Dealing with Diarrhea with a Stoma

Living with a stoma can present unique challenges, and one common concern is dealing with diarrhea. Of course, this can be a sensitive and sometimes overwhelming issue. That’s why we put together this guide for dealing with diarrhea with a stoma.

Whether you have a colostomy, ileostomy, or other type of stoma, the following sections aim to provide valuable information and support. Everyone is different, so consider this a general guide to help you get started and clarify some options. Be sure to consult your healthcare professional for personalized advice and solutions.

Is Diarrhea Common With a Colostomy?

Diarrhea can indeed occur in individuals with a colostomy, although it’s not an inevitable part of life with a stoma. Many people with colostomies experience normal, formed stools. However, several factors can lead to more frequent output, looser stools, or diarrhea.

It’s important to note that what constitutes “diarrhea” for someone with a colostomy might differ from the traditional definition. If you’re experiencing watery output or a significant increase in the frequency of emptying your pouch, you may be dealing with diarrhea.

What Causes Diarrhea With a Stoma?

Here are some common factors that can contribute to looser or more frequent output:

1. Diet: Certain foods and beverages can lead to looser stools. These may include spicy foods, high-fat meals, caffeine, alcohol, artificial sweeteners, raw fruits, and vegetables. 
2. Medications: Some medications, particularly antibiotics, can disrupt your digestive system and lead to diarrhea.
3. Infections: Gastrointestinal infections, such as food poisoning or stomach flu, can cause diarrhea in individuals with or without a stoma.
4. Dehydration: Not drinking enough water can lead to looser stools as your body tries to conserve water.
5. Stress and anxiety: Emotional factors can affect your digestive system and potentially lead to diarrhea.
6. Recent surgery: In the weeks following stoma surgery, it’s common to experience looser stools as your body adjusts.
7. Underlying health conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, can cause periodic bouts of diarrhea.

How to Treat Diarrhea With a Stoma

Managing diarrhea with a stoma requires a multi-faceted approach. Here are some strategies to help you cope:

1. Stay hydrated: This is crucial, especially when dealing with diarrhea. Drink plenty of water and consider electrolyte-rich beverages to replace lost fluids and minerals.
2. Adjust your diet: Add foods that help firm up your stools. These include bananas, white rice, apple sauce, white toast, etc. We have a full list below.
3. Use stool-thickening agents: Over-the-counter products like Metamucil or Imodium can help thicken your output. Be sure to talk to your healthcare provider before beginning a new medication.  
4. Empty your pouch more frequently: This can help prevent leaks and skin irritation.
5. Check your appliance: Ensure your stoma bag is properly fitted to prevent leaks.
6. Practice good hygiene: Clean the skin around your stoma carefully to prevent infection.
7. Consider probiotic supplements: These can help restore balance to your gut bacteria, potentially reducing diarrhea. Again, consult your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.
8. Manage stress: Try relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation to help reduce stress-induced diarrhea.

How Can I Thicken My Stool With a Colostomy?

Thickening your stool output can make managing your colostomy easier and more comfortable. Here are some effective methods:

1. Increase soluble fiber: Gradually add soluble fiber to your diet through foods like oatmeal or supplements like Metamucil. Remember to increase your fluid intake when adding fiber.
2. Reduce fluid intake during meals: Try drinking most of your fluids between meals rather than with food.
3. Use stool-thickening medications: Products like loperamide (Imodium) can help slow digestion and thicken output. Always use as directed and consult your healthcare provider.
4. Try natural remedies: Some people find success with natural options like psyllium husk or chia seeds, which absorb water and can help thicken stool.

Foods That Thicken Stool in Colostomy

Incorporating certain foods into your diet can naturally help thicken your stool. Here’s a list of foods that many colostomy patients find helpful:

• Bananas
• White rice
• Applesauce
• Tapioca
• Cheese (particularly hard cheeses)
• Pasta
• White bread or toast
• Boiled potatoes (without skin)
• Pretzels
• Yogurt (especially Greek yogurt)

Remember, everyone’s body reacts differently to foods. This is a general list, and some items might work better than others for your personal case. It’s a good idea to keep a food diary to track which foods work best for managing your stoma output.

Helpful Products for Managing Diarrhea With a Stoma

At Medical Monks, we offer a range of products designed to help you manage diarrhea and maintain comfort with your stoma:

1. Coloplast Brava Protective Powder: This powder helps absorb moisture and protect the skin around your stoma, which is especially useful during bouts of diarrhea.
2. Trio Pearls – Gelling & Odor Control Sachets: These sachets turn liquid stool into a gel, making it easier to manage and reducing the risk of leaks. It also helps with odor control. 
3. Hollister M9 Odor Eliminator Drops: Helps neutralize odors, which can be more noticeable with looser stools.
4. Safe n Simple Peri-Stoma Cleanser: Gentle on the skin and effective for cleaning, which is crucial when dealing with frequent output.
5. Coloplast Brava Elastic Barrier Strips: These can provide extra security to your pouching system during periods of looser output.

Always consult your healthcare provider about the best ways to manage your situation.

Conclusion

Dealing with diarrhea when you have a stoma can be challenging, but with the right knowledge and tools, it’s manageable. Remember, what works for one person may not work for another, so it may take some time to find the best strategies for you.

At Medical Monks, we’re here to support you on your ostomy journey. Your comfort and quality of life are our top priorities. If you need advice on supplies, don’t hesitate to contact one of our team members.