Tuesday, February 17, 2009

What is a Colostomy? Part 2

Once an individual gets a colostomy, you will definitely be educated about the the care of your colostomy before discharge from a hospital. Having a colostomy is not easy and one has to make a significant number of changes in lifestyle. But with proper education and guidance, living with a colostomy is not difficult. Today, there are also many support groups whch offer assistance, advice and tips.

For proper functioning of a colostomy and living a normal life, one has to pay attention to the following details:

Always know your medications. Many medications can cause constipation or diarrhea- both conditions which can make life with a colostomy difficult.

Eat a healthy diet and avoid foods that cause excessive gas. Nuts, some vegetables and beans are a common cause of gas and should be avoided. Speak to a nutritionist at the hospital about all the dos and don’ts. The internet also has many sites where one can get useful dietary information.

Skin protection. One of the major problems with a colostomy is taking care of the surrounding skin. Always make sure that the area is clean and at the first sign of redness, go to your surgeon.If your colostomy is working fine and you adhere to a decent diet, there is no need for colostomy irrigation.

The advances in surgery, availability of stoma nurses and the newer appliances have greatly improved the management of stomas and the less you mess around with the colostomy, the more enjoyable will be your life be.Having a colostomy is not the end of the world.

Many individuals live their lives to the fullest extent despite a colostomy. The modern colostomy appliances available today can help you adjust your life style, allow you to work, play sports and even have enjoyable sex.

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