Blockages

Rare unless other medical conditions exist

Higher risk from poorly digested food - Caution with: Nuts, raw vegetables, corn

Lower risk than ileostomy but still possible - Chew food well to prevent issues

Bowel Movements

Regular stools passed through rectum

Frequent, liquid to semi-liquid stools via stoma

Stools pass through stoma, consistency varies with colostomy type

Dehydration

Normal fluid balance maintained

High risk due to reduced fluid absorption - Requires: Increased fluid intake, electrolytes, ORS

Risk lower than ileostomy but still possible - Ensure adequate hydration

Gas & Odour

Normal gas production during digestion

Increased gas and odour possible - Helpful: Buttermilk, cranberry juice, parsley, yoghurt

Gas and odour vary based on diet Avoid: Asparagus, eggs, fish, garlic, strong cheeses - Manage with: Dietary changes, specific foods

Food Sensitivities

Most foods tolerated in moderation

Some foods may cause gas, diarrhea, or blockages - Limit: Nuts, raw vegetables, high-fibre foods

Certain foods may trigger flares or gas - Limit: Spicy foods, high-fat foods, alcohol

Dietary Fibre

Essential for bowel regularity - Well-tolerated

Low-fibre diet initially recommended - Fibre should be reintroduced gradually

Initially limit high-fibre foods - Gradually reintroduce to prevent constipation - Chew high-fibre foods well

Vitamin Deficiencies

Balanced diet ensures adequate vitamin levels

High risk of B12 deficiency (bypassed ileum) - Risk of deficiencies in A, D, E, K, folate

Possible deficiencies in K, B vitamins, calcium, magnesium, zinc

Risk of Malnutrition

Low risk unless underlying health issues exist

High risk due to malabsorption - Possible inadequate intake, nausea, food restrictions

Risk is lower than ileostomy but can occur with conditions like IBD - Malnutrition can result from inadequate intake, food restrictions, or absorption issues

Stool Consistency

Formed stool as water is absorbed in the large intestine

Liquid to semi-liquid stool due to reduced water absorption

Varies by type of colostomy: - Descending/sigmoid: Semi-soft to formed - Transverse: Semi-fluid to soft/pasty - Ascending: Liquid to semi-liquid

Fluid & Electrolyte Balance

Water and electrolytes absorbed in large intestine - Maintains body balance

High risk of dehydration - Electrolyte imbalances (sodium, potassium) common

Risk of dehydration and electrolyte imbalance if a large portion of the colon is removed - Less severe than ileostomy

Nutrient Absorption

Nutrients absorbed throughout the digestive tract - Small intestine (duodenum, jejunum, ileum) plays a key role

Reduced absorption of nutrients, fluids, and electrolytes - Malabsorption of fats, carbohydrates, proteins, and vitamin B12

Better absorption than ileostomy - Decreased absorption of fluids and electrolytes, depending on surgery location