I am now 7 weeks post-op and have a better understanding of so many things:
· Do lots of reading and research… the more you know, the easier it is.
· Contact ostomy supply companies for free samples and find an appliance that works best for you.
· Niltac spray is the best adhesive remover!!
· COOK, CUT, CHEW
· Drink water and lots of it!
· If there is a bit of pressure around your new stoma, don't panic; in my experience, it is from really thick output.
· Walk every day, as much as you can tolerate.
· Don't be afraid to do some gentle stretches and some gentle core strengthening exercises.
· Changing your appliance may take 5 minutes or 2 hours; take the time you need.
· You can touch your stoma; it won't hurt you, and you won't hurt it.
· Your stoma nurse is your new best friend.
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Many come here for advice or to give advice, others have found good friends, and some have even built long-lasting relationships.
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The good news is that you can avoid them with some small changes in your diet.
How to Manage Emotions with LeeAnne Hayden | Hollister
I'm 7 weeks out today, December 8, 2022 was my day. I haven't tried the Niltac spray, but I really like the Coloplast Brava spray. I'll see if I can get a sample and try it.
I've been walking a lot, started on a spin bike a couple of days ago, been doing light core exercises and light weights, just curls while sitting down.
I have worried about stretching. What kind of stretches are you doing?
You have summarized it well! Welcome to the club!
What I have observed is stoma care is an art. Everybody has their favorite products and techniques. It does not matter as long as your peri-stomal skin is intact.
When your ET leaves you will feel like you lost your best friend.
Have any of you had problems keeping your bag on? I had a loop ileostomy almost 5 months ago. The nurses are gone, I tried 6-7 different pouching systems, and yet the bag slowly peels away from my skin within 24 hours or less. I have a lot of output because I eat a lot and need to gain 30 lbs. I've tried some heavy-duty adhesives, and they sting for hours! And they still don't keep my bags on.
The leak always starts on my right side, whether I'm asleep or awake. Any ideas?
Thanks all,
AllieKIM
For more tips and resources, check out our Ostomy Learning Center.