Inspecting Your Stoma for any Problems

Checking a stoma

At each pouch change, check your stoma for color, shape and function. Watch for stenosis, prolapse or swelling. Urostomates should be on the lookout for crystal formation. Be conscious of any stoma complication.

Bleeding stoma
A bleeding can occur with rubbing of the stoma because the mucous membrane, out of which the stoma is formed, is highly vascular. The bleeding usually stops quickly otherwise, see a doctor.

Can a stoma get cut?
Cuts or lacerations of the stoma can occur and some can be quite serious. Since a stoma has no sensory nerves, it can get without causing no pain. Causes of stoma laceration can include
1) shifting of wafer or pouch
2) too small an opening of the pouch
3) incorrect pouch application etc

How should a stoma be protected?
Protect stoma's from direct physical blows, tight clothing and belt buckles.