Skip to main content

Stoma Care

Important Information On Using This Service
  • Ergsy carefully checks the information in the videos we provide here.
  • Videos shown by YouTube after a video has completed have NOT been reviewed by ERGSY.
  • To view, click the arrow in the center of the video.
Using Subtitles and Closed Captions
  • Most of the videos you find here will have subtitles and/or closed captions available.
  • You may need to turn these on and choose your preferred language.
Turn Captions On or Off
  • Go to the video you'd like to watch.
  • If closed captions (CC) are available, settings will be visible on the bottom right of the video player.
  • To turn on captions, click settings.
  • To turn off captions, click settings again.
Did you find this video useful?
0
0

Find A Professional

More Items From Ergsy search


Stoma Care: Essential Information for Residents in the United Kingdom

Introduction to Stoma Care

A stoma is an opening created surgically on the abdomen to allow waste to exit the body when the usual route is no longer viable due to medical conditions. Stoma care involves regular, thorough, and gentle cleaning of the stoma and the surrounding skin to prevent infections and maintain overall skin health. Effective management of a stoma is vital for ensuring the comfort and well-being of individuals living with it.

Types of Stomas

In the UK, common types of stomas include colostomy, ileostomy, and urostomy. A colostomy is an opening from the large bowel, an ileostomy from the small bowel, and a urostomy from the urinary system. Each type may require specific care techniques and accessories to manage output effectively and maintain the health of the peristomal skin.

Supplies Needed for Stoma Care

Several essential supplies are required for proper stoma care: - **Stoma bags:** To collect waste and can be one-piece or two-piece systems. - **Adhesive removers:** To remove stoma bags without causing skin irritation. - **Skin barriers and wipes:** To protect the skin around the stoma from moisture and output. - **Stoma powder and paste:** To manage skin irritation and fill in uneven skin surfaces, ensuring a secure fit of the stoma bag.

Daily Stoma Care Routine

A typical daily stoma care routine may involve: 1. **Washing hands**: Hand hygiene is crucial. 2. **Removing the stoma bag**: Gently, using adhesive remover if necessary. 3. **Cleaning the stoma and skin**: Use warm water and mild soap; avoid harsh chemicals. 4. **Drying the skin thoroughly**: Allow the skin to air dry or use a soft towel. 5. **Applying skin protection products**: As needed, before attaching a new stoma bag. 6. **Attaching a new stoma bag**: Ensure proper fitting to prevent leaks and skin irritation.

Seeking Professional Support

In the UK, stoma care support is readily available through NHS stoma care nurses and support groups. Stoma nurses provide essential education and hands-on support for new ostomates, helping them adapt to life with a stoma. Regular follow-up appointments ensure any complications or concerns are promptly addressed.

Conclusion

Stoma care is a critical component of maintaining health and quality of life for individuals with a stoma. With proper care, regular monitoring, and the support of healthcare professionals, ostomates in the UK can manage their condition effectively and confidently lead fulfilling lives.

Stoma Care: Important Facts for People in the UK

What is Stoma Care?

A stoma is a small hole made in your tummy by doctors. It helps waste leave your body when it cannot use the usual way. Taking care of your stoma means keeping it clean and looking after the skin around it. This stops infections and keeps your skin healthy. Taking good care of your stoma is important to feel comfortable and stay healthy.

Different Types of Stomas

In the UK, there are a few common types of stomas: - **Colostomy**: This connects to the large bowel. - **Ileostomy**: This connects to the small bowel. - **Urostomy**: This connects to the urinary system. Each type needs special care and tools to keep everything working well.

Things You Need for Stoma Care

Here are some important things you need to care for your stoma: - **Stoma bags**: These collect waste and come in one-piece or two-piece types. - **Adhesive removers**: These help take off stoma bags gently. - **Skin barriers and wipes**: These protect the skin around your stoma. - **Stoma powder and paste**: These help if your skin gets irritated and make sure your bag fits well.

How to Take Care of Your Stoma Every Day

Here is a simple routine to help take care of your stoma daily: 1. **Wash your hands**: Always keep your hands clean. 2. **Remove the stoma bag**: Do this gently. Use adhesive remover if you need. 3. **Clean the stoma and skin**: Use warm water and mild soap. Do not use strong chemicals. 4. **Dry the skin well**: Let it air dry or use a soft towel. 5. **Use skin protection**: Do this before putting on a new stoma bag. 6. **Put on a new stoma bag**: Make sure it fits well to stop leaks.

Getting Help from Professionals

In the UK, you can get a lot of help with stoma care from NHS nurses and support groups. Stoma nurses teach you what to do and help you get used to having a stoma. They can also help if you have any problems or worries.

Wrapping Up

Taking care of your stoma is very important to stay healthy and enjoy life. With proper care, regular checks, and support from healthcare experts, people with stomas in the UK can manage well and live happily.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a stoma?

A stoma is an opening created surgically to allow waste to leave the body, usually through the abdomen. It may be necessary due to diseases, injuries, or congenital conditions affecting the digestive or urinary systems.

What types of stomas are there?

The main types of stomas are colostomy, ileostomy, and urostomy. A colostomy is created in the large intestine, an ileostomy in the small intestine, and a urostomy diverts urine from the bladder.

How do I care for my stoma?

Stoma care involves regular cleaning with warm water, changing the stoma bag as needed, and monitoring for signs of infection or irritation. Following your healthcare provider’s instructions is crucial.

Can I bathe or shower with a stoma?

Yes, you can bathe and shower with a stoma. Water will not harm it. Some people prefer to do so without their stoma bag to clean the area more thoroughly.

What kind of diet should I follow with a stoma?

Dietary needs can vary, but it is generally recommended to eat a balanced diet while avoiding foods that cause blockages or excessive gas. Chewing food thoroughly and drinking plenty of fluids is also important.

Can I participate in physical activities with a stoma?

Yes, many people with stomas participate in physical activities. It is advised to start slowly and use support garments if necessary to protect the stoma area.

How often should I change my stoma bag?

The frequency of changing your stoma bag depends on the type of stoma and the type of bag used. It can range from daily changes to every few days. Follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations.

What should I do if my stoma changes size or appearance?

If your stoma changes size, shape, or color, or if you experience pain or unusual symptoms, contact your healthcare provider immediately for advice.

Are there any support groups for people with stomas?

Yes, there are numerous support groups and organisations in the UK, such as the Ileostomy and Internal Pouch Support Group (IA) and the Colostomy Association, that offer support and resources.

Can I wear normal clothes with a stoma?

Yes, you can wear normal clothes with a stoma. Some people find high-waisted garments or stoma-friendly underwear helpful for added support and comfort.

What should I do if my stoma bag leaks?

If your stoma bag leaks, clean the area, replace the bag with a fresh one, and check the fit. Ensure your skin is dry and there are no creases in the adhesive.

How can I manage skin irritation around my stoma?

To manage skin irritation, ensure the stoma bag fits correctly, change it regularly, and use protective barriers or creams if recommended by your healthcare provider. If irritation persists, consult your doctor.

Is it normal for my stoma to bleed?

Minor bleeding from a stoma when cleaning is common due to its delicate tissue. However, if bleeding is heavy or continuous, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Can I travel with a stoma?

Yes, you can travel with a stoma. Plan ahead by packing extra supplies, carrying a medical note, and being aware of healthcare facilities at your destination.

What should I do if I experience pain around my stoma?

If you experience pain around your stoma, check for signs of infection, blockage, or other issues. Seek medical advice promptly to address any complications.

What is a stoma?

A stoma is a small opening made in the body. It helps waste leave your body.

If you have a stoma, you may wear a bag. This bag collects waste.

Doctors make a stoma if your body needs help. Speak with your doctor if you have questions.

You can use pictures to understand better. Ask a caregiver or friend to explain more if needed.

A stoma is a small hole made by doctors. It helps waste leave the body. This hole is usually in the tummy area. People might need a stoma if they have certain illnesses, injuries, or are born with conditions that affect how their stomach or bladder work.

Using simple language tools or talking tools can help when learning about stomas. Books with lots of pictures and videos showing how stomas work can also be helpful.

What kinds of stomas are there?

Some people might need a small opening in their tummy for health reasons. This opening is called a stoma. There are different kinds of stomas: 1. **Colostomy**: This helps when there's trouble with the large intestine. 2. **Ileostomy**: This helps when there's a problem with the small intestine. 3. **Urostomy**: This helps with peeing when the bladder doesn't work. If you find reading hard, try these tools: - **Text-to-speech**: This tool reads words out loud to you. - **Picture books**: These books have pictures that help explain the words.

The different types of stomas are colostomy, ileostomy, and urostomy. A colostomy is made in the large intestine. An ileostomy is made in the small intestine. A urostomy helps pee leave the bladder in a different way.

Techniques to help understand:

  • Read slowly and carefully.
  • Use a dictionary to look up difficult words.
  • Ask someone to explain things you do not understand.
  • Try reading out loud to focus better.

How do I take care of my stoma?

A stoma is a small opening in your belly. It helps your body get rid of waste. Here is how to take care of it:

  • Gently clean the area around the stoma with warm water and a soft cloth.
  • Make sure the skin around the stoma stays dry.
  • Change your stoma bag when it is about one-third full.
  • Use a mirror to see the stoma better if you need to.
  • Ask for help if you are not sure what to do. A nurse or doctor can show you.

Remember, you can use pictures and videos to help understand better. Always ask questions if something is confusing.

Taking care of a stoma means you should clean it with warm water. You will also need to change the stoma bag when it needs it. Watch out for any redness, pain, or signs of infection. Always do what your doctor or nurse tells you.

Can I take a bath or shower with a stoma?

Yes, you can take a bath or shower with a stoma. Here are some tips:

  • Be gentle when washing around the stoma.
  • You don't need to cover the stoma bag. It's designed to get a bit wet.
  • Pat the area dry softly after you wash.

If you need help, you can:

  • Ask a nurse to show you how to clean the stoma.
  • Use easy-grip soap that won't slip.

Yes, you can take a bath or shower if you have a stoma. Water will not hurt it. Some people like to take off their stoma bag to clean the area better.

What food should I eat if I have a stoma?

What you eat is important. Try to eat different kinds of healthy foods. Stay away from foods that can make you feel blocked up or gassy. Chew your food well and drink lots of water or other drinks.

Can I do sports or exercise with a stoma?

Yes, lots of people with stomas do exercise and play sports. It is good to start slowly. You can wear special clothes to keep your stoma safe.

How often should I change my stoma bag?

You need to change your stoma bag when it is full or if it leaks. Most people change their bag every 1 to 3 days. It depends on how much comes out of your stoma. If you aren't sure, ask a nurse or doctor to help you.

Here are some tips to help you:

  • Check your bag often so it doesn’t overflow.
  • Keep extra bags with you in case you need to change it.
  • Use a calendar or reminders to help you remember.
  • If it feels itchy or hurts, change the bag soon.
  • Ask for help if you are not sure.

How often you change your stoma bag can be different for everyone. It depends on the kind of stoma you have and the bag you use. Some people change it every day, and some do it every few days. It's important to listen to what your doctor or nurse tells you.

What should I do if my stoma looks different or is another size?

A stoma is an opening on the tummy. It helps waste leave the body. Sometimes, a stoma can look different or change size.

If your stoma changes, here is what you can do:

  • Tell a doctor or nurse. They know a lot about stomas and can help you.
  • Look at your stoma in a mirror. This helps you know what it looks like.
  • Write down changes. You can tell the doctor what you see.

You can use tools to help with your stoma:

  • A mirror to see your stoma better.
  • A notebook to write down what you notice.

It is important to talk to someone if you feel worried. You are not alone. There are people who can help you.

If your stoma changes size, shape, or color, or if it hurts or feels different, tell your doctor or nurse right away.

Are there groups that help people with a stoma?

Yes, there are many groups in the UK that can help you. Two groups are the Ileostomy and Internal Pouch Support Group (IA) and the Colostomy Association. They can give you support and information.

Can I wear my usual clothes with a stoma?

Yes, you can wear your usual clothes with a stoma. Here are some tips to help:

  • Try wearing clothes with stretchy waistbands. They can feel more comfortable.
  • Loose-fitting clothes might be more comfortable around your stoma.
  • Avoid clothes that are too tight over your stoma.
  • If you feel unsure, ask a nurse for advice on clothing.

Yes, you can wear your regular clothes with a stoma. Some people like to wear high-waisted clothes or special underwear for stomas. These can make you feel more comfortable and give you support.

What to do if your stoma bag leaks?

1. Stay calm. It's okay. Leaks happen.

2. Go to the bathroom or a private place.

3. Clean the area gently with warm water and a soft cloth.

4. Put on a new stoma bag. Make sure it fits well to avoid more leaks.

5. Check if you need to change your bag more often.

6. Ask for help if you need it. You can talk to a nurse or use a phone app that helps with stoma care.

If your tummy bag leaks, follow these steps:

  1. Clean the skin around your tummy.
  2. Put on a new, clean bag.
  3. Make sure the bag fits well.
  4. Check that your skin is dry.
  5. Smooth out any bumps on the sticky part so it stays in place.

How can I take care of itchy skin near my stoma?

Here are some simple tips to help you:

  • Clean around your stoma with warm water and a soft cloth.
  • Pat the area dry gently. Don't rub it.
  • Use a skin-friendly barrier cream to protect the skin.
  • Make sure the stoma bag fits well. It shouldn't be too tight or too loose.
  • Change your stoma bag regularly to keep the skin clean.
  • If the skin is very sore, ask a doctor or nurse for help.

These steps can help your skin feel better.

If your skin feels sore, make sure your stoma bag fits right. Change it often. You can use special creams if your doctor says it's okay. If your skin still hurts, talk to your doctor.

Is it okay if my stoma bleeds a little?

When you clean a stoma, it might bleed a little. This is normal because the stoma is delicate. But if there is a lot of bleeding or it keeps bleeding, tell your doctor right away.

Can I go on a trip with a stoma?

Yes, you can go on trips with a stoma! Here are some tips to help you:

  • Plan ahead: Make a checklist of what you need to pack.
  • Bring extra supplies: Pack more stoma supplies than you usually use, just in case.
  • Talk to your doctor: Ask for advice if you're unsure about anything.
  • Use a travel bag: Keep your supplies in a special bag for easy access.
  • Ask for help: If you're at the airport or on a plane, ask staff if you need help.

Remember, lots of people with a stoma travel and have fun! You can too!

Yes, you can travel if you have a stoma. Here are some helpful tips:

1. Pack extra supplies so you have everything you need.

2. Carry a note from your doctor, just in case.

3. Find out where the nearest hospitals or doctors are at your destination.

What can I do if my stoma hurts?

If your stoma hurts, here are some simple steps you can take:

  • Tell an adult or a doctor who can help you.
  • Use soft towels to gently clean around your stoma.
  • Make sure your stoma bag fits right. If it’s too tight or too loose, ask for help.
  • Try not to touch or press on your stoma.

It’s important to talk to someone if you feel pain so they can help you feel better. Consider using picture cards or apps that can help explain how you feel.

If your stoma hurts, look for signs like infection or blockage. These are problems that can happen. Ask a doctor for help right away to fix any issues.

What is a stoma?

A stoma is a small opening made in the body. It helps waste leave your body.

If you have a stoma, you may wear a bag. This bag collects waste.

Doctors make a stoma if your body needs help. Speak with your doctor if you have questions.

You can use pictures to understand better. Ask a caregiver or friend to explain more if needed.

A stoma is a small hole made by doctors. It helps waste leave the body. This hole is usually in the tummy area. People might need a stoma if they have certain illnesses, injuries, or are born with conditions that affect how their stomach or bladder work.

Using simple language tools or talking tools can help when learning about stomas. Books with lots of pictures and videos showing how stomas work can also be helpful.

What kinds of stomas are there?

Some people might need a small opening in their tummy for health reasons. This opening is called a stoma. There are different kinds of stomas: 1. **Colostomy**: This helps when there's trouble with the large intestine. 2. **Ileostomy**: This helps when there's a problem with the small intestine. 3. **Urostomy**: This helps with peeing when the bladder doesn't work. If you find reading hard, try these tools: - **Text-to-speech**: This tool reads words out loud to you. - **Picture books**: These books have pictures that help explain the words.

The different types of stomas are colostomy, ileostomy, and urostomy. A colostomy is made in the large intestine. An ileostomy is made in the small intestine. A urostomy helps pee leave the bladder in a different way.

Techniques to help understand:

  • Read slowly and carefully.
  • Use a dictionary to look up difficult words.
  • Ask someone to explain things you do not understand.
  • Try reading out loud to focus better.

How do I take care of my stoma?

A stoma is a small opening in your belly. It helps your body get rid of waste. Here is how to take care of it:

  • Gently clean the area around the stoma with warm water and a soft cloth.
  • Make sure the skin around the stoma stays dry.
  • Change your stoma bag when it is about one-third full.
  • Use a mirror to see the stoma better if you need to.
  • Ask for help if you are not sure what to do. A nurse or doctor can show you.

Remember, you can use pictures and videos to help understand better. Always ask questions if something is confusing.

Taking care of a stoma means you should clean it with warm water. You will also need to change the stoma bag when it needs it. Watch out for any redness, pain, or signs of infection. Always do what your doctor or nurse tells you.

Can I take a bath or shower with a stoma?

Yes, you can take a bath or shower with a stoma. Here are some tips:

  • Be gentle when washing around the stoma.
  • You don't need to cover the stoma bag. It's designed to get a bit wet.
  • Pat the area dry softly after you wash.

If you need help, you can:

  • Ask a nurse to show you how to clean the stoma.
  • Use easy-grip soap that won't slip.

Yes, you can take a bath or shower if you have a stoma. Water will not hurt it. Some people like to take off their stoma bag to clean the area better.

What food should I eat if I have a stoma?

What you eat is important. Try to eat different kinds of healthy foods. Stay away from foods that can make you feel blocked up or gassy. Chew your food well and drink lots of water or other drinks.

Can I do sports or exercise with a stoma?

Yes, lots of people with stomas do exercise and play sports. It is good to start slowly. You can wear special clothes to keep your stoma safe.

How often should I change my stoma bag?

You need to change your stoma bag when it is full or if it leaks. Most people change their bag every 1 to 3 days. It depends on how much comes out of your stoma. If you aren't sure, ask a nurse or doctor to help you.

Here are some tips to help you:

  • Check your bag often so it doesn’t overflow.
  • Keep extra bags with you in case you need to change it.
  • Use a calendar or reminders to help you remember.
  • If it feels itchy or hurts, change the bag soon.
  • Ask for help if you are not sure.

How often you change your stoma bag can be different for everyone. It depends on the kind of stoma you have and the bag you use. Some people change it every day, and some do it every few days. It's important to listen to what your doctor or nurse tells you.

What should I do if my stoma looks different or is another size?

A stoma is an opening on the tummy. It helps waste leave the body. Sometimes, a stoma can look different or change size.

If your stoma changes, here is what you can do:

  • Tell a doctor or nurse. They know a lot about stomas and can help you.
  • Look at your stoma in a mirror. This helps you know what it looks like.
  • Write down changes. You can tell the doctor what you see.

You can use tools to help with your stoma:

  • A mirror to see your stoma better.
  • A notebook to write down what you notice.

It is important to talk to someone if you feel worried. You are not alone. There are people who can help you.

If your stoma changes size, shape, or color, or if it hurts or feels different, tell your doctor or nurse right away.

Are there groups that help people with a stoma?

Yes, there are many groups in the UK that can help you. Two groups are the Ileostomy and Internal Pouch Support Group (IA) and the Colostomy Association. They can give you support and information.

Can I wear my usual clothes with a stoma?

Yes, you can wear your usual clothes with a stoma. Here are some tips to help:

  • Try wearing clothes with stretchy waistbands. They can feel more comfortable.
  • Loose-fitting clothes might be more comfortable around your stoma.
  • Avoid clothes that are too tight over your stoma.
  • If you feel unsure, ask a nurse for advice on clothing.

Yes, you can wear your regular clothes with a stoma. Some people like to wear high-waisted clothes or special underwear for stomas. These can make you feel more comfortable and give you support.

What to do if your stoma bag leaks?

1. Stay calm. It's okay. Leaks happen.

2. Go to the bathroom or a private place.

3. Clean the area gently with warm water and a soft cloth.

4. Put on a new stoma bag. Make sure it fits well to avoid more leaks.

5. Check if you need to change your bag more often.

6. Ask for help if you need it. You can talk to a nurse or use a phone app that helps with stoma care.

If your tummy bag leaks, follow these steps:

  1. Clean the skin around your tummy.
  2. Put on a new, clean bag.
  3. Make sure the bag fits well.
  4. Check that your skin is dry.
  5. Smooth out any bumps on the sticky part so it stays in place.

How can I take care of itchy skin near my stoma?

Here are some simple tips to help you:

  • Clean around your stoma with warm water and a soft cloth.
  • Pat the area dry gently. Don't rub it.
  • Use a skin-friendly barrier cream to protect the skin.
  • Make sure the stoma bag fits well. It shouldn't be too tight or too loose.
  • Change your stoma bag regularly to keep the skin clean.
  • If the skin is very sore, ask a doctor or nurse for help.

These steps can help your skin feel better.

If your skin feels sore, make sure your stoma bag fits right. Change it often. You can use special creams if your doctor says it's okay. If your skin still hurts, talk to your doctor.

Is it okay if my stoma bleeds a little?

When you clean a stoma, it might bleed a little. This is normal because the stoma is delicate. But if there is a lot of bleeding or it keeps bleeding, tell your doctor right away.

Can I go on a trip with a stoma?

Yes, you can go on trips with a stoma! Here are some tips to help you:

  • Plan ahead: Make a checklist of what you need to pack.
  • Bring extra supplies: Pack more stoma supplies than you usually use, just in case.
  • Talk to your doctor: Ask for advice if you're unsure about anything.
  • Use a travel bag: Keep your supplies in a special bag for easy access.
  • Ask for help: If you're at the airport or on a plane, ask staff if you need help.

Remember, lots of people with a stoma travel and have fun! You can too!

Yes, you can travel if you have a stoma. Here are some helpful tips:

1. Pack extra supplies so you have everything you need.

2. Carry a note from your doctor, just in case.

3. Find out where the nearest hospitals or doctors are at your destination.

What can I do if my stoma hurts?

If your stoma hurts, here are some simple steps you can take:

  • Tell an adult or a doctor who can help you.
  • Use soft towels to gently clean around your stoma.
  • Make sure your stoma bag fits right. If it’s too tight or too loose, ask for help.
  • Try not to touch or press on your stoma.

It’s important to talk to someone if you feel pain so they can help you feel better. Consider using picture cards or apps that can help explain how you feel.

If your stoma hurts, look for signs like infection or blockage. These are problems that can happen. Ask a doctor for help right away to fix any issues.

Useful Links

Useful Links : Stoma Care
NHS: Living with a stoma

Provides comprehensive information on living with a stoma, including advice on diet, lifestyle adjustments, and managing stoma complications.
Colostomy UK

A UK charity offering support and practical advice for people living with a stoma, as well as advocating for ostomates' rights.
Stomawise

A UK-based support network providing information, support, and advocacy to individuals with a stoma, including product reviews and a forum.
Bowel & Cancer Research: Stoma

Offers information about stomas, including FAQs, patient stories, and updates on research initiatives related to bowel disease and stomas.
We would love to hear from you!

Have you found an error, or do you have a link or some information you would like to share? Please let us know using the form below.

We will only use this to contact you regarding your suggestion. We will NEVER pass this information on to anyone else.
Tell us why you are contacting us.
Important Information On Using This Service
  • Ergsy carfully checks the information in the videos we provide here.
  • Videos shown by Youtube after a video has completed, have NOT been reviewed by ERGSY.
  • To view, click the arrow in centre of video.
Using Subtitles and Closed Captions
  • Most of the videos you find here will have subtitles and/or closed captions available.
  • You may need to turn these on, and choose your preferred language.
Turn Captions On or Off
  • Go to the video you'd like to watch.
  • If closed captions (CC) are available, settings will be visible on the bottom right of the video player.
  • To turn on Captions, click settings .
  • To turn off Captions, click settings again.

Contact Us

Ergsy Ltd.

11 Laura Pl
Bathwick
Bath
BA2 4BL

liz@ergsy.com

Reg. in England and Wales No.09521814 

 

Not For Profit

Ergsy is registered in England and Wales No. 08921467 as a not for profit social enterprise. 

Our goal is to improve the standard of social and medical literacy in the United Kingdom.

Legal Information

 

Webform

Ergsy Ltd 2022 | Ergsy is registered in England and Wales No. 08921467 as a not for profit social enterprise. Registered Address: 11 Laura Pl, Bathwick, Bath BA2 4BL, United Kingdom

© Copyright ERGSY 2023 - All Rights Reserved