What if you get an ileostomy blockage or obstruction?

What is an ileostomy blockage or obstruction?

This is a blocked or obstructed portion of your bowel which prevents your stoma functioning normally.

What causes a blockage or obstruction?

A lump of undigested food can block an ileostomy. This type of blockage is normally relieved by the sudden and often explosive passage of that lump of food.
Adhesions. These are internal bands of scar tissue which can sometimes cause internal organs to stick together. Adhesions can kink, twist or pull the bowel causing an obstruction.

Signs and symptoms of a blockage or obstruction

Bloated and/or swollen tummy.
Abdominal pain and/or cramp.
Nausea and/or Vomiting.
No waste from your stoma.
Watery output from your stoma.
Swollen stoma.
Signs of dehydration.

What to do if you develop signs and symptoms of a blockage or obstruction

Stop eating solid food.
Increase your intake of fluids. Drink Cola or sports drinks as well as water.
If your stoma is swollen, remove your pouch and replace it with one with a larger opening.
Massage your tummy and try to relax.
Soak in a warm bath. This will relax your abdominal muscles and may relieve the blockage by allowing the passage of an undigested lump of food.
Do not wait too long to speak to your doctor or stoma care nurse.
Do not take a laxative.
Do not insert anything into your stoma unless instructed to do so and under the supervision of a health care professional.
Do not eat or drink if you are vomiting, not passing anything from your stoma or both of these.

Hints and tips

Take time to chew your food properly.
Some foods are more likely to cause problems than others, you may want to limit or avoid these.

It is important to speak to your doctor or stoma care nurse if your symptoms persist for over 8 hours, OR if you have symptoms of dehydration such as dry mouth, headache, dark concentrated urine or a decrease in the amount of urine passed. Hospital admission may be required. Foods that may cause blockage or obstruction