Do you need an ostomy? It may be temporary or permanent. You need to make some of these lifestyle changes at some point. While there is no need to change your diet for eternity, the food and drinks you consume usually have a direct relation to what you’ll be expelling. One of the challenges that you’ll experience is changing your diet. Also, you’ll experience ostomy odor, which can be managed using the following tips:
1. The Ostomy Pouch Should Be Emptied Regularly
The ostomy pouch is supposed to be emptied regularly if you want to avoid the ostomy odor. If you allow the waste to build up, the odor tends to become stronger. To ensure the odor won’t pose an issue, you should empty the ostomy bag when it’s half full. If you wait for it to become full, it becomes heavier, which means the seal on the appliance will loosen, and the waste and odor will leak out.
For those who’ve had an ostomy recently, liaise with your nurse or media, and they’ll offer some insight into how the pouch can be emptied both in private or public. There are different pouching systems, and the steps to empty each will be different, which means you should adhere to the recommendations issued. Depending on your beverage and food intake, you’re supposed to empty the pouch at least once a day.
2. Use a Filter
There are different ways to filter the ostomy pouch. If the gas builds up in the pouch, the pressure causes the bag to inflate, and the seal will strain. If you fail to address the issue on time, the gas will start to leak. If there are any odor issues after the pouch inflates, there are options that you can utilize, such as inserting a filter that will help with the odor reduction. The filter can be attached directly to the system.
3. Monitor the Body’s Response to Beverages and Food
To avoid ostomy odor, you should start by monitoring the response of the body to beverages and food. When digested by the body, there are drinks and food that will lead to the production of gas or odor produced. For those who’ve had an ostomy, some foods lead to an increase in gas in the ostomy pouch. Some of these foods have high sugar content, including artificial or natural. Each person’s body will react differently, and there is the need to pay attention to the beverages and food you consume and the effects you’ll experience.
Some of the beverages and foods you can start with and monitor how your body reacts include:
• Apples
• Asparagus
• Beer
• Apricots
• Cabbage
• Onions
• Nuts
• Soda
• Mangoes
• Dairy products
• Pears
When you introduce some of these foods into your diet, you should monitor how your body responds. In the process, you’ll get to understand better what is leading to an increase in the gases in your body. You’ll also tailor your diet depending on your needs. Ensure you’re avoiding foods that will lead to an increase in the odor of your urine. You should also stay hydrated at all times.
Final Thoughts
To reap the benefits of ostomy care, there is the need to acquire medical grade and high-quality ostomy supplies. Acquire ostomy flanges, ostomy pouches, skin prep essentials, and stoma powder such that you can improve your way of living.
