After an ileostomy, a partially or completely blocked stoma can occur when eating a fiber-rich diet or failing to chew food completely. In other cases, scar tissue or bowel adhesions may block the passage of waste. Adhesions are caused by internal scarring. They are bands of fibrous tissue that can form after a surgery, connecting abdominal tissues and/or organs so that they stick together. No matter the cause, stoma blockage can be a medical emergency. Here’s how to recognize the problem and get proper care.
These are signs of stoma or bowel blockage, in approximate order of seriousness:
If you think you may have a blocked stoma, and symptoms are NOT severe, you can try these tips to clear the blockage in your small intestine:
Skip self-care and call 911 or go the emergency room immediately if: pain is severe, you’re vomiting, stool flow has stopped and/or your have felt poorly for more than 2 hours. This is urgent, to prevent serious dehydration (which occurs extremely quickly) and/or possible bowel rupture.
Tips to help prevent a blocked stoma:
Dr. Don Schiller offers personalized care with the most advanced surgical options, designed to fit your specific needs. Contact us at 323-472-9931 today.