Stoma Complications and Diet Tips After Ileostomy

Hi all - just undergone an ileostomy 2.5 weeks ago, after only one severe bout of ulcerative colitis (diagnosed with proctitis initially 18 months ago) severe bout did not respond to any medications

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I am recovering at home but now have an infection in my incision (22 inches long) and I believe mucocutaneous separation of my stoma (not quite all the way around).  So although not major complications, just more things to worry about

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I have 2 questions for you all:



1) Mucocutaneous separation: my stoma nurse has said it looks OK! and given me Kaltostat (seaweed) to pack into the gap very day when I change my bag.  I would like to have 100% confidence in the nurse (she's visiting tomorrow), but am worried output will seep into the gap and cause more issues....I've also read about

Pyoderma gangrenosum

(PG) that can be mistaken for this, which is even more serious.  Any advice/ thoughts appreciated.



2) Diet: I want to start eating different foods. Although I am trying different things every day as everyone suggest, any -ve or +ve feedback on the foods below would be useful:



a) smoked salmon, shrimp, prawns, lobster??? I hear the last 3 can cause issues?

b) mexican food eg, guacamole, soured cream, tortillas ( I know salsa should be avoided..)

c) veggies - I've read literature but wondered if there are any specifics people handle better than others - Ive tried carrots, they were OK.



If there are any good sites out there for ileostomy diets , please can you pass this on.



Many thanks

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Two & a half weeks is not very long.

I can't help on your stoma problem, but as far as food is concerned, once you settle down in a few more weeks you will find that you can eat whatever you want.

The only thing that has ever caused me problems is fresh coconuts & I do avoid eating a lot of any nut.

Just returned from a two week sailing holiday in the Virgin Islands.

Ate lots of fish & shellfish including lobster. Drank plenty rum.

Look forward to enjoying the rest of your life

Thanks for the reply. Yes it is still early days in my road to recovery.  I forward to trying some shellfish in about 6 to 12 weeks time then.  Hubby will be pleased!!!!!!