Everyone with a stoma can attest that they don’t always behave themselves. On occasion, they can cause some pretty serious issues. These issues can seemingly appear from nowhere: after eating popcorn for years without any problems, you may suddenly experience an intestinal blockage. Or abdominal adhesions that have lain dormant for years can crop up.
We often get questions on our OstomyLife Facebook page where people ask questions about ostomy issues that surface – even after they’ve had their stomas for years! Such as this one from J., asking about her mom: “My mom has had an ostomy for 40 years and never had a problem. In August her stoma became recessed, became necrotic and she had two resections in ten days. She’s a very sick lady. We cannot get her pouch to stick for longer than 36/48 hrs, usually have to change every other day. She used to go three or four days. Took showers, very responsible and clean. Now it’s gotten to the point if she isn’t flat we can’t get a seal at all. Any tips?” And our helpful OstomyLife community was able to step in with some terrific answers!
We hope you’ll find the answers you’re looking for below. If not, feel free to Ask Laura or head to our Facebook page and write a post.
Here are a few articles about ostomy issues and complications:
Shield HealthCare | Medical Supplies For Care At Home Since 1957
How can one limit ostomy output while sleeping?
I have a recessed stoma that caused my pouch not to stay on. After working with my wound care person, she found a pouch made by New Hope that is designed for recessed stomas. I have been using them now for about 4 years, and they work so much better for me. I was getting so disappointed with the regular flat type of pouch that did not match what my body was doing, but now I feel very secure and comfortable with them. Ask your doctor or wound specialist if they could look into one of these for you. I made a big difference for me.
I have a recessed stoma that caused my pouch not to stay on. After working with my wound care person, she found a pouch made by New Hope that is designed for recessed stomas. I have been using them now for about 4 years, and they work so much better for me. I was getting so disappointed with the regular flat type of pouch that did not match what my body was doing, but now I feel very secure and comfortable with them. Ask your doctor or wound specialist if they could look into one of these for you. It made a big difference for me.
Part on the skin around my stoma is bloody. how much of a concern is this & is it common ?