What is an ileostomy?
An ileostomy is a portion of the small bowel that is brought through the abdominal wall, to allow faeces to be excreted, bypassing the large bowel. It is usually located lower right side of abdomen.
What should the consistency of the ileostomy be like?
The consistency of the motion from an ileostomy is toothpaste/porridge like stool with some wind.
How often should I need to empty my ileostomy?
You should empty your stoma bag between four and six times a day.
What can happen if my ileostomy is too active?
One major risk of having an ileostomy is dehydration. This is related to fluid loss through your stoma.
How will I know if I am dehydrated?
The signs and symptoms of dehydration include:
- Thirst/dry mouth or tongue,
- Dizziness upon standing,
- Weakness,
- A decrease in urination,
- Urine darker in colour,
- Cramps in your abdomen and legs,
- Confusion.
Will the consistency of stool from the ileostomy always be the same?
It is perfectly normal for the consistency of your bowel motions to change during the day.
What should I look out for after my operation?
- diarrhoea caused by illness, tummy upset/food poisoning
- diarrhoea that continues for more than 24 hours
- your stoma has more than 1 litre of stool out in 24 hours
- symptoms of being dehydrated
To avoid dehydration, we advise you to:
- Drink 10 to 12 glasses of oral rehydration solution daily. (This is especially important in warm weather, because you are perspiring more and losing more fluid from your body.)
- Avoid drinking plain water as it can cause the salts in your blood to drop.
- Keep an eye on the output of your stoma.
What should I do if I think I am dehydrated?
Please contact either:
- your stoma nurse or GP during normal working hours
- your stoma nurse can be contacted by calling 0191 445 3152 or via switchboard on 0191 482 0000 ext. 2059 / 3098 / 3173 (Mon-Fri 9am- 4.30pm)
- Ward 12 on 0191 445 2012 / 5912 out of normal working hours
- Ward 27 on 0191 445 3005 / 3044 out of normal working hours
Is there any medication that can reduce the ileostomy output?
Yes. You may be able to take loperamide / Imodium to reduce the amount of stool that your ileostomy produces. After your surgery, this should be started by your GP, your stoma nurse or the ward.