This is an open invitation for ostomy friends who wants to get together for a thanksgiving and Christmas party. I most welcome oldtimers and most especially newtimers as well.
I am organizing a simple ostomy thanksgiving and Christmas party anytime next week at National Kidney and Transplant Institute. May I invite registrations online in order to see how many attendees would like to come.
Some people can text me too. My cellphone is 0916.666.75.86. If we can at least come up with not less than 3 people, then we can push true with the event.
If you are online, email me or just post in the shout out.
Sorry for the so short advise. This opportunity to meet is also to plan activities for the coming year for the ostomy people around Quezon City and nearby places.
Maraming salamat po.!
Advance Merry Christmas to all.
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Ulcerative Colitis in the Philippines
ULCERATIVE COLITIS
The term ulcerative colitis refers to the condition of an inflamed colon. It further complicates by perforating the linings of the intestines if not treated well. It most often manifests to cause symptoms between the ages of 15 and 40. The presence of fever and bloody diarrhea as I mentioned indicates colonic tissue damage. The ulcerations on the surface of the intestines can be compared when we scar and wound our outer skin and it starts to form scabs but does not completely heal because it constantly peels off due to continuous rubbing of the colon against other surfaces. Once food is taken in and peristalsis begins, the intestine becomes irritated as the food passes in a fast forward motion causing poor absorption. Also, this triggers gas, bloating and both a bloody and watery diarrhea. Sometimes, ulcerative colitis can be so detrimental that patients may develop inflammation in unrelated areas like the eyes, joints and the skin. Taking low fiber and low fat diet will lessen scratching of the colon. Other possible causes of ulcerative colitis can be attributed to an immune system dysfunction, uncooked foods that trigger bacterial infection and the pressure of stress.
Ulcerative Colitis Support Group
Meet with us on August 1, Saturday 10:00 am at Trinoma Quezon City
Text me at (Ronald) 0916.666.75.86
Thank you
The term ulcerative colitis refers to the condition of an inflamed colon. It further complicates by perforating the linings of the intestines if not treated well. It most often manifests to cause symptoms between the ages of 15 and 40. The presence of fever and bloody diarrhea as I mentioned indicates colonic tissue damage. The ulcerations on the surface of the intestines can be compared when we scar and wound our outer skin and it starts to form scabs but does not completely heal because it constantly peels off due to continuous rubbing of the colon against other surfaces. Once food is taken in and peristalsis begins, the intestine becomes irritated as the food passes in a fast forward motion causing poor absorption. Also, this triggers gas, bloating and both a bloody and watery diarrhea. Sometimes, ulcerative colitis can be so detrimental that patients may develop inflammation in unrelated areas like the eyes, joints and the skin. Taking low fiber and low fat diet will lessen scratching of the colon. Other possible causes of ulcerative colitis can be attributed to an immune system dysfunction, uncooked foods that trigger bacterial infection and the pressure of stress.
Ulcerative Colitis Support Group
Meet with us on August 1, Saturday 10:00 am at Trinoma Quezon City
Text me at (Ronald) 0916.666.75.86
Thank you
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Do you have unused colostomy bags?
Do you have unused colostomy bags?
Colostomy bags that you do need and are willing to donate?
You can send donations to Colostomy Friends.
They will be distributed to patients who are most in need all over the Philippines.
Ostomy supplies you donate will be acknowledged by the person who will use them. We will send you photos and a diagnosis of the patient.
Help us make ostomy life much easier.
Quality of Life for Filipino Ostomates!
Colostomy bags that you do need and are willing to donate?
You can send donations to Colostomy Friends.
They will be distributed to patients who are most in need all over the Philippines.
Ostomy supplies you donate will be acknowledged by the person who will use them. We will send you photos and a diagnosis of the patient.
Help us make ostomy life much easier.
Quality of Life for Filipino Ostomates!
Friday, July 10, 2009
Free colostomy bags for ostomates
ANNOUNCEMENT:
Distribution of Free Colostomy Bags
When: July 17, 2009 - (Friday)
Venue: National Kidney and Transplant Institute
East Avenue Quezon City
Time: 10:00 am to 11:00 am (First come, First Serve)
Once you are in National Kidney hospital, please go to the second floor and look for the Conference Room 3. Please register.
Please pass the announcement to fellow ostomates. For further inquiries contact me na lang po.
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
Friday, June 5, 2009
World Ostomy Day 2009
World Ostomy Day 2009 will be celebrated on the 3rd October 2009 and the theme will be "Reaching Out" The aim of World Ostomy Day is to improve the rehabilitation of Ostomates worldwide by bringing to the attention of the general community and the global community the needs and aspirations of Ostomates and their families.
Activities to promote awareness may include: educational programs, seminars, support meetings and demonstrations/displays; electronic information networks, newspaper and magazine announcements/advertisements and articles. Publication of informative handout materials and brochures: audio and video announcements and films; personal visits and lobbying activities; official government proclamations and joint activities with allies agencies and professional health Associations
As part of WOD 2009 there will also be an International Photographic Competition sponsored by Hollister. The World Ostomy Day Photo Contest. The theme of this competition is to indicate that having a Stoma does not stop Ostomates leading a full and active life. For example families on vacation, during work, sporting activities, spending time with children/ grand children volunteering in community organizations.
There will be 20 winners for this competition from all parts of the world.
Activities to promote awareness may include: educational programs, seminars, support meetings and demonstrations/displays; electronic information networks, newspaper and magazine announcements/advertisements and articles. Publication of informative handout materials and brochures: audio and video announcements and films; personal visits and lobbying activities; official government proclamations and joint activities with allies agencies and professional health Associations
As part of WOD 2009 there will also be an International Photographic Competition sponsored by Hollister. The World Ostomy Day Photo Contest. The theme of this competition is to indicate that having a Stoma does not stop Ostomates leading a full and active life. For example families on vacation, during work, sporting activities, spending time with children/ grand children volunteering in community organizations.
There will be 20 winners for this competition from all parts of the world.
FRIENDS OF OSTOMATES WORLDWIDE-USA
FRIENDS OF OSTOMATES WORLDWIDE-USA
Founded in 1986, the Friends of Ostomates Worldwide-USA (FOW-USA) is a non-profit volunteer organization that collects new, donated ostomy supplies from generous individuals and organizations in the United States, and ships them to countries where ostomates do not have access to these vital supplies. Through 2008, FOW-USA has shipped over 220,000 pounds of supplies, valued at $11 million, to 60 countries.
Here is how the FOW-USA organization works. Supplies are sent to a central warehouse in the United States, now located in a new site in Louisville, Kentucky. They come from a variety of sources: people with surplus supplies no longer needed; facilities that can no longer use supplies or are changing to other brands; ostomy support groups that may have supplies donated by members. At the warehouse, volunteers sort and put the same sizes and brands together.
Requests for supplies are received through the internet or referral from other sources. An FOW-USA volunteer communicates with trusted individuals and organizations in the receiving country, such as hospitals, clinics, doctors, WOC nurses, and ostomy groups, to identify product needs. We also ensure that the supplies enter the country without duty and are distributed free of charge to needy ostomates. We make sure that a health care professional trained in ostomy care is available to instruct ostomates in the use of the supplies.
Through donations, the Friends of Ostomates Worldwide-USA pays for expenses, including shipping the supplies and renting warehouse space. The cost to send packages to our overseas recipients is approximately $2 per pound. Since our shipments may run up to 800 pounds per pallet, shipping costs are significant and we rely on the generous financial donations of people who believe in our important cause.
The 60 countries to which we have shipped supplies include: Ethiopia, Chile, Iraq (Mosul), Nepal, Panama, Zambia, Bolivia, Palestine, Peru, Jamaica, Uzbekistan, Argentina, St. Lucia, and Zimbabwe. We appreciate pictures, email messages, and stories from the people and countries who receive our supplies. We work closely with the Friends of Ostomates Worldwide-Canada, as well as the International Ostomy Association and its regional presidents, and Hand in Hand Ministries in Louisville, KY, USA.
Our website is: www.fowusa.org. Please check it out for our shipping history, available resources, and information on how to support us. New address: FOW-USA, 1500 Arlington Avenue, Louisville, Kentucky, USA 40206-3177.
Thursday, April 23, 2009
Ostomy Nutrition Guide
Eating is one of life’s great pleasures. Having a stoma should not change your enjoyment of food. Most people with a stoma return to their normal diet soon after an operation. However food tolerances vary from person to person. The most important dietary concerns for the ostomist are preventing blockage and avoiding foods that produce unpleasant odors, gas or excess stool. Listed below are some general guidelines of the effects of foods after ostomy surgery. It doesn’t mean you cannot have the foods – you can still eat them but must be taken in moderation.
These are some general guidelines for eating which will help you care for your stoma more easily:
• Eat meals regularly. A stoma works best if you have three or more regular meals a day
• Chew your food well. If you have an ileostomy this helps prevent any food blockage
• Try new foods one at a time. If a new food seems to cause a problem eliminate it for a couple of weeks and then try again
• Drink a lot of fluid daily as you may lose more fluids than normal through your stoma
An extra note for ileostomists
It is very easy to lose large amounts of water, minerals and vitamins through an ileostomy when diarrhea occurs which can quickly leads to dehydration. When this occurs you need to replace these fluids so that you do not become ill.
Foods High in Potassium Foods High in Sodium
Milk, Beef, Fish, Pork, Peppers Tomatoes, Broccoli, Potatoes, Spinach, Green beans, Tomato juice,
Avocado, Apricots, Bananas, Cherries, Grapefruit juice
Strawberries, Pineapple, Dates Salt added to food, Canned and dried soups, Canned meat, fish, gravies, Pickles and relishes, Salted popcorn, Pretzels
Vegetables prepared in brine, Cold cuts of meat, Ham and bacon, Hot dogs, Peanut butter, Salad dressings, Sausages
Tomato juice and sauce
These are some general guidelines for eating which will help you care for your stoma more easily:
• Eat meals regularly. A stoma works best if you have three or more regular meals a day
• Chew your food well. If you have an ileostomy this helps prevent any food blockage
• Try new foods one at a time. If a new food seems to cause a problem eliminate it for a couple of weeks and then try again
• Drink a lot of fluid daily as you may lose more fluids than normal through your stoma
An extra note for ileostomists
It is very easy to lose large amounts of water, minerals and vitamins through an ileostomy when diarrhea occurs which can quickly leads to dehydration. When this occurs you need to replace these fluids so that you do not become ill.
Foods High in Potassium Foods High in Sodium
Milk, Beef, Fish, Pork, Peppers Tomatoes, Broccoli, Potatoes, Spinach, Green beans, Tomato juice,
Avocado, Apricots, Bananas, Cherries, Grapefruit juice
Strawberries, Pineapple, Dates Salt added to food, Canned and dried soups, Canned meat, fish, gravies, Pickles and relishes, Salted popcorn, Pretzels
Vegetables prepared in brine, Cold cuts of meat, Ham and bacon, Hot dogs, Peanut butter, Salad dressings, Sausages
Tomato juice and sauce
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Colostomy Support Bag
The purpose of the support bag is to secure the pouch especially for those who are engaged in active lifestyle. There is a hidden pocket inside the cloth where one can easily slide the pouch. Be sure that the bag is not heavy with stool for this to work to prevent it from bulging.
Please share your personal designs of your own colostomy support bags.
Friday, February 13, 2009
Love and Sex for Persons with an Ostomy
The month of February is said to be the love month since it is the time of the year that Valentine’s day is celebrated. We get to wear red and enjoy sending and receiving chocolates, bouquet of roses, cards and what not. Ostomates get to enjoy this love month too. We are no strangers to success stories where couples even as ostomates and their partners have begotten and raised their own children. We hope that the information below will be able to dispel myths that people with bags no longer enjoy meaningful relationships and even sexual encounters with their love ones. It provides some general advice about sex and related matters for people who have had stoma surgery.
Love and Sex
People with an ostomy would definitely have many adjustments to do in order to sustain a relationship as a single or married person. Stomal surgery can affect sex both in the physical and psychological aspects. Any procedure that makes a person look or feel different is likely to have an effect on their body image. It can cause anxieties about personal attractiveness. Additional anxieties occur regarding sexual ability particularly the effect of the ostomy on one's partner, and the possibility of an "accident" with embarrassing consequences occurring.
Many ostomates wonder if they will be able to have children. They wonder how they will physically make love while wearing an appliance. The answers to these questions depend on a number of things namely: one’s illness, the type of operation one underwent, one’s age and gender, and one’s attitude.
Relationships and Self-confidence
When you are fully clothed, no one needs to know that you have an ileostomy, colostomy or urostomy. However, with no clothes on, the bag can hardly be ignored. One’s partners of long standing who have shared the experience of illness and surgery will share in the adjustment period. What is beautiful is that for a couple in a loving caring relationship, the novelty of the appliance soon wears off and it can be largely ignored.
However, this may not be possible when an ostomate has a new partner who is unaware of one’s earlier illness. It is wise to explain to a potential new partner that you have an appliance. One rehearses a short explanation before getting into the situation. Incidentally, if one tells a prospective partner about one’s stoma, it is always prudent to be prepared for the fact that one might be rejected. This is always an unpleasant experience; the only consolation is that people who don't have stomas get rejected as well. It is also true that if you get rejected it is not necessarily because of the stoma.
If a relationship is becoming serious, it is important to discuss the situation before the relationship gets physical. Of course, not all sexual relationships occur after you have had time to get to know someone well enough to discuss such matters.
In the final analysis, an ostomate has a choice in one’s social and personal relationships. This includes sexual relationships with long standing partners or new partners and indeed in non-sexual relationships with friends, relatives and work mates.
One can either present oneself to the world as a sick person or as a well person. If you think of yourself as a sick person and play that role, you will give people the impression that the only thing that matters about you is your stoma. If you do this, other people will very likely respond by treating you like an invalid. On the other hand, you can present yourself to others as someone who was ill and now has a stoma which is part, but not the only part, of your life. There are other aspects of you that are much more important that your stoma; your job, your family, your good looks, your wit, your charm or whatever. Others will take their cue from you. If you are able to show that while you recognize that you have your stoma, it is not important in terms of the way you want to live your life, then that is what will most likely occur. If you want to be an invalid and you want to be treated by other people as an invalid, you will never enjoy a good healthy relationships and sex life.
Making Love
How do ostomates make love? The answer is that they make love in exactly the same way as people without stomas do. All the conventional lovemaking positions are usually possible for ostomates. It is a matter of taste and a matter of what you are comfortable with.
Remember that being tender, loving, kissing and touching are all part of making love. You will need to take it gently and the tenderness and friendliness that are part of the pleasure of lovemaking is where you should begin.
The simplest problem facing the ostomate is the appliance that may impede movement and get in the way. If the appliance is emptied before intercourse it can be folded up and trapped down with some tape. Keep a nice cotton cover over the appliance at all times as wearing a cover stops it rubbing on yours and your partner’s skin.
The Male Ostomate
The greatest difficulty and the most common one, which men are likely to encounter post-operatively is impotence. It is a highly complex phenomenon and may occur in men of all ages and can occur for many reasons which have nothing to do with surgery directly.
The good thing here is that this problem can be corrected by simple changes in lifestyle.
Do you try to make love when you are very tired? Are you using drugs and/or alcohol in a way that is depressing one’s sex drive? Are you trying too hard to make love, rather that treating it as a natural ordinary thing to do? The correct attitude is to be sensible. Do not try to do too much and see if going to bed earlier when you are not so tired or drinking less, will help. If these simple remedies don't assist, then it is worth seeking a medical opinion. But remember, gentleness, tenderness and being relaxed, as well as having a positive self image, is essential to a happy and enjoyable sex life.
It is ascribed by science that impotence is more likely usual for men having a colostomy than an ileostomy because there is less damage to the tissues in the latter and therefore less risk to the nerve pathways. Surgery for bowel cancer is extensive and therefore more damaging.
Temporary impotence is not unusual following stoma surgery, so don't think that all is lost if, within a couple of months after surgery, you have not begun to have sexual relations. The healing process sometimes takes a long time. Even in the case of permanent impotence, all is not lost. Over the last few years medical science has developed surgical techniques that can help some impotent men, including ostomates.
The Female Ostomate
Having a stoma is not in itself a bar to having sex and having children. Normal birth with normal vaginal delivery is quite feasible and quite common. This is, of course, dependent on the reproductive organs being undamaged and working normally. Having a stoma as such will have no effect on these; the pre-existing disease however might.
As far as the mechanics of sexual intercourse are concerned, there are several typical problems which the female stoma patient might experience. The first of these relates to the way the perineal wound heals. (The wound left when the rectum is removed). It sometimes remain tender for a considerable time following surgery and thus sexual intercourse can be painful. A second problem is that the space left when the colon is removed sometimes allows the uterus to shift backwards. This can cause pain during intercourse. Thirdly, some female ostomates find that there is a decrease in feeling and sensitivity of the clitoris. This may be due to the fact that the nerve pathways to the clitoris are impaired in surgery. Another frequent problem is vaginal dryness making intercourse difficult and uncomfortable. Finally penetration may be painful and uncomfortable, simply because of the scarring of the tissues following removal of the colon or bladder.
There are a number of solutions. For dryness, a lubricating jelly can be used. Surgical reconstruction of the perineal wound, particularly if sinuses are present, is possible. Lastly, trying different sexual positions is also a good idea if penetration is painful. If the rectum has been removed the missionary position may be uncomfortable.
Conclusion
We have examined the issues in general terms because to try to detail the entire different alternatives from all the possible diseases, the three major types of stoma, the different types of relationships people have, people's different ages and sexual experiences, would lead to a very long and complicated discussion.
In the end the best advice is to keep things in perspective. Sex can be fun, sex can be great; but it is only part of life. It is not the be all and end all of living
Love and Sex
People with an ostomy would definitely have many adjustments to do in order to sustain a relationship as a single or married person. Stomal surgery can affect sex both in the physical and psychological aspects. Any procedure that makes a person look or feel different is likely to have an effect on their body image. It can cause anxieties about personal attractiveness. Additional anxieties occur regarding sexual ability particularly the effect of the ostomy on one's partner, and the possibility of an "accident" with embarrassing consequences occurring.
Many ostomates wonder if they will be able to have children. They wonder how they will physically make love while wearing an appliance. The answers to these questions depend on a number of things namely: one’s illness, the type of operation one underwent, one’s age and gender, and one’s attitude.
Relationships and Self-confidence
When you are fully clothed, no one needs to know that you have an ileostomy, colostomy or urostomy. However, with no clothes on, the bag can hardly be ignored. One’s partners of long standing who have shared the experience of illness and surgery will share in the adjustment period. What is beautiful is that for a couple in a loving caring relationship, the novelty of the appliance soon wears off and it can be largely ignored.
However, this may not be possible when an ostomate has a new partner who is unaware of one’s earlier illness. It is wise to explain to a potential new partner that you have an appliance. One rehearses a short explanation before getting into the situation. Incidentally, if one tells a prospective partner about one’s stoma, it is always prudent to be prepared for the fact that one might be rejected. This is always an unpleasant experience; the only consolation is that people who don't have stomas get rejected as well. It is also true that if you get rejected it is not necessarily because of the stoma.
If a relationship is becoming serious, it is important to discuss the situation before the relationship gets physical. Of course, not all sexual relationships occur after you have had time to get to know someone well enough to discuss such matters.
In the final analysis, an ostomate has a choice in one’s social and personal relationships. This includes sexual relationships with long standing partners or new partners and indeed in non-sexual relationships with friends, relatives and work mates.
One can either present oneself to the world as a sick person or as a well person. If you think of yourself as a sick person and play that role, you will give people the impression that the only thing that matters about you is your stoma. If you do this, other people will very likely respond by treating you like an invalid. On the other hand, you can present yourself to others as someone who was ill and now has a stoma which is part, but not the only part, of your life. There are other aspects of you that are much more important that your stoma; your job, your family, your good looks, your wit, your charm or whatever. Others will take their cue from you. If you are able to show that while you recognize that you have your stoma, it is not important in terms of the way you want to live your life, then that is what will most likely occur. If you want to be an invalid and you want to be treated by other people as an invalid, you will never enjoy a good healthy relationships and sex life.
Making Love
How do ostomates make love? The answer is that they make love in exactly the same way as people without stomas do. All the conventional lovemaking positions are usually possible for ostomates. It is a matter of taste and a matter of what you are comfortable with.
Remember that being tender, loving, kissing and touching are all part of making love. You will need to take it gently and the tenderness and friendliness that are part of the pleasure of lovemaking is where you should begin.
The simplest problem facing the ostomate is the appliance that may impede movement and get in the way. If the appliance is emptied before intercourse it can be folded up and trapped down with some tape. Keep a nice cotton cover over the appliance at all times as wearing a cover stops it rubbing on yours and your partner’s skin.
The Male Ostomate
The greatest difficulty and the most common one, which men are likely to encounter post-operatively is impotence. It is a highly complex phenomenon and may occur in men of all ages and can occur for many reasons which have nothing to do with surgery directly.
The good thing here is that this problem can be corrected by simple changes in lifestyle.
Do you try to make love when you are very tired? Are you using drugs and/or alcohol in a way that is depressing one’s sex drive? Are you trying too hard to make love, rather that treating it as a natural ordinary thing to do? The correct attitude is to be sensible. Do not try to do too much and see if going to bed earlier when you are not so tired or drinking less, will help. If these simple remedies don't assist, then it is worth seeking a medical opinion. But remember, gentleness, tenderness and being relaxed, as well as having a positive self image, is essential to a happy and enjoyable sex life.
It is ascribed by science that impotence is more likely usual for men having a colostomy than an ileostomy because there is less damage to the tissues in the latter and therefore less risk to the nerve pathways. Surgery for bowel cancer is extensive and therefore more damaging.
Temporary impotence is not unusual following stoma surgery, so don't think that all is lost if, within a couple of months after surgery, you have not begun to have sexual relations. The healing process sometimes takes a long time. Even in the case of permanent impotence, all is not lost. Over the last few years medical science has developed surgical techniques that can help some impotent men, including ostomates.
The Female Ostomate
Having a stoma is not in itself a bar to having sex and having children. Normal birth with normal vaginal delivery is quite feasible and quite common. This is, of course, dependent on the reproductive organs being undamaged and working normally. Having a stoma as such will have no effect on these; the pre-existing disease however might.
As far as the mechanics of sexual intercourse are concerned, there are several typical problems which the female stoma patient might experience. The first of these relates to the way the perineal wound heals. (The wound left when the rectum is removed). It sometimes remain tender for a considerable time following surgery and thus sexual intercourse can be painful. A second problem is that the space left when the colon is removed sometimes allows the uterus to shift backwards. This can cause pain during intercourse. Thirdly, some female ostomates find that there is a decrease in feeling and sensitivity of the clitoris. This may be due to the fact that the nerve pathways to the clitoris are impaired in surgery. Another frequent problem is vaginal dryness making intercourse difficult and uncomfortable. Finally penetration may be painful and uncomfortable, simply because of the scarring of the tissues following removal of the colon or bladder.
There are a number of solutions. For dryness, a lubricating jelly can be used. Surgical reconstruction of the perineal wound, particularly if sinuses are present, is possible. Lastly, trying different sexual positions is also a good idea if penetration is painful. If the rectum has been removed the missionary position may be uncomfortable.
Conclusion
We have examined the issues in general terms because to try to detail the entire different alternatives from all the possible diseases, the three major types of stoma, the different types of relationships people have, people's different ages and sexual experiences, would lead to a very long and complicated discussion.
In the end the best advice is to keep things in perspective. Sex can be fun, sex can be great; but it is only part of life. It is not the be all and end all of living
Thursday, January 22, 2009
Understanding Ulcerative Colitis
Understanding Ulcerative Colitis
Ronaldo S. Lora
Abstract:
The incidence of ulcerative colitis in the Philippines is worth a second look. Although it is more prevalent in the west, there had been a noted steady rise in Asia especially among Filipinos. It must be understood that any form of awareness in order to make known of this particular disease will be helpful and important since we tend to dismiss any stomach ailment as something minimal and passing. Ulcerative colitis is an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that causes chronic inflammation of the digestive tract. Like Crohn's disease, another common IBD, ulcerative colitis can be painful and debilitating and sometimes can lead to life-threatening complications. Ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease are similar – they are so similar that can be mistaken for one another. Both inflame the lining of the digestive tract, and both can cause severe bouts of watery or bloody diarrhea and abdominal pain. Ulcerative colitis usually affects only the innermost lining of the large intestine (colon) and the rectum. Crohn's disease, on the other hand, can occur anywhere in the digestive tract, often spreading deep into the layers of affected tissues. There are no known medical cure for ulcerative colitis, but therapies are available that may dramatically reduce its signs and symptoms which may even bring about a long-term remission.
I. Personal experience:
My bouts with ulcerative colitis began when I was 28-years-old. The disease was still vague and I really had no idea what I was going through during that time. The symptoms were varied: bloody diarrhea, high grade fever and constant abdominal pain. The diarrhea was so severe that I had to visit the bathroom at least six times a day or at the worst, even more. The changes that happened were so drastic that I gradually lost 25 kilos from my normal weight of 80. The blood I passed was bright red and so fresh that it took me aback for little did I know that I already had inflammatory bowel problems. This kind of situation brought me to frequent hospitalizations for intravenous hydration and blood transfusions.
II. Psychological Impact:
The doctors I first consulted were probably medically aware but not thoroughly competent and capable to treat the inflammation and severe bleeding of the digestive tract. It was unfortunate then that the easiest recourse for a stop-gap measure was the use of anti-motility tablets and nothing else. It was further aggravated when I had to take countless antibiotics that all the more complicated the situation. There were no warnings regarding what food to eat and what to avoid. I felt weaker after every hospitalization without concrete answers to my condition. After several trial and error, I met my present gastroenterologist at PGH (Philippine General Hospital) from whom I got to understand my sickness and hear ulcerative colitis for the first time. I was able to recuperate but exacerbations were very prominent.
I believe that in the Philippines, cases pertaining to inflammatory bowel disease have not yet received its proper forum and share of information although medical cases have been significant in cities particularly Manila, Davao and Batangas. Maybe, it is not that much discussed as compared to other sicknesses mainly because it has a lower incidence compared to western countries. I was so engrossed with what I was going through that I had to do research just to unburden my fears.
III. Nature of the Disease:
The term ulcerative colitis refers to the condition of an inflamed colon. It further complicates by perforating the linings of the intestines if not treated well. It most often manifests to cause symptoms between the ages of 15 and 40. The presence of fever and bloody diarrhea as I mentioned indicates colonic tissue damage. The ulcerations on the surface of the intestines can be compared when we scar and wound our outer skin and it starts to form scabs but does not completely heal because it constantly peels off due to continuous rubbing of the colon against other surfaces. Once food is taken in and peristalsis begins, the intestine becomes irritated as the food passes in a fast forward motion causing poor absorption. Also, this triggers gas, bloating and both a bloody and watery diarrhea. Sometimes, ulcerative colitis can be so detrimental that patients may develop inflammation in unrelated areas like the eyes, joints and the skin. Taking low fiber and low fat diet will lessen scratching of the colon. Other possible causes of ulcerative colitis can be attributed to an immune system dysfunction, uncooked foods that trigger bacterial infection and the pressure of stress.
IV. Medical Diagnosis and Treatment:
The best way to identify ulcerative colitis is through colonoscopy with biopsy. The doctor makes sure that the intestines are clear through laxative preparations and enema cleansing. With the aid of a monitor, a flexible fiber optic tube is inserted through the rectum to view the abnormalities inside the colon. If the pain can be tolerated, patients can watch the procedure from the screen unless otherwise they choose to be asleep.
As of the moment, oral medication called the “5-ASA” generic drugs helps in controlling down the inflammation. The familiar brands in the Philippines are Salofalk and Pentasa which are expensive given the fact that about 6 tablets of a 1 gram measurement is needed for daily maintenance. Along with these ASA drugs, is the need to take steroids in small amounts. These combinations are done to counteract constant inflammation. However, when worse comes to worse, the need for surgery cannot be disregarded as a last resort for combating ulcerative colitis. As it may seem a bleak recourse, to regain quality of life is only to go under the knife.
V. Conclusion:
Certain diseases concerning intestinal problems should no longer be overlooked nowadays. Precaution is a must especially in the food we take because there is no substitute for a healthy mind and body. As the famous tag line of the philosopher Fuerbach would say “you are what you eat” ought to keep us aware that we are mainly responsible for living a productive healthy life. There is an array of symptoms involving intestinal problems that should not be overlooked and disregarded. People in the country afflicted with ulcerative colitis or any IBD problems should be able to work with other support groups so that awareness of this disease or any sickness for that matter can be given the proper attention and advocacy.
Ronaldo S. Lora
Abstract:
The incidence of ulcerative colitis in the Philippines is worth a second look. Although it is more prevalent in the west, there had been a noted steady rise in Asia especially among Filipinos. It must be understood that any form of awareness in order to make known of this particular disease will be helpful and important since we tend to dismiss any stomach ailment as something minimal and passing. Ulcerative colitis is an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that causes chronic inflammation of the digestive tract. Like Crohn's disease, another common IBD, ulcerative colitis can be painful and debilitating and sometimes can lead to life-threatening complications. Ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease are similar – they are so similar that can be mistaken for one another. Both inflame the lining of the digestive tract, and both can cause severe bouts of watery or bloody diarrhea and abdominal pain. Ulcerative colitis usually affects only the innermost lining of the large intestine (colon) and the rectum. Crohn's disease, on the other hand, can occur anywhere in the digestive tract, often spreading deep into the layers of affected tissues. There are no known medical cure for ulcerative colitis, but therapies are available that may dramatically reduce its signs and symptoms which may even bring about a long-term remission.
I. Personal experience:
My bouts with ulcerative colitis began when I was 28-years-old. The disease was still vague and I really had no idea what I was going through during that time. The symptoms were varied: bloody diarrhea, high grade fever and constant abdominal pain. The diarrhea was so severe that I had to visit the bathroom at least six times a day or at the worst, even more. The changes that happened were so drastic that I gradually lost 25 kilos from my normal weight of 80. The blood I passed was bright red and so fresh that it took me aback for little did I know that I already had inflammatory bowel problems. This kind of situation brought me to frequent hospitalizations for intravenous hydration and blood transfusions.
II. Psychological Impact:
The doctors I first consulted were probably medically aware but not thoroughly competent and capable to treat the inflammation and severe bleeding of the digestive tract. It was unfortunate then that the easiest recourse for a stop-gap measure was the use of anti-motility tablets and nothing else. It was further aggravated when I had to take countless antibiotics that all the more complicated the situation. There were no warnings regarding what food to eat and what to avoid. I felt weaker after every hospitalization without concrete answers to my condition. After several trial and error, I met my present gastroenterologist at PGH (Philippine General Hospital) from whom I got to understand my sickness and hear ulcerative colitis for the first time. I was able to recuperate but exacerbations were very prominent.
I believe that in the Philippines, cases pertaining to inflammatory bowel disease have not yet received its proper forum and share of information although medical cases have been significant in cities particularly Manila, Davao and Batangas. Maybe, it is not that much discussed as compared to other sicknesses mainly because it has a lower incidence compared to western countries. I was so engrossed with what I was going through that I had to do research just to unburden my fears.
III. Nature of the Disease:
The term ulcerative colitis refers to the condition of an inflamed colon. It further complicates by perforating the linings of the intestines if not treated well. It most often manifests to cause symptoms between the ages of 15 and 40. The presence of fever and bloody diarrhea as I mentioned indicates colonic tissue damage. The ulcerations on the surface of the intestines can be compared when we scar and wound our outer skin and it starts to form scabs but does not completely heal because it constantly peels off due to continuous rubbing of the colon against other surfaces. Once food is taken in and peristalsis begins, the intestine becomes irritated as the food passes in a fast forward motion causing poor absorption. Also, this triggers gas, bloating and both a bloody and watery diarrhea. Sometimes, ulcerative colitis can be so detrimental that patients may develop inflammation in unrelated areas like the eyes, joints and the skin. Taking low fiber and low fat diet will lessen scratching of the colon. Other possible causes of ulcerative colitis can be attributed to an immune system dysfunction, uncooked foods that trigger bacterial infection and the pressure of stress.
IV. Medical Diagnosis and Treatment:
The best way to identify ulcerative colitis is through colonoscopy with biopsy. The doctor makes sure that the intestines are clear through laxative preparations and enema cleansing. With the aid of a monitor, a flexible fiber optic tube is inserted through the rectum to view the abnormalities inside the colon. If the pain can be tolerated, patients can watch the procedure from the screen unless otherwise they choose to be asleep.
As of the moment, oral medication called the “5-ASA” generic drugs helps in controlling down the inflammation. The familiar brands in the Philippines are Salofalk and Pentasa which are expensive given the fact that about 6 tablets of a 1 gram measurement is needed for daily maintenance. Along with these ASA drugs, is the need to take steroids in small amounts. These combinations are done to counteract constant inflammation. However, when worse comes to worse, the need for surgery cannot be disregarded as a last resort for combating ulcerative colitis. As it may seem a bleak recourse, to regain quality of life is only to go under the knife.
V. Conclusion:
Certain diseases concerning intestinal problems should no longer be overlooked nowadays. Precaution is a must especially in the food we take because there is no substitute for a healthy mind and body. As the famous tag line of the philosopher Fuerbach would say “you are what you eat” ought to keep us aware that we are mainly responsible for living a productive healthy life. There is an array of symptoms involving intestinal problems that should not be overlooked and disregarded. People in the country afflicted with ulcerative colitis or any IBD problems should be able to work with other support groups so that awareness of this disease or any sickness for that matter can be given the proper attention and advocacy.
Friday, January 16, 2009
Donation of Colostomy Bags from Canada
The arrival of ostomy bags for Mang Ver has been very timely. The ostomy appliances were courtesy of the friend of ostomates in canada under President Astrid.
Mang Ver, 53-years-old, as he is commonly called is a taxi driver by profession. He contracted a mass in the large intestine which at first he did not pay attention. He then noticed stomach cramps and constipation. When the symptoms presented itself, it was the only time that he went to the hospital for a check-up. It was found out that the mass had grown and had been blocking the passage of the stool that was causing his bloody diarrhea.
After a biopsy was made, it was found out to be rectal cancer. There and then, after the check-up, it was advised to have the cancer portion removed. He was diagnosed with rectal cancer and had his surgery for colostomy on February 27, 2008. This was succeeded with cobalt therapy for the next 25 days after being finally diagnosed with stage 2 rectal cancer.
Mang Ver is thankful for the donation of the supply of bags coming from FOW-C inasmuch as for the span of 6 months, beginning from February up to July, he was contented to use only 3 colostomy bags owing to the fact that they were poor and he had no work.
What he did to sustain the use of the wafer was that when the stomahesive wafer has dissolved with the white plastic remaining, he washes it out thoroughly and then reinforces it with the hard plastic from playing cards. The playing card is cut with a hole in the middle. He reattaches the overused colostomy bag and puts micropore tape around the stoma. Consequently, although well improvised, the bag continuously smells.
Due to financial constraints, He had been accustomed too of not wearing any colobag at one point of his life with the stoma exposed and hanging out. Because of this he stays inside his room and has since then stop driving/working as a taxi driver. He used to sell food as a way to earn but then his neighbors never bought from him learning upon his condition.
Mang Ver tells me that the bags will be a lot of help and will somehow bring him back some confidence in mingling with his friends and neighbors again. Hopefully, it can possibly give him enough courage to get back to mainstream society and go back to work as a taxi driver once again.
Mang Ver, 53-years-old, as he is commonly called is a taxi driver by profession. He contracted a mass in the large intestine which at first he did not pay attention. He then noticed stomach cramps and constipation. When the symptoms presented itself, it was the only time that he went to the hospital for a check-up. It was found out that the mass had grown and had been blocking the passage of the stool that was causing his bloody diarrhea.
After a biopsy was made, it was found out to be rectal cancer. There and then, after the check-up, it was advised to have the cancer portion removed. He was diagnosed with rectal cancer and had his surgery for colostomy on February 27, 2008. This was succeeded with cobalt therapy for the next 25 days after being finally diagnosed with stage 2 rectal cancer.
Mang Ver is thankful for the donation of the supply of bags coming from FOW-C inasmuch as for the span of 6 months, beginning from February up to July, he was contented to use only 3 colostomy bags owing to the fact that they were poor and he had no work.
What he did to sustain the use of the wafer was that when the stomahesive wafer has dissolved with the white plastic remaining, he washes it out thoroughly and then reinforces it with the hard plastic from playing cards. The playing card is cut with a hole in the middle. He reattaches the overused colostomy bag and puts micropore tape around the stoma. Consequently, although well improvised, the bag continuously smells.
Due to financial constraints, He had been accustomed too of not wearing any colobag at one point of his life with the stoma exposed and hanging out. Because of this he stays inside his room and has since then stop driving/working as a taxi driver. He used to sell food as a way to earn but then his neighbors never bought from him learning upon his condition.
Mang Ver tells me that the bags will be a lot of help and will somehow bring him back some confidence in mingling with his friends and neighbors again. Hopefully, it can possibly give him enough courage to get back to mainstream society and go back to work as a taxi driver once again.
Securing the Ostomy Clip Bag
We are all familiar with the reliable rubber band. It is a short length of rubber and latex formed in the shape of a loop. These bands are typically used to hold multiple objects together.
We get to play with rubber bands when we were still small. However, up to now it still serves a lot of purpose especially for ostomy living.
I consider the rubber band as an additional ostomy appliance too. I have several of them kept along my ostomy kit. For added security, I use them to secure the removable clip of my colostomy bag. It gives me extra confidence that the clip although secured, will not further slip away.
I advise using rubber bands because I had accidents where the ostomy bag clip slipped away from pouch bag. This can happen in instances when I get to pull to change trousers or just getting stuck between chairs transferring from one one place to another. What can be more humiliating is the mess and smell not to mention the embarrassment when people around would get to find out about the spillage.
Hence, I always remember the saying “Better be safe than sorry.” Every moment, I don’t forget to secure my clip with a rubber band.
We get to play with rubber bands when we were still small. However, up to now it still serves a lot of purpose especially for ostomy living.
I consider the rubber band as an additional ostomy appliance too. I have several of them kept along my ostomy kit. For added security, I use them to secure the removable clip of my colostomy bag. It gives me extra confidence that the clip although secured, will not further slip away.
I advise using rubber bands because I had accidents where the ostomy bag clip slipped away from pouch bag. This can happen in instances when I get to pull to change trousers or just getting stuck between chairs transferring from one one place to another. What can be more humiliating is the mess and smell not to mention the embarrassment when people around would get to find out about the spillage.
Hence, I always remember the saying “Better be safe than sorry.” Every moment, I don’t forget to secure my clip with a rubber band.
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