Living with a stoma after bowel cancer surgery

Bowel Cancer UK says a stoma is an opening on the abdomen where a section of bowel is brought out, that a reversible stoma is formed to let the bowel heal and a permanent one when the two ends cannot be joined, and that the surgeon may not know which you need until the operation has started; you meet the stoma care specialist nurse beforehand, who shows you the equipment, may mark the site in ink and supports you afterwards while you learn to look after it. The NHS says recovery usually takes around eight weeks, that you eat a low-fibre diet at first while the bowel heals, that you should avoid strenuous activity or heavy lifting for eight weeks while the tummy muscles heal, and that you wait until you have recovered before driving. On equipment: a one-piece bag has a sticky back that comes off whole, a two-piece has a separate sticky ring that stays in place while only the bag changes, and some bags drain into the toilet while others are closed and changed when full. With a permanent colostomy the GP gives a prescription to order bags free on the NHS; with a temporary one you may need to pay. On eating, Cancer Research UK says it normally takes about six to eight weeks for the bowel to settle, then most people return to their usual foods, introducing one food a day and keeping a diary; onions, cabbage, sprouts, strongly spiced or garlicky food, beer and gassy drinks and very rich or fatty food are the usual causes of wind and smell. With an ileostomy the small bowel is narrower, so celery, tough fruit skins, nuts and mushrooms can cause a temporary blockage with pain and cramps, more fluid is lost so urine should stay a pale straw colour through the day, and the team may suggest something salty because sodium is lost too. The NHS lists the stoma problems the nurse handles: hernia around the stoma, retraction, prolapse and skin damage. Medicines designed to dissolve slowly may not work with a colostomy and can pass straight into the bag, so ask about liquid or powder forms rather than stopping anything. Work, sport and swimming are all possible; Cancer Research UK says the stoma should not stop favourite pastimes and the stoma nurse can advise on protecting it. Colostomy UK adds practical detail on ordering supplies, returning to work, relationships and the RADAR key for accessible toilets.