I've developed a parastomal hernia. Colostomy was nine months ago.

I believe this is not uncommon soop. It's one of the complications of colostomy surgery.

I think that they are best 'managed' rather than go down the surgical route because they not infrequently come back again.

A 'support belt' will in many cases help ease the symptoms.

Do you have a stoma nurse? They would be the best people to talk to - you could start with a telephone consultation maybe?

So sorry you're experiencing this, I can imagine how discouraging it is.

Thank you, Dickens. I am trying to find an appropriate stoma nurse. One that I saw after surgery cannot be contacted. A Gransnetter has given me two other possible contacts. Hope that one returns my call.

I’m sorry to hear you have a parastomal hernia and that you need some advice. I have had a colostomy bag since 2017 and have found that Colostomy UK is very useful and helpful for ostomates. They have a helpline 0800 328 4257. I think you will find their website helpful too, colostomyuk.org. They also have a magazine called Tidings which is very informative.

2J8Datlas Many thanks for your suggestion.

soop

Thank you, Dickens. I am trying to find an appropriate stoma nurse. One that I saw after surgery cannot be contacted. A Gransnetter has given me two other possible contacts. Hope that one returns my call.

While you're waiting for the call, have a look at this forum:

www.meetanostomate.org/discussion-forum/index.php

... there might be others going through something similar - as it's such a common occurrence!

Dickens Thank you yet again. Phone call this morning from the stoma nurse in Glasgow. She confirms diagnosis. All sorts of changes to be made...and, I'm to be measured for a super-sexy support thingy. I know what to watch out for. Any discoloration needs urgent attention.

soop

Dickens Thank you yet again. Phone call this morning from the stoma nurse in Glasgow. She confirms diagnosis. All sorts of changes to be made...and, I'm to be measured for a super-sexy support thingy. I know what to watch out for. Any discoloration needs urgent attention.

Ah, so pleased you got an answer at last!

Yes, the discolouration could indicate a lack of sufficient blood supply, so it's very important.

But I hope those super-sexy support thingies help, they do certainly seem to relieve the symptoms.

Hope you feel more comfortable soon and can resume your normal activities. Good luck dear soop! x

My husband had a hernia associated with his colostomy too. I wouldn’t describe his support thingy as ‘super’ sexy but it did help. His hernia never caused any problems and I hope yours doesn’t either. He had a really lovely stoma nurse and I hope you find one soon. My husband had dementia and I found that if I or he had any queries about his colostomy bag she would always be sympathetic and helpful. He used to get Christmas and Easter cards from his colostomy supplier. I found that rather sweet.

granny'sbuttons

Thank you soop