Colostomy and ileostomy, sometimes known as bowel diversions, are both measures taken by doctors when your digestive system is compromised in some way.
These procedures may initially feel very strange and limiting. But many people find that they can live as they did before.
Here, we go over both colostomy and ileostomy. We’ll look at some key facts, the differences between the two, and how to care for your colostomy or ileostomy.
What you should know
Colostomy and ileostomy are both surgical procedures. These surgeries create an opening from either the colon or the intestine to the outside of your body. This is done via the abdomen. This opening is called a stoma. The purpose of a stoma is so that bodily waste can exit your body.
These surgeries are either made as temporary measures or as permanent ones. More often, permanent colostomy and ileostomy are the result of the removal of the lower half of the rectum and the sphincter. This is usually resulting from a serious disease or illness, such as bowel or colon cancer.
Temporary colostomy and ileostomy may be enacted because the doctor wants part of your digestive system to heal. This might be the case following a surgery in the area.
Many people are worried about having a stoma, and this is a natural concern. Talking to a therapist about your fears and worries is a good way to help relieve some of the psychological burden you may be experiencing.
Here at Haym Salomon Home, our experienced and sensitive staff is always on hand to listen to your concerns.
The difference between colostomy and ileostomy
A colostomy creates an opening from the colon and an ileostomy has an opening from the last part of the small intestine.
Because the stomas are located in different places and are connected to different parts of your digestive system, there are differences in how active each stoma is. By active, we mean the amount of faecal matter produced daily.
A stoma appliance for an ileostomy may need to be emptied around 5 times per day. And a stoma appliance for a colostomy may only need to be emptied once per day.
Exercise
Regular and gentle exercise is a great way to keep your digestive system in good health following colostomy and ileostomy.
At Haym Salomon Home we provide physical therapy suited to our patients and residents who have a stoma.
Caring for your colostomy or ileostomy
Learning how to care for your stoma and your stoma appliance (or pouching system) are things that we teach many of our patients. We do this because some people may feel that this is an aspect of self-care that they’d like to look after themselves.
If that sounds like you, our staff with make sure that you are equipped with all the knowledge you need. For others, we take an individualized approach and offer care as needed to each patient or resident.
Nutrition is very, very important after a colostomy or ileostomy. For this reason, our menu is made up of healthful foods that benefit the digestive system and are well-suited to our residents who have an ostomy.
If you or your loved one need care for your colostomy or ileostomy, or have questions regarding it, please come in and see us at Haym Salomon Home for Nursing and Rehabilitation in Brooklyn.