Stoma care is a very important part of managing the health of those who have a stoma. Given this, we thought it would be helpful to put together a brief article on this subject. If this is something that you're interested in learning more about, read on as we break down everything that you need to know about stoma care.
What is a Stoma?
A stoma is an artificial opening created in the wall of the abdomen. It is usually created during surgery and allows for the elimination of fecal or urinary waste from the body. The most common type of stoma is an ileostomy, which is created when the ileum (the last part of the small intestine) is brought to the surface of the abdomen. This allows for the elimination of fecal waste through a pouch that is attached to the stoma. A colostomy is another type of stoma that is created when the large intestine is brought to the surface and allows for the elimination of solid waste.
Who Needs Stoma Care?
Stoma care is a type of medical care that is necessary for people who have had a stoma procedure. A stoma is an artificial opening made in the abdomen to allow for waste products to be eliminated from the body. The procedure is typically used when someone has had part of their intestine removed due to disease, injury, or other medical conditions.
People who need stoma care usually have had an ileostomy, colostomy, or urostomy procedure. An ileostomy is a type of stoma procedure that creates an opening in the lower part of the small intestine. A colostomy is a procedure that creates an opening in the large intestine, and a urostomy is a procedure that creates an opening in the bladder.
Individuals who need stoma care typically require ongoing medical attention and special products, such as ostomy bags and other accessories. These products are used to collect and dispose of waste products that pass through the stoma. In addition, they may need periodic check-ups with their doctor to make sure the stoma is functioning properly.
People who need stoma care may have conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease, diverticulitis, rectal cancer, or bladder cancer. Additionally, people who have had abdominal surgeries, such as hysterectomy or appendectomy, may need a stoma procedure.
Stoma care is an important part of maintaining a healthy lifestyle for people who need it. With proper care and maintenance, people with stomas can continue to live normal lives and participate in activities they enjoy.
What Are the Benefits of Stoma Care?
One of the most important benefits of stoma care is improved health. Stoma care helps to reduce the risk of infection and irritation of the stoma site by keeping the area clean and free from bacteria. This can help to reduce the risk of developing complications such as skin irritation, infection, and an increased risk of stoma-related diseases. Stoma care can also help to reduce the risk of an ostomy-related blockage, which can be a serious problem for those with a stoma.
Stoma care can also help to improve comfort and quality of life. Using the right stoma care products, such as stoma bags, can help to reduce the odor, leakage, and other unpleasant side effects that can occur with a stoma. Proper stoma care can also help to reduce skin irritation and chafing, which can be uncomfortable and embarrassing.
Finally, stoma care can help to improve confidence and self-esteem. Using the right stoma care products and techniques can help to make the stoma less visible and easier to manage, which can help to reduce the psychological impact of having a stoma. With proper stoma care, many people find that they can continue to live their lives as they did before their surgery.
Conclusion
Understanding stoma care is essential for people living with a stoma. With proper knowledge and understanding individuals can manage their stoma correctly and live an active and healthy life.
If you’re in need of stoma care, Vicky Cares has got you covered. We are a team of highly skilled care specialists offering medical and nursing care right at your doorstep. We help to design specific and personalised care plans based on your goals, and we use telemonitoring to enhance your care. For more information, reach out to us today!