It takes some time to adjust to your new life after a colostomy. That's normal. You may have many questions, fears, and doubts about this. But don't worry about it. In this article, we try to address those questions you have in a simple, friendly way and educate you.
What is the best time to change the colostomy bag?
This is a problem for many people. The best thing to do is to choose a time when your bowels are less active. Simply put, the bowels are most active after we eat.
- Best times: Make it a habit to empty or change your bag before breakfast or before going to bed at night. Your digestive system is less active during these times, so it's easier to do the job.
- How often should you change your bag?: Generally, changing your bag every 3-5 days is a good idea. You don't need to change it every day. If you forget, write the date on a sticky note on your bag. Or set a reminder on your calendar or phone.
- Emergency: If the skin around your stoma feels itchy or inflamed , it could be a sign that it needs to be changed immediately . This could mean that the bag is leaking. In such cases, don't be lazy and change the bag immediately.
What is a Stoma?
Simply put, this is the part of your colon that is surgically brought to the surface of your abdominal skin and attached to it. This is where stool comes out.
How to care for the skin around the stoma?
It is important to keep the stoma and the skin around it clean, just like the rest of our bodies. But this doesn't necessarily mean that everything is sterile.
- Trim the hair around the stoma with blunt-end scissors or an electric razor. Do not use a razor with blades, as this can cut the skin.
- Never apply oils or ointments to the skin around your stoma. Doing so will prevent your colostomy bag from adhering properly to your skin, making it more likely to leak.
Can you shower with a colostomy?
Yes, you can definitely do it. This is something that many people are afraid of. You can either take a shower with the bag on or take it off. It's completely up to you.
But remember one thing. Even if you take a shower without a bag, some stool may come out of your stoma. This is normal and cannot be controlled.
After you're done showering, open the tape in the bag to dry thoroughly. If you want, you can also dry it with a hair dryer on a low setting .
What do you do when you exercise?
Having a colostomy doesn't mean you have to stop being active. You can do any exercise you like. But if you're playing contact sports, talk to your doctor first.
- To give the bag a good spot to rest while exercising, you can wear stretchy underwear. Place the bag inside your underwear.
- There are pouch covers that you can put on your bag. These not only provide you with comfort, but also help absorb sweat.
Does gaining or losing weight affect the bag?
Yes, absolutely. If you gain or lose more than 5-7 kg (10-15 pounds), it can affect the fit of the pouch. As your stomach changes shape, the size of your stoma can change slightly. This can cause the pouch to not fit properly and cause leaks.
If you experience a significant change in weight like this, it is very important to inform your surgeon or a nurse who has been specially trained in this (Enterostomal Therapy - ET nurse).
What should you be careful about when traveling?
There's no need to stop traveling. But with a little preparation, you can travel without any hassle.
| Fact | Description |
|---|---|
| Keep medical equipment nearby. | Always keep your bags, clips, and all other equipment in your hand luggage . Never put them in your checked luggage. If your luggage is lost or delayed, you could be in a lot of trouble. |
| Take double. | Bring twice as much equipment as you normally need. It will help a lot in case of an emergency. |
| Prepare for an emergency. | If you need help, keep a list of addresses and phone numbers of places that provide equipment. If you are traveling abroad, look online for information about ostomy associations in that country. |
Some other important tips
- Always carry an extra bag: Whenever you leave the house, carry at least one extra bag in your bag. It's invaluable in an emergency.
- Extra Clips: A clip that closes the bag can fall off or break. So keep an extra clip or two nearby. You can also use a rubber band or binder clip in an emergency.
- Try new things at home: If you're starting to use a new type of bag or other product, try it out first on a day when you're at home, when you can be near a bathroom.
When to see a doctor or specialist nurse
If you have any of the following concerns, don't hesitate to see your doctor or an ostomy care nurse (ET nurse) for advice. It's very important for your comfort and health.
| Problem | Description |
|---|---|
| Leakage | If no matter how hard you try, the bag keeps leaking. |
| Skin problems | If the skin around the stoma is red, sore, scaly, inflamed, or itchy. |
| Difficulty finding equipment | If you have difficulty finding places to buy the equipment you need. |
| Mental and social problems | Talk about the mental stress caused by this condition, the impact on marital relationships, or the difficulties facing society. |
| Any other questions? | Talk about any questions you have about pregnancy, or anything that's bothering you about it. |
Take-Home Message
- A colostomy is not the end of life, it's a new beginning. With the right knowledge and management, you can live a completely normal life.
- Keep the skin around your stoma clean and dry. Tell your doctor right away if you notice any itching, burning, or redness.
- Whenever you travel, be sure to bring extra equipment, especially an extra bag or two. Put them in your carry-on bag.
- Talk openly with your doctor or specialist nurse about any questions, concerns, or fears you have. Don't suffer alone. Don't hesitate to ask for help.
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