Fantasy Thoughts on Ostomy bags

As I have learned more and more about ostomy bags and how they can help people it got me thinking about the use of ostomy bags in fantasy worlds or movies. Take Star Wars for example. Do stormtroopers wear ostomy bags? Is that why we never see them remove their armor and go to the bathroom? What about the top dog Darth Vader, does he also have an ostomy bag? Space flight can be dangerous and requires a lot of attention, the use of an ostomy bag could prove beneficial to the piolets. These are odd questions to be thinking about and proposing but I think it is an interesting inquiry. 

In Star Wars we never see Vader remove a piece of armor other than his helmet and that was only for a few moments. After learning more about ostomy bags it got me thinking about the not-so-real world. I do not think it is too far-fetched to think that when Palpatine found Aniken on Mustafar and brought him to have the surgery to make him into Darth Vader he had a colostomy surgery take place as well. This could make sense as Vader never seems to use the bathroom or show signs of needing to. If he had to go he could just go in his suit and continue with the task at hand. 

On the other hand Vaders pawns, the Stormtroopers. They are clones first and foremost so odds are when they are coded they have the colostomy surgery already said and done. The clones would be born needing ostomy bags. This could also make sense as I am sure the dawning and removal of the armor was a lengthy process. If the troopers had ostomy bags they would never need a break from training or battling as they can use the bathroom right there on the spot. Again, an odd proposition to bring to light but it is not impossible, especially in the world of Starwars. 

A strong argument can also be made that most of the time people were traveling the galaxy through space and hyperspace. I believe most people would be a little too busy with making sure the ship is in tip-top shape and not thinking much about relieving themselves. Not to mention, ostomy bags do not impede any day-to-day tasks so the use for them could be a good idea for a space pilot. The dumping of ostomy bags would not hurt the environment either because they would dump them in space as they are traveling and the discarded waste would just freeze and float in space till the end of time. 

I do not think it is impossible to believe certain people in the Starwars universe have the need for an ostomy bag. I think it would make sense for certain characters to have had one as it would allow them to complete their job with little to no need for a break. However, I do think that ostomy bags could have had a role in the Star Wars universe. This is all hypothetical of course, Star Wars is not real, nothing more than highly loved movies by everyone. I only thought it was an interesting idea although far-fetched and a bit gross it could make for an interesting topic for discussion and possibly ruin how people look at Stormtroopers and DarthVader more importantly. 

Steps To Replace a Urostomy Pouch At Home

In this article, we will discuss how to change a urostomy pouch at home. Since it can be hard to change an ostomy pouch after getting discharged from the hospital, you may find the information in this post helpful.

Changing your urostomy pouching system

An ostomy pouching system typically consists of a wafer and a bag. The wafer has an adhesive-laden side that goes against the peristomal skin. There are two types of ostomy pouches: one-piece ostomy pouch and two-piece ostomy pouch. A one-piece ostomy pouch is a single unit combining both the wafer and the bag. Meanwhile, a two-piece ostomy pouch allows the user to detach the bag without taking the wafer off the peristomal skin.

It is crucial to change your ostomy pouch twice every week. The best time to change the urostomy pouch is the morning before eating or drinking anything. At that time, your stoma is not much functional.

You can change your ostomy pouch the way you feel comfortable. You can do it while sitting or standing, depending on your preferences. While you can change your ostomy bag anywhere, the washroom is usually the most appropriate place for this procedure. You can also shower or bath after taking the ostomy pouch off.

Supplies required for the procedure

First and foremost, gather all the supplies that you will need while changing the ostomy pouch. Those supplies include the following.

• Adhesive remover pads or trays
• Paper towels, clean washcloths, or gauze pads
• Pen or marker
• Measuring guide
• Scissors
• New ostomy pouch

Instructions

1. First of all, clean your hands using soap and water. Make sure to dry your hands after washing using a disposable towel. Turn off the faucet using the same towel.

2. Now, empty your existing urostomy pouch. It will require you to open the spout at the bottom of the pouch. It will let urine in the pouch flow out of the spout. While squeezing urine out of the bag, make sure that everything flowing out goes into the toilet. Placing a layer of tissue paper over the water surface inside the toilet will help prevent splashing. Make sure to empty the existing pouch.

3. Clean your hands and take the urostomy pouch off. Remove the skin barrier using adhesive remover spray. Now, press down the abdominal skin near the edge of the skin barrier using one hand. At the same time, pull the skin barrier away from the pressed part of the skin using your second hand. Make sure to remove the skin barrier slowly. Once the ostomy pouch is detached from the skin completely, throw it into a trash can.

4. Clean the skin around the stoma using a moist piece of gauze or washcloth. Use it gently while cleaning the peristomal skin. After cleaning, dry the area by using a hairdryer on the cool setting. You can also pat the skin dry using a dry cloth. Remember, the new flange will adhere to the skin only when it is dry.

5. Your stoma will change its shape and size during the first few weeks after surgery. It will take six to eight weeks for it to settle to a permanent shape and size. During these weeks, you will have to measure your stoma every time you change the ostomy pouch. Then, you will have to use those measurements to create an opening in a cut-to-fit skin barrier. Once your stoma reaches a permanent and regular shape, you can start using precut ostomy pouches.

6. Remove the adhesive cover from the flange’s side that has to go against the peristomal skin. Start applying from the top and work it downwards using your fingers. Make sure that the opening of the flange fits nicely around the stoma. After applying the skin barrier, cover it using your palms to let the warmth improve its adhesion. Attach the ostomy pouch with the flange if you are using a two-piece pouching system.

Steps To Irrigate Your Colostomy

After undergoing colostomy surgery, you may think of controlling your bowel movements as a story of the past. However, you can irrigate your colostomy to regain significant control over when to empty your bowels. You can irrigate your colostomy by flushing it with warm water every day or every other day. Equipment you will need to irrigate your colostomy may include an irrigation kit, water-soluble lubricant, and a hook. You can get specific instructions from an ostomy care nurse to learn the proper way to irrigate your colostomy.

In this article, we will discuss the steps involved in colostomy irrigation.

Filling the bag

First, you have to close the tubing attached to the irrigation bag. Then, fill the bag with one quart of water. Make sure that water is lukewarm. Avoid using cold water as it can result in cramping.

After filling the bag, hang it on the hook above the toilet. It is ideal to keep the bottom of the bag at your shoulder level when sitting. Hold the tubing and open the clamp slightly to run some water. It will remove air from the tubing. Once you see water coming out, close the clamp.

Putting on the sleeve

Remove the ostomy pouch or cap from your stoma. Clean the peristomal skin with warm water and pat it dry using a piece of a soft cloth. Now, sit on or next to the toilet. Place the round opening of the sleeve around the stoma and press on the adhesive. It will attach the sleeve to the peristomal skin. You can also connect the mounting ring and secure it using the belt. Now, put the other end of the sleeve over the toilet.

Inserting the cone

Attach the cone to the end of the tubing and apply a small amount of lubricant to the tip of the cone. Put the cone into the stoma and press it a bit. Hold the cone in place and open the clamp on the tubing slightly to allow water to flow slowly into the stoma. Let the water flow for five to ten minutes, and then close the clamp.

Removing the cone and clamping the sleeve

Keep the cone in place for 60 seconds and then remove it. Seal the top of the sleeve. The instilled water will promote bowel movement, making stool and water flow out of the stoma. Allow wastes to flow through the sleeve. It will take 15 to 20 minutes. After that, you can clamp the sleeve and get up. Clean the peristomal skin and cover your stoma with an ostomy pouch or a stoma cap.

Cleaning the cone and the sleeve

Rinse and clean both the cone and sleeve with water. You can also mix one part white vinegar with three parts lukewarm water. Pouring it into the sleeve will promote a better cleaning of your sleeve. Close the sleeve from one end to contain water in it. Shake it until the interior of the sleeve is clean. Hang it to let it dry.

Tips To Live With An Ostomy

Although adapting to a life with an ostomy seems challenging to most ostomates, it is just a matter of time that you will be able to return to your previous routine. You can go to work, play sports, and socialize with your friends and family a few weeks after ostomy surgery.

In this article, we will discuss some tips to live to the fullest with an ostomy.

Medicine

Since most medicines absorb in the small intestine, your ability to absorb them will depend on your functioning intestinal tract length. You may not be able to absorb coated pills and time-release medicines as they will pass out through the stoma pretty quickly. The best way to get all your medicines absorbed is to have them in liquid form. You can discuss the type of ostomy you have with your healthcare professional. He or she will recommend the best form of medicine and suggest the correct dosage.

Diet

Right after surgery, you will not be able to take solid foods. Initially, you will need to have a liquid diet to avoid putting stress on your intestinal tract while it is in a vulnerable state. You can move to solid foods gradually as your bowel recovers. After six to eight weeks, you will be able to have your favorite diet. You may have to commit to a specific diet routine, though.

Generally, you will have to drink plenty of water if you have an ostomy. It also depends on the length of the functional intestinal tract in your abdomen. If you have the entire colon removed, you may not be able to absorb a significant amount of moisture and a high content of minerals and electrolytes in the digested foods. So, you may have to drink plenty of water and get an optimum supply of other minerals and electrolytes to make up for the loss of those fluids and electrolytes. You can also consider taking some supplements, but be sure to discuss it with your doctor first.

Work

You will be able to continue working on your present job unless it requires you to lift heavy objects. You can speak to your doctor about your occupational limitations.

Clothing

The good thing about present-day ostomy pouches is that they have a flat profile, which makes them easy to conceal under the clothes. Even if you wear some fitting clothes, you will be able to keep your ostomy pouches most of the time. You can discuss this matter with an ostomy care nurse.

Travel

Whether you want to hit the road or fly to a distant location, your ostomy will not bother you if you take some necessary measures. For instance, your first concern will be to have enough supplies while you are away. That is why it is crucial to buy all those supplies beforehand and pack them in your carry-on luggage. Make sure to have some supplies ready to deal with unanticipated circumstances during the travel.

Sports and exercises

While you may not be able to lift heavy objects and engage in intense physical activities, you will get there in some weeks after surgery. You can discuss your physical activity regimen with your healthcare provider to know the exact amount of physical exertion you can engage in every day.

Hikes with an ostomy bag

I enjoy seeing the outdoors and taking hikes to be with nature. On my hikes, I feel free and alive. Living in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, I am surrounded by mountains and plenty of trails to explore. Taking a breath of fresh mountain air in the morning, there is nothing like it. However, my life took a turn a year ago when I found out I had to get a colostomy surgery. 

Last year it was like any typical day. I went to work and went about my day as I would usually. After my lunch, I was having some indigestion witch did not feel all that good. Around four o’clock, I had collapsed, and my coworkers rushed me to the emergency room. Once there, I was put into a room. Shortly after arriving in the exam room, I was seen by a doctor. I told him what had happened, and one of my coworkers was there to fill in any gaps. After telling the doctor about the indigestion I experienced, he wanted to get a CT scan. This scan revealed I had an infection in my intestines, and the only solution would be a colostomy procedure. I was devastated as I feared this would impede my ability to hike and work effectively. He assured me that I did not have anything to worry about and I will be able to do everything I wanted as well as I had before. 

The adjustment period was rough. It took me about three months to be used to carrying around this pouch with me. I still hike to this day with a greater appreciation of the nature around me. There is not much of a difference hiking with an ostomy bag, really. The nice perk is that I do not have to stop to use the bathroom ever. I can get to the end of the hike a bit slower as I am trying to take in all the sights and smells around me. 

I usually take hikes after work to unwind and forget about the day. I have come to appreciate the quiet of it all. The hikes after work are great for my mental, I use this time to think about goals to set for myself and I mentioned unwind from the stresses of work. I enjoy trying to spot animals while on my walks. I keep an eye out for bears as they are known to be in the mountains I hike. It would be interesting to see one, just from a distance of course. Hikes are my passion and I am glad to still be able to go on them and take in the sights.

 

Hiking with an ostomy bag is not any different than hiking without one, other than being able to use the bathroom without needing a bathroom. I was relieved when I found out I was able to still take my hikes. If I could not be out in nature I think I would go crazy at some point. Living and working with an ostomy bag is not horrible, it is not much different from my life before I had one. However, now I am determined to see and learn more about the environment around me and how I can help keep it safe and thriving. Taking hikes helps me forget about my situation and focus on the surroundings. In a way, I am happy to have needed this surgery it is making me slow down and appreciate the little things.