About the Ostomy Community
Popular Forum Topics
What's the best way of telling someone you have an ostomy?
Hi there, I need some advice please...I've been going to my local nightclub for 5 years, I guy who's also gone there all that time (and longer apparently) is suddenly showing an interest in me. He's very shy, quiet and hardly talks to anyone but his close mate, they're both bachelors, it was my new 'hairdo' (my wig since hair loss due to low dose chemo for my crohn's) that did it, they were lightheartedly arguing whether it was me or not! I started chatting to the quiet guy, I've only ever said ...
Views: 1129 Replies: 12
Ostomy diet
Is there such a thing as an ostomy diet? I am barely getting any output from my colostomy in at least a month, and I have absolutely no appetite. Last year I was in hospital with what they thought was a partial small bowel obstruction. My "diet" has been small amount of baby oatmeal and some coffee at breakfast: maybe cup of soup for lunch. Small amount of yogurt, jars of baby fruit. I tried to eat small amounts of well-cooked green beans with the carrots today. I've tried to dri...
Views: 512 Replies: 10
Is it possible to be regular with an ostomy?
Hello Everyone! Is it possible to become regular with an ostomy? My dr told me to drink Citrucel everynight to become regular. I find its all day long, Is it possible to train your colon?
Views: 727 Replies: 11
Recycling ostomy bags???
Has anyone ever heard of cleaning ostomy bags after use? I am all for recycling, but I am also concerned about the health risks.
Views: 904 Replies: 15
Disposing of an ostomy bag at a friend's house
I have an ileostomy and i like to use closed end pouches and change them twice a day. I can carry an Ostaway Bag (black, thick, zip-lock) with me and keep a fresh closed end ostomy bag with me in my pocket. Often when I am at someone's house i need to dispose of one bag and put on a fresh one. I really prefer using the closed-ended pouches and i know there isn't any smell if they are put inside the black, thick, Ostaway Zip-Lock Bag. My question is; do you think it is o.k. to throw this in s...
Views: 1273 Replies: 9
Naming my ostomy
I never thought of naming my stoma. I guess by now I would have to call it "old timer" as I have had it for 40 years now.....
Views: 575 Replies: 6
Collection of tips from people with an Ostomy >>
OSTOMY ADVICE
|
Disposing of your colostomy bag
There are a few ways to dispose of your used ostomy bag:
- If out of home: Most toilets have a disposal unit for sanitary towels or an ordinary bin. Just drain the bag into the toilet, wrap it in a disposal bag then place it in the unit or the bin.
- If at home: Some areas offer yellow bag collection whereby you put all of your used (empty) stoma bags into a yellow bag which gets specially collected by your local authority. If this service is not available in your area just empty your stoma appliance as usual, rinse it out, place it into a sealed bag and then into another large disposal bag.
- Flushable pouch inserts (inner pouch): These inserts are placed in the pouch before use. When the pouch is full you remove the insert from the bag and flush it away. It is completely biodegradable and works in all toilets.
Ostomy, Swimming and other Activities
After recovering from your ostomy surgery you should be able to take part in most sports and activities: swimming, dancing, playing games, skiing, cycling, etc. One-piece swim wear is best for female swimmers. Men should opt for a higher waist band on their swimming shorts.
As there is an increased risk of developing hernias after an ostomy surgery it is recommended that heavy weights are not lifted. It is also recommended that all ostomates wear a support belt during exercise.
For contact sports (like marshal arts) or any other activities that might damage your ostomy appliances it is recommended to use a pouch protector. This is a hard plastic cover that attaches over the bag and protects from an impact.
Ostomy and Relationships
After the ostomy surgery it will take you some time to recover and get back to your normal life and rebuild your self esteem. It is only natural to feel shy about your body. Don't isolate yourself from your family, friends and loved once. You will find they are very responsive and will want to do everything they possibly can to support you. If you feel the need to share your feelings and get advice, you can find plenty of information online in forums, chat groups and other support sites. A great place for meeting other ostomates is MeetAnOstoMate.com
Ostomy and Foods
Please read this great article on ostomy and foods.
Disclaimer: The text presented on these pages is for your information only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult your healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns.