Colostomy Care

Different problems can happen with a colostomy, either right away or years later. Let your doctor know if you have any of the following symptoms or problems:

• Your stoma is swollen or larger than usual.
• Your stoma is smaller than usual.
• You have a rash or sores around your stoma.
• The inside of the stoma sticks out through the opening.
• You have diarrhoea.
• You have sudden belly pain, cramps, or nausea.
• You are dehydrated. Dehydration is when the body loses too much water. Symptoms of dehydration include not making as much urine or having dark yellow urine, or feeling thirsty, tired, dizzy, or confused.
• You haven’t had any gas or bowel movements for 4 to 6 hours (during the day). These symptoms could mean that your stoma is blocked.

You should be able to live an active and normal life with your colostomy. But many people worry about the following things:

• Clothes – You do not require to wear special clothes. Other people won’t be able to see your bag under your clothes.
• Baths and showers – You can take a bath or shower with or without your bag on.
• Sports – You will probably be able to play most sports. You might want to wear a special belt to protect your bag and keep it in place. Doctors usually recommend that people with a colostomy not play certain contact sports (such as football) or lift weights.
• Swimming – You can swim with your bag on. Make sure to empty your bag before you swim.
• Sex – You can have sex. But you might want to wear a special cover to protect (and hide) your bag during sex.
• Travel – When you travel, be sure to bring extra supplies to manage your colostomy. If you fly, take your supplies in your carry-on bags

It is normal to feel sad, upset, or worried when you have a colostomy. If you have these feelings, try to get help. You can talk with a family member, friend, or counselor. You might also find it helpful to go to a support group for people who have a colostomy.