When dealing with a complicated procedure that significantly changes your daily routine, it is often the little things that matter the most.
Being able to maintain your dignity, keep up with your hygiene, and feel comfortable in your skin.
They’re the basics that keep you sane through it all.
Good news! You can maintain pretty much the same level of hygiene and live with as much dignity as you experienced before your ostomy surgery. You might have to make a few adjustments, but it’s a small sacrifice to make for an improved quality of life.
Why You Might Need a Stoma
There are multiple reasons why you might need a stoma as you grow older. People usually require surgery for a stoma due to compromised bodily functions. As you age, you might be more susceptible to certain medical conditions.
These include colorectal cancer which ultimately involves a removal of part of the colon or rectum. It may also result from inflammatory bowel diseases including Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. This requires full or partial removal of areas of the intestines which have become diseased over time.
Often the reason for the stoma isn’t linked to a major medical issue. As you age your pelvic floor muscles might weaken which can lead to various issues like bladder dysfunction. Thus, a stoma surgery may simply come through a need to improve your quality of life.
How to Look After a Stoma at Home?
Although looking after a stoma is generally easy in the long run, you might encounter a few problems at the start. When your stoma is first created you may need physical and psychological support as you get used to it.
This involves both healthcare professionals as well as caregivers who can handle the basic post-surgery requirements as well as educate you on the stoma routine. This significantly reduces apprehension as well as any anxiety attached to the change.
Once a stoma becomes fully functional you can request the nursing staff or caregiver to take a step back. As you get the hang of it you may find yourself requiring less and less help.
Essential Things to Take Care of for a Comfortable Experience
Here are a few tips to keep in mind for ultimate comfort;
1. Taking Care of Hygiene
The cleaner your ostomy site the more in control you’ll feel. The stoma as well as the surrounding skin are pretty sensitive and must be regularly cleaned to prevent any irritation or infection.
Warm water and a gentle soap are your best bet. However, it is usually advised that you speak to your primary healthcare provider before you settle on a soap or skincare product. If you are looking for something specific such as an ostomy deodorant, make sure you rely on a company with great knowledge, experience, and reviews.
2. Regular Inspections
Get that stoma checked as regularly as possible or at least when you notice something wrong. Different kinds of ostomies require varying care and it is important to educate yourself so you can spot any warning signs.
Some of these signs may include swelling of the stoma, a change in color, redness around the stoma site, and much more. Don’t shy away from visiting the ER if you notice anything different.
3. Changing the Pouch
The more frequently you monitor your stoma site and change that stoma pouch accordingly, the fewer the chances of irritation or infection. Doing this regularly also makes the entire process easier as you get used to the routine over time.
Ensure you position yourself properly and ensure a secure fit each time you change the ostomy bag.
Pro Tip: Keep emergency supplies ready to prepare yourself for occasional leaks or pouch failures. This is especially useful if you are out and about. The more extra pouches, wipes, and other ostomy care products you carry with you the more relaxed you’ll feel on your night out.
Taking Care of Yourself and Your Stoma
Don’t forget a healthy diet as well as staying hydrated throughout the day. This ensures better bowel movements and it is also generally beneficial for older people who are more susceptible to sudden dehydration.
As for your stoma, the best way to care for it is to avoid excessive sweating, applying oil or products containing alcohol around the stoma site, and regularly shaving so the stoma fits perfectly!
As the days turn into weeks and weeks turn into months it will get a lot easier to manage the stoma and resume all the activities you enjoyed in the past.
