Accidentally Swallowed Gum with an Ileostomy - Risks?

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3044
freedancer
Jan 11, 2019 12:38 am

This is probably a dumb question but I accidentally swallowed a piece of gum.  Can this cause a blockage of my ileostomy??  I do not chew gum much and just forgot and swallowed it.

Two bags
Jan 11, 2019 1:24 am

Hi, not a dumb question at all. I have an ileostomy and get blockages from certain foods; however, I have never swallowed a piece of gum. I have thought about it happening to me, and yes, I would be concerned, depending on the size of the piece of gum. I would imagine gum does not break down from digestive juices. I can't say for sure, as it has not happened to me. Please let us know what happened; it's an interesting question.

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Bill
Jan 11, 2019 6:57 am

Yes! please let us know the outcome (or output). I have had bits of solid food that have remained intact and passed through without any problem so, I would presume that gum would do the same.

As two bags says - an interesting question!

Best wishes

Bill 

Xerxes
Jan 12, 2019 3:43 am

Assuming that you swallowed a normal size piece you should have no problem If, on the other hand, you swallowed an over-size wad then you might run into trouble.

 

Xerxes

britathrt60
Jan 17, 2019 5:37 am

I think a normal size piece of gum will be ok....good luck.

 

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