Golf Ball-Sized Protrusion Near Stoma: Hernia?

Hello, my husband has had an ostomy since August this year, and three days ago, I noticed on the right side of his stoma, it feels/looks like there is a golf ball-sized protrusion under his skin. What could be the cause? I researched and it mentioned a hernia. I will call the doctor tomorrow for an appointment to check. Is there anyone here with the same situation on how to cure or how to get rid of it? How can it be prevented from becoming worse? Thank you.

Hi Kay,

  It's most likely a hernia forming, which is unfortunately very common with ostomates.  Essentially there's a weak spot in your hubby's abdominal wall and his internal bowels are trying to force their way thru that weak spot.  You can only get rid of it surgically, but the success rate long-term isn't as good as most would like.  That's not to say it can't be fixed, but for many it doesn't stay fixed (but of course for some it does).  Your doc will most likely tell your hubby to keep an eye on it and live with it, unless it continues to get larger or creates problems with his barrier. 

  They make a number of support belts that keep pressure on the bulge to slow down or limit its progression, and they come in a variety of materials, sizes and shapes.  His doc may recommend one or his ostomy nurse can help with that.  If not, you can Google it and find out more info than you need.  The important thing is to make sure it doesn't continue to grow in size or cause problems with the barrier that result in leaks.  

  Many on here have or are dealing with a hernia and I'm sure they can give you some good recommendations on hernia belts, as well as tell you which ones to avoid.  

;O)

Most likely a hernia, but you are doing the right thing by seeing a doctor for professional advice. Hernias can be repaired, but they are often better left alone unless causing problems, as once you've had one, there's a higher risk of getting another one, so it ends up being more surgery again and again. Core exercises are the best thing to do; recent research over the last few years suggests that core exercises may slow the growth of a hernia down or even make them smaller. If you google safe core exercises for stomas, you will see a few guides on how to do them safely. I've had my hernia for around 10 years so far and haven't needed any surgery to repair it.

My surgery was also last Aug and I have exactly the same thing. My ostomy nurse told me it was a hernia and we are actively seeking a support belt for me. My ostomy nurse generally recommends the coloplast belt but I can't comment from personal experience (my situation is complicated by having 2 ostomies). The stealth belt has also been highly recommended.