Leaks and Skin problems
Leakage and skin problems are probably the most frequently asked questions on the message boards and in the chatrooms. They probably apply to every ostomate at some stage, usually in the early days which can be a blow to self-confidence. Fortunately there is plenty of help at hand. (It includes links for advice on prolapses).
This page will take you to a list of links which can help:
Leaks and Skin problems
Which appliance to use?
Bags, pouches, appliances….whatever you choose to call them, come in many shapes and sizes. The trick is to find the right one for you and your skin type. – Shaz
Which appliance to use?
Odour
As long as there is no leaks, there will be no odour. When you empty your bag, now that can be a problem! – Shaz
This page will give you links to suggestions to minimise this.
Odour
What can I eat?
Unless you have an underlying health problem, your diet should be pretty unrestricted. You may, however, find that a particular food causes you problems. You will find links to food charts and advice on this page:
What can I eat?
Blockages
Blockages can be a problem with ileostomies and colostomies. Some people are more prone to them than others. This page will give you tips on what the signs are and how to deal with one.
Blockages
Rectum Concerns
The rectum can cause problems, whether it is still in place or been removed. Here are a collection of questions about the rectum, which include:
Phantom Pains
Bleeding, mucous etc.
Rectum Concerns
Can I Irrigate?
Many people with a colostomy of the sigmoid or descending colon can irrigate. It’s a good way of achieving faecal continence for 24 to 48 hours. Some people even manage to stay stool free for 72 hours, though they are the exceptions. But check this procedure with your specialists first, since they have seen your guts. And discuss the procedure with your ET nurse, he or she will patiently describe the steps to take, will discuss what new appliances you need and tell you how to get started. – Mich
Can I Irrigate?
Emotions and Relationships
There can be body-image issues after stoma surgery. This page contains links for topics about emotions, relationships and sex. It includes feeling depressed or down.
Emotions and Relationships
Pregnancy
Pregnancy with a stoma is still possible. This page will give you advice and enable you to email ostomate mothers.
Pregnancy
Travel
Ideas to make travelling as easy as possible
Travel
Am I Disabled?
Useful advice from Terry Gallagher regarding your stoma and the definition of disability. Applies to ostomates, those with internal pouches and those whose stomas have been reversed. Advice applies to the U.K. only.
Am I Disabled?
Other ‘Frequently Asked Questions’ Pages
Other lists of questions.
Other ‘Frequently Asked Questions’ Pages
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