Colostomy Recovery
Colostomy is a serious surgical operation that requires a long term of rehabilitation. During the procedure, your colon is cut and brought outside through the abdominal wall thus creating stoma (artificial opening). Excrements have to be collected in a special colostomy bag that is attached to the opening and is fixated by a special belt. Usually, the procedure is a temporary measure. After a healing process is complete, corrective surgery can be done and no one will ever know about your operation. But it is very important to complete a full course of rehabilitation. Modern technology and medicine provide a lot of goods and devices that help patients to recover without constant discomfort.
Any operation of such a complexity will require some time to recover. Abdominal pain during the first weeks after the operation is treated by medications. Sometimes it takes up to 5 days for the normal function of bowel to restore; during this period of time intravenous feeding is required. Special diet is also a must for people with colostomy.
To avoid any problems you need to learn how to take care of your colostomy, use special devices and materials during any operations with colostomy. Wash your hands before and after changing of a colostomy bag. Clean and moisten your skin with Convatec and Hollister supplies for colostomy and ostomy or at least use mild soap (not recommended). Empty and clean your bag before going to bad and if it is 2/3 full. Always keep all your supplies within an easy reach and buy it in reserve in order to be on the safe side. Don’t lead any active life and no heavy weight lifting is allowed. If you feel any pain or your opening is bleeding, contact your doctor at once.
Remember, that colostomy is just a temporary discomfort and very soon you are to return to your normal active life that, I believe, will be full of happiness.
