I found the biggest concern is "consistency". Too firm, it'll push the
wafer right off, too loose, you'll be changing bags twice a day. My answer
is *fiber gummies* (I get mine on Amazon or at Wally World), I eat two
every morning and it keeps things in order, consistency-wise. The number
needed completely depends on your diet and water intake.
Aaron Mann
On Thu, Feb 28, 2019 at 8:30 AM Michelle Kephart
wrote:
> Thank you so much, Aaron and Greg! I think I’m going to do it. I’m
> waiting right now to see if my insurance will pre-approve the procedure.
> I’m nervous but also excited to not have to keep such a strict schedule. I
> very much appreciate your tips and tricks!
>
> Michelle
>
>
> On Wed, Feb 27, 2019 at 11:56 AM Aaron Mann wrote:
>
>> Quad of 29 years, I've had my colostomy for 5 years now. Wish I'd done it
>> sooner.
>> Upsides:
>> No hour(s) long bowel program
>> Simple bag change in minutes anywhere, when needed
>> No issues getting stool in any skin abrasions on bottom (causes major
>> issues)
>> Greatly reduced chance "accidents" requiring a complete change of
>> clothing and shower
>> It's reversible if you really don't like the life of having a colostomy
>>
>> Downsides:
>> "Farts' are louder because it's out of your belly rather than being
>> "muffled" under your rear
>> Needing to "vent" air from the bag (can be difficult depending on your
>> functional abilities)
>> Dealing with the "colostomy bulge" in between bag replacements ( I wear
>> loose clothing to help hide)
>> "Blowouts" can be messy (I've found the right amount of fiber to add to
>> my diet to keep consistency "just right")
>>
>>
>> I've got a few tips and tricks to share if you go with the colostomy
>> route.
>>
>>
>> Aaron Mann
>>
>>
>> On Wed, Jan 23, 2019 at 7:40 PM Michelle Kephart <
>> michelle.keph...@gmail.com> wrote:
>>
>>> Hi everyone,
>>>
>>> I’m usually pretty quiet on this list, but I’m looking for a wide
>>> variety of input about colostomies and I hope you all can help me. I’m
>>> wondering if it’s the right option for me. Does anyone on here have a
>>> colostomy? If so, what do you think about it? If you previously did a bowel
>>> program, which would you prefer (a bowel program or a colostomy)?
>>>
>>> Thanks for your input!
>>>
>>> Michelle
>>>
>>>