat, and eggs

⑤ Drink water regularly to avoid dehydration

For more information on Innomed® Ostomy pouch, refer to the previous articles. If you have customized needs, you are welcome to contact us; we will serve you wholeheartedly.

At Longterm Medical, we transform this data by innovating and developing products that make life easier for those who need loving care.

Editor: kiki Jia

Date: September 27, 2022