Ileostomy Dehydration
Individuals living with an ileostomy are at high risk for dehydration. It is important for them to know the signs and symptoms of dehydration as well as preventative measures. These symptoms can include thirst, dry tenting skin, abdominal cramps, rapid heart rate, confusion and low blood pressure.
Preventing dehydration will become an [...]
Ileostomy Care
GENERAL INFORMATION:
What is an Ileostomy?
An ileostomy is the result of a surgery in which the lower part of the small intestines( the ileum) is brought through the abdomen. An opening is made in the abdominal wall and a stoma is formed. The stoma is usually found on the lower right side of the abdomen. Stool [...]
Ileostomy Products or Appliances
Ileostomies leave patients with a stoma on their abdomen from which stool is excreted. Generally the stool will empty into a pouch or bag attached to the patients abdomen with adhesive. The excreted stool is often acidic type liquid and can cause severe irritation to the skin surrounding the stoma if not properly taken care [...]
Important things to know
Things to Know When Problems Occur
Stoma Size- Knowing the size of the stoma will assist in finding the right size appliance for an ileostomy. Most ostomy supply companies will provide a chart with pre-cut holes. By placing the chart over the stoma, the size can be quickly determined.
Protruding or Recessed- If the stoma is protruding, [...]
Ileostomy Diet
Ileostomy Diet Considerations
Individuals with an ileostomy should generally be able to maintain a regular balanced providing all the vitamins, minerals, and calories for a healthy diet after surgery. In some cases, stool consistency may become an issue being more liquid than solid leading to higher stool output and faster dehydration. In these cases, doctors may [...]
Skin Protection
Output from and ileostomy can be very irritating to the skin surrounding the stoma. Without proper attention, the skin can become permanently damaged. Skin around the stoma should look and feel the same as the rest of the abdomen. Following are some tips that may help to minimize skin irritation.
The skin barrier [...]