Dear Laura,
I had emergency ostomy surgery last march. I have a peristomal hernia the size of a breast. Is that normal? Thanks so much.
Best Wishes,
Manny
Hi Manny,
Large hernias are not uncommon for people who have ostomies, but it is not necessarily normal. A hernia, according to Healthline, occurs when part of the intestines push through the muscular abdominal wall. The stoma is essentially a medically created hernia. It creates weakness in the abdominal wall. Due to this weakness, hernias are not uncommon.
Talk to your surgeon to see if he or she thinks it is okay to leave the hernia as is, or if he or she believes it should be repaired.
I would also suggest investing in a hernia belt (like the New Hope Hernia Belt). This will help support your hernia and prevent it from getting worse. Many practitioners and manufacturers suggest putting on the hernia belt while lying down in bed, while the hernia is not protruding as far out of your body. After correctly applying the hernia belt, you can get out of bed and walk around feeling like your hernia is secure and supported!
Please let me know if you have any other questions!
I hope you’re happy and healthy!
-Laura
For more information, see related ostomy issue articles and ostomy resources here:
- Abdominal Adhesions
- Intestinal Blockages
- When to Contact your Doctor With Stoma Complications or Peristomal Skin Issues
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Dear Laura, I wear a two piece ostomy bag. I need help with concealing an ostomy bag. When I move around my shirt hikes up and the tip of the bag peeks out from under my shirt.
