LIFE WITH AN OSTOMY

The thought of living with an ostomy can be uncomfortable and even scary. But when it's needed, most quickly realize that it's not nearly as bad as they feared. They get used to it quickly once they know how to take care of the care of the ostomy and themselves. 

Ostomy Basics

An ostomy is where the intestine opens directly to the skin over the abdomen (often called the stomach wall). This is created at an operation because there is a problem with the intestine lower down. An ostomy can empty the intestinal contents (stool, poop, bowel movement or whatever you call it) above the part that has been diseased or damaged. 

• An ileostomy is when the small intestine is used to form the ostomy
• A colostomy is when the large intestine forms the ostomy

The opening as the skin is called a stoma. The stoma looks a little like the inside of the cheeks, red and mist, but puffier. It can bleed when touched, but it doesn't hurt because there aren't any nerve endings. It also doesn't hurt when it empties or is covered by the bag or pouch that holds whatever comes out. 

The good news is that your disease may under better control, and you can participate in most activities. But you may have to modify your diet a bit.