answers
An ileostomy is created out of the ileum (small intestine)1 and requires some particular but simple attention to keep you comfortable and healthy.
Ileostomy surgery
- Because the ileum contains digestive enzymes and acids that may cause skin irritation, extra care is needed with an ileostomy to keep waste materials from coming into contact with the skin on your abdomen.2
- Drink plenty of water and fluids—at least six to eight cups (48 to 64 ounces) per day. Having an ileostomy may make you more prone to dehydration, which could lead to the loss of important minerals your body needs.3
Products for Living with an Ileostomy
Diamonds™ Gelling Sachets with ActiveOne™ Odor Control solidify liquid contents and reduce or eliminate excess gas, enabling the user to achieve a flatter, more discreet pouch. Not only does this result in greater comfort, but users often find that Diamonds™ sachets help prevent leakage and sleep disruptions caused by the need to drain or release gas. For ileostomy or liquid stool output, not indicated for urostomy (urine). Each jar includes 100 sachets. Sachets are not to be opened; they are to be placed directly into the opening of an empty ostomy pouch. For full details, please read the Instruction for use insert.
- What is an ostomy? page. United Ostomy Associations of America Web site. http://www.uoaa.org. Accessed December 10, 2015.
- McGarity WC. Gastrointestinal surgical procedures. In: Hampton BG, Bryant RA, eds. Ostomies and Continent Diversions: Nursing Management. St Louis, MO: Mosby-Year Book; 1992:349-371.
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease Group Foods page. Mount Sinai Hospital Web site. http://www.mountsinai.on.ca. Accessed November 15, 2007.