A stoma looks like a small spout, deep pink in colour similar to the inside of the mouth. Although it looks raw it has no feeling. Your stoma will gradually settle down during the first 6-8 weeks after surgery and may reduce in size. Check it weekly with a measuring guide to make sure the hole in your pouch is a snug fit.
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The most common reason for a stoma to bleed is due to you being a little rough when removing, cleaning and replacing your pouch. Extra care should be taken if you are susceptible to bleeding but on the whole it is nothing to worry about. If you see blood coming from inside the stoma, then you should see your GP.
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If you are not experiencing problems with your stoma bag then there is no need for concern. Sometimes leaks can occur with a flat flange and it may be worth trying FreeStyle Curvex which gently conforms into dips or creases.
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This is sometimes a difficult stoma to manage. Try and avoid sore skin through leakage. Many stoma care nurses will advise wearing a convex pouch to encourage the stoma to protrude but do not change to a convex stoma bag without seeking advice from your stoma care nurse first.
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There are stoma bags with different shaped adhesives to accommodate an odd shaped stoma, such as FreeStyle Oval. If you experience any difficulty in applying your pouch , please contact your local stoma care nurse.
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A bulge around the stoma may indicate a hernia. If you are having a problem with keeping your stoma bag on you could try flange extenders such as HydroFrame, a stoma bag with an oval adhesive such as FreeStyle Oval or a stoma bag with an adhesive which can be inverted such as FreeStyle Curvex. Many people with a hernia find that wearing a belt helps, as it will offer extra support. Support garments are also available.
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These very often occur when the rectum has been removed, although uncomfortable, they are nothing to worry about and will soon settle down.
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If you notice a smell from your bag do check it as there may be a leakage under the flange and the bag will need changing. There are many sprays e.g. Limone and drops available that you can put/spray in your pouch or spray around you when changing your pouch. If you are worried about lingering smells you can strike a match after changing your bag and this will help to reduce any odour. Certain foods can affect the smell of your output.
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Sore skin is very often caused by wearing a stoma bag with the wrong hole size. This allows output to seep onto the surrounding skin. If this occurs the stoma should be re-measured by using the backing paper of the adhesive as a guide. You may want to stand in front of a mirror to do this.
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