Question: Navigating Digestive Challenges with a Long-Standing Colostomy
I am a 70-year-old woman with a colostomy due to rectal cancer that I had in my mid-30s. Initially, managing my ostomy was quite manageable, but over the years, I’ve experienced increasing bouts of diarrhea and pain during peristalsis. I have also developed a hernia, and in the last three years, I’ve faced severe diarrhea, leading to potassium deficiency and weight loss. Despite trying various dietary changes like a gluten-free diet and modifying fiber intake, the issue persists. Could this be due to my hernia or something like irritable bowel syndrome? I am seeking advice on managing these symptoms effectively.
Response: Understanding and Addressing Complex Ostomy-Related Digestive Issues
Your experience highlights how ostomy management can evolve over time, particularly with additional health changes like a hernia. The inconsistency in your bowel movements and the recent increase in diarrhea are concerning, especially given your weight loss and potassium deficiency. While dietary adjustments are often helpful, your situation seems to involve more complex factors that might extend beyond dietary influences.
- Medical Assessment: It’s crucial to consult with your healthcare provider for a thorough examination. Given the changes in your bowel habits and the presence of a hernia, a detailed medical evaluation is necessary to identify the underlying causes of your symptoms.
- Possible Hernia Impact: The hernia you mentioned might be contributing to the irregular bowel movements and discomfort. Hernias can affect the function of the bowel and may require specific medical attention or even surgical intervention.
- Exploring Other Conditions: While irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) could be a factor, it’s essential to rule out other potential causes, such as bowel obstruction, infection, or changes in the intestine’s function due to the long-term presence of the colostomy.
- Nutritional Support: Consulting a dietitian experienced in ostomy management could provide additional insights into your diet. They can help tailor a nutritional plan that addresses your specific needs, considering your colostomy and the current digestive challenges.
- Ongoing Ostomy Care: Continuous evaluation of your ostomy care routine is important. Ensuring proper appliance fit and function can help manage the output and protect against skin irritation or breakdown, especially with increased diarrhea episodes.
Your proactive approach to managing your colostomy over the years is commendable. However, given the recent changes and challenges, professional medical guidance is vital to ensure your continued health and comfort.
Jo-Ann L. Tremblay THE OSTOMY FACTOR
Blog – joannltremblay.wordpress.com
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Author of “The Self-Coaching Toolbox”, “Better With A Bag Than In A Bag”, “Another BAG Another DAY”, “BAGs Around the World”, “Why Buttercup Wears a BAG!”, “The Sibs Gang Cave of the Golden Heart” amazon.com, amazon.ca, amazon.co.uk
Member Ostomy Canada/Medical Lifestyle Advisory Committee Member – Ostomy Lifestyle Expert https://ostomycanada.ca
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Website: jo-annltremblay.com
