An ileostomy operation is a surgical procedure like many other ones, so it is understandable for it to have some risks. You can discuss these risks or complications with your doctor before surgery to know what you need to expect. Obstruction An ileostomy may not function for a short duration after surgery, but it shouldn’t be worrisome. The stoma’s inactivity for 6 hours, however, can be a sign of blockage or obstruction. If you have this issue, you may want to contact your nurse as soon as you can. They will most probably advise you to:
Dehydration One of the main functions of the large intestine is to absorb water from a watery stool that passes into it from the ileum. With an ileostomy, the watery stool leaves the body without proceeding to the large intestine. With a loss of too much body fluids, the risk of dehydration is significantly high. To make up for this water loss, you are going to have to drink plenty of water. Dehydration due to an ileostomy can result in kidney stones and even kidney failure. Rectal discharge With a temporary ileostomy, you will retain your large intestine in your abdomen. The surgeon will disconnect it from your GI tract only to allow it to heal. While you have an ileostomy, you may notice some rectal discharge. The material passing out of the anus is generally mucus, which is seemingly quite alarming, but it is normal. You may need to contact your doctor or nurse if there is pus or blood in the rectal discharge. One of the best ways to manage rectal discharge is to sit on the toilet and push as if you are passing stool. It will help you prevent the mucus from building up in the rectum. Vitamin B12 deficiency Having an ileostomy can lead to a gradual decrease in the levels of vitamin b12 in some people. This vitamin has a vital role in keeping the brain and nervous system healthy. It happens because a much of vitamin B12 remains unabsorbed in the absence of the colon. In some people, the loss of vitamin B12 contributes to the development of a condition called vitamin B12 anemia. This condition is also known as pernicious anemia. Symptoms of this condition may include fatigue, feeling faint, breathlessness, headache, irregular heartbeat, and loss of appetite. If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your doctor immediately. Stoma problems
An ileostomy, or any other kind of ostomy, results in stoma problems in many people. Those problems mainly include:
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