Colorectal cancer patients or those suffering from other bowel issues may require a colostomy. It is a surgical procedure used to change how waste is eliminated from the body. An opening is made on the belly (abdomen) through which the stool can pass. A stoma is the name of this opening. A pouch is attached to the skin around the stoma to collect stool. This pouch needs to be changed frequently. Colostomy life can be challenging. Knowing what you can expect and how to handle it is still a good idea.
What is the colon?
A colon is where the small intestine connects with the rectum of the large intestine. The colon is where food enters from the small intestine. While the food passes through the colon, it absorbs nutrients and water. Once the waste is passed through the rectum, it is stored as stool until it can be shed.
What is an ostomy?
Surgically created openings are called ostomies. An individual who loses normal bladder and bowel function may need it. Congenital disabilities, diseases, injuries, or other disorders can result in the loss of function. Among the types of ostomies are:
Colostomy
A piece of the colon is used to make the opening. The stool that emerges is soft to firm.
The small intestine has a part called the ileum that makes the opening. The ileum is located in the lower right corner of your belly. The stools are liquid to semi-soft and green in color.
Urostomy
A urine drain is located in the body, not a stool drain.
Stoma surgery lets the waste leave the body through an opening on the abdominal wall (stoma). An ostomy can either be temporary or permanent. To collect waste, ostomates require special pouches worn over the stoma.
At any point in the colon, a colostomy may be formed. The type of stool that comes out will differ based on where the ostomy is.
Understanding the pouch system
The majority of colostomy appliances are pouches with two pieces. Styles, brands, and sizes are available. It may take you a few tries before finding the right one. Among the components are:
A flange is a stretchy band around the stoma that adheres to the skin. The skin around your stoma can be protected since it can be cut to fit.
A pouch: Essentially, the bag is attached to the flange. The stool is collected in it. Some contain an opening at the bottom through which water can be drained.
You need to know a few things before selecting a colostomy supply company.
Here is what you'll need and where you can get it. You were cleaning and emptying the pouch and replacing the bag and flange. How to ensure the pocket won't leak. What to do when you shower with a pouch on.
Changing the flange
You must have clean, dry skin before applying the flange. This allows the flange to stick (adhere) well for a long time. You may use the lowest heat setting on a hairdryer to dry your skin or wait for it to air dry completely. When there is a lot of heat or humidity, or if you exercise or sweat a lot, your flange may need to be changed more often.
Your pouch may have difficulty getting a good seal between the flange and the bag immediately following surgery. It may cause your pocket to come loose. A good seal around the stoma will become easier as the wound heals.
Living with the pouch
It can be stressful to discover that you require an ostomy.
There is no doubt that living with a bag on your belly is difficult. However, a colostomy can save the lives of millions of people. You will need some time to get comfortable with your colostomy and learn how to troubleshoot. The healthcare team will be able to assist you. Ostomy support groups can also be helpful. This will enable you to talk to people who understand your situation.
A stoma and pouch can go undetected for a long time. Your ostomy and pouch will not be known unless you share them with them. If you do not share it with many people, that's fine. If you have to share, you can do so. You might have to inform your workplace that you cannot lift heavy items.
Wearing loose-fitting tops and bottoms is the best way to conceal your pouch. Keep your pets and young children away from the pocket when they jump on your lap. Also, be cautious when putting on your seatbelt. In some cases, the lap belt crosses the stoma area.
Pack extra supplies when traveling. When traveling by plane, do not pack all your supplies in your checked luggage. Before you travel, you might also want to limit the amount of food you eat and be aware of what you eat. For example, certain foods can cause people to have gas.
Odor control products are available in liquid and solid forms. Some products are put in pouches, while others are taken orally. You may also want to empty the pocket frequently.
Always keep an extra emergency kit with supplies like pouches, different precut flanges, rolls of tape, and wet wipes.
Tracking your stool
You may pass stools after surgery, depending on the type you have. Colostomy patients may experience constipation due to blockage. Observe bowel movements closely. Determine if they are hard or soft and how frequent they are. If you want your stools to pass through the colon smoothly, drink plenty of water. Laxatives can help keep chairs softer if taken occasionally. Before using them, check with your doctor. You can also increase your intake of fruits, vegetables, and juice.
Colostomy supply near me
Surgery can be performed as soon as a few days after diagnosis. Most colon cancers can be removed during surgery, but some cannot. Removing a large portion of the colon or allowing the colon time to heal might involve a colostomy. These are usually temporary or permanent.
You should speak with your doctor to fully understand what will happen after using medical colostomy supplies. But in case if you need any colostomy medical supplies in Denver, Sky Medical Supplies can be your best choice. We have a large collection of colostomy products at a single place. You can visit anytime in the day or all weekdays.