Getting a Stoma: Addressing Complications

When preparing for a surgical stoma, there are undoubtedly some concerns about potential complications. Like with any surgery, a surgical procedure creating a stoma comes with some risks. Doctors recommend surgical stomas because they believe that they will improve the outcomes of your condition. They will likely review the benefits and risks of the surgery and describe potential complications and their chances. Issues can arise with the stoma opening itself, as well as the area around the stoma, known as the peristomal skin. However, many of these complications can be managed with awareness, proper care, and communication with your medical team. 

Stoma Complications

Studies in Denmark and Canada have found that a major contributing factor to problems with peristomal skin disorders is that. While a significant portion of people who had a stoma had a complication with the peristomal skin, only a minority of people were concerned about it. Most of the people with the complication also did not seek medical help. Although the peristomal skin can have significant rates of complications, especially between six months and two years after stoma surgery, most people do not recognize the risk or know how to address it. There are often no formal procedures in place to follow up after the stoma surgery. However, risk factors for peristomal complications can often be predicted before the surgery takes place.

A good way to prepare for stoma surgery is to discuss certain information with your medical team. First, to determine whether you have any risk factors for complications after surgery. Second, to establish a postoperative follow-up schedule with your surgeon or Enterostomal Therapy Nurse. This way, you will have a system in place to contact in case of any questions or concerns, and also identify and address any potential complications after surgery. 

Addressing Risk Factors

There are some factors to look out for after getting stoma surgery. These can be addressed relatively easily as long as they are addressed early. Consult with your surgeon for information about what a stoma and the surrounding skin contours should look like. Then, you can keep an eye on the area as you recover and address any concerns with your doctor. If your stoma is not in an ideal configuration, it can be corrected with methods such as appropriate pouching. 

For example, excessive weight fluctuation can cause complications to the skin surrounding the stoma. The stoma may also shrink a few weeks after surgery. These two factors may cause the flange around the edge of the stoma to need adjustment. These concerns can be addressed to your medical team and see if flange resizing is needed during your next flange change. 

While the thought of surgery can be worrying, the main thing is to have a clearly laid out plan with the medical professionals involved in your surgery. By checking in and being aware of your body after surgery, you should be able to head off major complications. Be aware and proactive when caring for your stoma after surgery. Your surgeon likely recommended a stoma because they believe it can improve your life, and with proper awareness and follow-up, you can have a smoother recovery. 

 

Different Types of Ostomy Barriers

There are many types of ostomy barriers. Ostomy barriers can be made from a variety of materials, and they serve different purposes. The most common type is the adhesive barrier used to cover the stoma (opening) when you go swimming or participate in other water-related activities that might cause leakage. This adhesive barrier is a typically waterproof material that sticks to the skin and provides an airtight seal. Some ostomy barriers can be worn during light activity, such as those who lead active lifestyles or participate in sports like golfing. An adhesive barrier is also used after bowel movements when you need extra protection from leakage. It's essential to know how to use ostomy barriers properly.

Another type is an external pouch that holds your pouching system outside your clothing and covers it with pants or skirts. This style of ostomy barrier makes it easier for you to wear clothes without worrying about leaks getting on them. The external pouch is worn over the pouching system and clothing but is removed when changing your ostomy appliance. It is possible to buy pre-made clothing that will work with your ostomy system, but you can also make some clothes yourself.

Common external pouches are the belt or suspender type, where a strap goes around your waist, and another strap goes over each shoulder, attaches in the back, so they help hold up the pouch. One type is a belt that connects to your waist and then loops through the back of your pants or skirt-like suspenders. This style can be more convenient for those who work in healthcare because scrubs are already part of the typical uniform.

Ostomy belts are another type of external pouching system that goes around your waist. There are also elastic or fabric pouches that you can attach to your belt or clothing items with velcro straps cheaper than buying pre-made vests like those for ostomates who work in healthcare.

There are also adhesive belts for wearing an ostomy pouch; they tend to be more expensive than other external pockets. This style is similar to the disposable adhesives that doctors use during surgery or when you get a tattoo because it's made with medical-grade materials instead of typical fabric. An advantage is that you won't have to worry about adjusting the pouch or having it slip down your body. They're made of high-quality materials and will last for years; these typically come in different sizes, so you can get one that fits well and provides a comfortable feel.

The third type of ostomy barrier is the internal pouch which slips into your underwear and holds your colostomy bag inside. This type of ostomy barrier is not expected, but some people prefer it because it prevents the colostomy bag from touching their skin. An internal pouch also provides more protection against leaks than an external pouch or belt type of ostomy barrier. However, you can buy pre-made underwear with a pocket for holding your colostomy bag, and you can also make your own.

 The last type is the ostomy wrap which goes around your waist or hips instead of a belt. It's designed to hold your pouch in place without being visible under clothing; an advantage over other styles is that they're less likely to slip down or cause pain when worn for long periods. Ostomy wraps are typically made of soft, elastic materials instead of the stiffer fabrics used in belts or pouches, which can be uncomfortable for some people.

 

How Ulcerative Coilitis Is Treated

Treating ulcerative colitis involves more than one would expect. You have to consider your symptoms and the time of the disease's occurrence. Luckily, there are various constructive medication and treatment solutions you can use. 

While the treatment of ulcerative colitis involves numerous techniques, this guide looks at the major highlights:

Prescriptions

There are many categories of medications that you can use to address ulcerative colitis, including:

Anti Inflammatories 

These are drugs that are helpful as the first line of treatment against the disease and can include:

• 5-aminosalicylates, which you can consume in various ways, including orally or as a suppository. The common types include Delzicol and Dipentum.

• Corticosteroids such as Hydrocortisone and Prednisone. These are suitable for moderate to severe cases of the disease because of these drugs' potency. Some side effects of excessive usage including increased blood pressure, emotional disability, and various others. 

  
  

Immune System Suppressors 

These medications help regulate the inflammation that occurs due to the immune system's response mechanism. The drugs in this category include:

• Asian and Imuran fall in the category of immunosuppressant's, and they work by adjusting the production of the body's DNA molecules. 

• You can use Gengraf and Sandimmune, which medical health experts prescribe to people who have struggled with other medications. A good example would be Cyclosporine. 

Antibiotics 

These refer to medication that health experts prescribe for any health issues that might have occurred to the colon. However, people with Ulcerative Colitis sometimes have to avoid using the drug as it can lead to diarrhea.

Some researchers have also shown the strong relationship between patients who use antibiotics and the occurrence of Inflammatory Bowel Disease.

 Over the Counter Therapies 

These refer to medications that help control the symptoms that can occur due to ulcerative colitis. However, they work well alongside prescription drugs, as they only suppress some of the diseases' symptoms. The common OTC medications can include:

• Antidiarrheal medications help regulate unusual bowel movements. A good example would be loperamide, but you have to use it with caution. 

• Pain relievers work well for addressing issues such as mild pain, with a good example being Tylenol. 

 Complementary Medicine (CAM) 

While some medications are highly effective for controlling the symptoms of Ulcerative Colitis, many experts believe more research should occur in this field. Here are the common drugs that fall in this category:

• Probiotics or "stomach-friendly bacteria" help suppress the effects of the disease and compromised bower functions. 

• You can use Aloe Vera gel, which one can extract from the inside of the plan using DIY techniques. 

Lifestyle Changes 

Similar to all other health issues, making lifestyle changes can considerably impact the management of ulcerative colitis. The common suggestions include:

•  You have to avoid spicy foods because they can irritate the bowel and lead to various issues like diarrhea. 

•  You also have to Limit fat and fiber consumption because these can worsen your symptoms. 

•  You also have to Avoid alcohol consumption as it's highly acidic and can also irritate your bowel. 

•  Avoid certain medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or NSAIDs such as aspirin. 

  
  
  

Frequently Asked Questions 

Does Ulcerative Colitis Have a Cure?

No, ulcerative colitis has no well-known cure. However, going for treatments such as surgery and using the proper medications can have many benefits.

How Long Will it Take to Treat Ulcerative Colitis?

It takes a few days or weeks for ulcerative colitis to be healthy effectively. In some cases, remission can occur for months, depending on the treatment approach you choose.