I'm home from the colostomy surgery. It's been a week. Here's a summary: it went as planned, but my leg fell out of the leg holder thing and it hyperextended, so now I can't lift it. So before leaving the hospital, I had a complete leg workup. No break. No torn ligaments. I have a referral to PT for when I can start PT.
I'm managing pain with Tylenol and my MS drugs. I'm shocked at how swollen my belly looks. My husband promises it will be better over time. I'm trying to stay positive. As a person with body image issues, this is a challenge. But not as big as…
Odor—I can smell the poo in the bag, and when emptying, I have to wear a mask. I'm very sensitive to all smells, so I shouldn't be surprised. I have the Hollister lubricant deodorant, but I don't see that it helps. I requested a sample of a similar product from Coloplast. Are there other companies?
When can I drive? There's nothing in my discharge paperwork except to resume activity as tolerated.
I assume that clothes will eventually stop hurting, but so far they all hurt.
Thank you everyone for your advice and the before-surgery assurances.