An ostomy is a procedure that creates a hole in the skin. This opening can be permanent or temporary. An ostomy bag is used to collect waste. It can be difficult for you to live with an ostomy bag. The good news is that you can take the following steps in order to make it easier.
Wear Appropriate Clothing
You can wear the same clothing that you wore before you got your ostomy bag. The pouches can easily be concealed by the clothing that you wear. The ostomy bag also has a barrier that conceal the odors. The only time that you can smell the waste is when you empty the bag. There is special clothing that you can wear in order to make you more comfortable.
Activities
An ostomy should not interfere with your ability to do your normal activities. Most people who have an ostomy bag are able to go to school, work and exercise. They can even have sexual intercourse. Keep in mind that if you sweat too much, then the bag that holds your ostomy bag in place can loosen.
Bathing Your Body
It is important for you to keep the area near the ostomy bag dry and clean. Avoid using oily skin products. You should also avoid using products that have alcohol in them. You may have to shave the hair around the ostomy bag so that you can get it to stick. Ask your doctor about specific things that you need to do in order to make it easier to bathe.
Dietary Considerations
You cannot control when your ostomy bag fills up. The type of diet that you follow will determine how much waste fills the bag. You may want to avoid foods that can cause you to develop gas. This includes spicy foods, beans, onions and cabbage. You may also need to avoid food that can be hard to chew, such as popcorn and nuts. Those types of foods can cause you to become constipated or develop diarrhea.
Additionally, you need to drink plenty of water. You are more likely to get dehydrated with an ostomy bag because your stools may be more watery.
Taking Medication
It can be harder for your body to absorb medication if you use an ostomy bag. That is why it is important to talk to your physician about the types of medications that you take. Your doctor may recommend that you switch to liquid medications because they tend to absorb better.
How to Avoid Having An Accident
Your baby has to be emptied several times throughout the day. Do not allow your bag to get full. In fact, you need to empty the bag before it gets half-way full. You need to bring your ostomy supplies with you every time that you leave the house. You may have to change the way that you plan your meals.
Getting Emotional Support
Embarrassment is a common thing that people feel when they have to use an ostomy bag. They may also feel embarrassed. That is why it is a good idea to reach to others for emotional support. You can even join a support group.
