What You Should Know About Stoma Before Your Surgical Procedure

By Karyn Shields


Certain illnesses and surgeries require doctors to create surgical openings for rerouting digestive waste as part of their treatments. These openings are commonly known as stoma. They can be both temporary or permanent.

People can have one of three opening types created. These are urostomy, colostomy and ileostomy openings. You will receive a surgical incision and collection unit according to the manner in which your condition will affect your urinary and digestive health and functioning. The amount of time that your waste will need to be rerouted and whether or not this will be a permanent change will also play roles in determining which option your doctor will use.

Once doctors have made an incision, the area will be fitted with equipment that is designed to monitor and collect your waste. This is a pouch that is structured to be both discreet and small. When the pouch fills up, you will be able to empty it by removing and discarding the interior liner. Your unit will effectively capture all odors, liquids and solids.

You won't have to alter your wardrobe to accommodate this new addition. Depending on how large your device is and where it is positioned, however, altering the waistline of certain garments might prove necessary. This could increase your overall comfort levels quite a bit and it may make it easier for your to access and clean your unit as needed.

Once an incision area has been created, you will find that the opening looks similar to the inside of your mouth as it will be soft and pink or red. There will likely be some soreness, which is not uncommon. Should you experience any inflammation or swelling and if the area becomes hot, you should notify your provider right away as this likely indicates infection.

There are a number of questions that people often have about these procedures, especially as they pertain to their ability to continue living normal lives. One of the greatest concerns is whether or not collection bags will smell. It is important to note that these products are designed with the specific intention of containing or minimizing foul odors.

Many people are able to continue maintaining normal diets after these procedures have been performed. There are rarely foods that you will have to eliminate from your diet as the result of this transition. There could be, however, dietary changes that must be made for your overall wellness or that reflect the needs that have arisen due to a chronic illness.

People are also able to enjoy regular exercise with these devices. Your doctor should give you clearance before you become active again. Your device is going to be watertight and thus, swimming is something that you can still enjoy. Other activities such as biking, running and jogging will be possible as well.

People should give their bodies ample time to recover after having ha these procedures performed rather than attempting to get right back to their normal ways of living. Strength and endurance should be gradually rebuilt. If you are careful to pace yourself, it will be possible to continue engaging in many of your favorite events.




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