Life as a Double Ostomate: Coping with Two Ostomies
Living with one ostomy can be challenging, but what happens when you have two? If you’re a double ostomate, you’ll know all too well the ups and downs of this unique situation.
In this blog, we’ll share what it’s like to have two ostomies, why you might need them, and how to cope with the challenges they present.
Why Two Ostomies?
Firstly, let’s address why someone might need two ostomies. In some case, you may have a colostomy and a urostomy. A colostomy is a surgical procedure that involves bringing the colon to the surface of the abdomen and creating a stoma (an opening) through which waste can leave the body.
A urostomy, on the other hand, involves creating a stoma for the urinary system.
You may have needed a colostomy because of a bowel obstruction, and a urostomy because of bladder cancer.
Coping with Two Ostomies
Adapting to life with two ostomies is not easy, but it’s definitely doable. Here are some tips that may help you cope:
Education
The first thing you need to do is educate yourself about your condition. Learn as much as you can about ostomies and how they work. This will help you understand what to expect and how to manage your ostomies.
Support
Having a good support system is crucial. Talk to your family and friends about what you’re going through, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. There are also support groups and forums online where you can connect with other ostomates who are going through similar experiences.
Supplies
Make sure you have all the supplies you need to manage your ostomies. This includes Vera SA ostomy underwear, ostomy bags, skin barriers, adhesive removers, and wipes. It’s also a good idea to keep extra supplies with you at all times, just in case.
Diet
Diet is important when you have two ostomies. You’ll need to be mindful of what you eat and drink, as some foods and drinks can affect your ostomies. For example, certain foods can cause blockages, while others can cause odour.
Exercise
Exercise is important for your overall health and wellbeing, but it’s also important when you have two ostomies. Regular exercise can help prevent complications such as hernias and can also help improve your mental health.
Confidence
Finally, it’s important to be confident in yourself and your ostomies. Don’t be afraid to talk about your ostomies with others, and don’t let them hold you back from living your life. Remember, having two ostomies doesn’t define who you are.
Living with two ostomies can be challenging, but it’s not impossible. With the right mindset and support, you can manage your ostomies and live a happy and fulfilling life. So don’t let your ostomies hold you back, embrace them and live your best life!
Vera SA is a proud partner of CANSA and The South African Society of Ostomates.
Contact VERA SA at 082-833-9200, email info@verasa.store, or log onto
https://www.verasa.store/ for more information.
READ MORE BLOGS BY VERA SA:
HOW TO REDUCE OSTOMY GAS AND ODOURS
REPLACE YOUR COLOSTOMY BAG IN A FEW EASY STEPS
THE PROS & CONS OF DISPOSABLE OSTOMY BAGS
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