Our digestive systems produce gas as a byproduct of eating and digesting food. This can be a bit of a problem for those with an ileostomy or ostomy. Ostomates can choose from either a one-piece or two-piece pouching system depending on their lifestyle and personal preference. Both of these types of systems can incorporate a charcoal filter to allow this gas/wind to be released.
As we produce gas during digestion, we need to pass this gas/wind. For ostomates this is typically through their pouching system filters. When these filters get wet or blocked by stoma output there can be a backup of gas/wind. As you can imagine this can lead to ballooning in the ostomy pouch. How do you keep your ostomy bag from ballooning? Learning what causes ballooning can go a long way in how to deal with this issue as well as help you maintain your confidence. Pouching systems that incorporate charcoal filters can still experience ballooning if excessive amounts of gas are produced. Unfortunately, this is a frequent problem that ostomates need to manage, cope with, and accept.
Excessive gas building up gradually in your pouching system can make it seem like you’re wearing a balloon under your clothing. This excessive gas buildup can because by:
Our diet can be the biggest culprit in producing excessive gas passing into an ostomate’s pouching system. We should try to avoid certain foods that can lead to producing more gas/wind. Some of these gas producing foods include:
With ballooning a frequent problem, what’s the best way to keep an ostomy bag from ballooning and causing a blowout? Dealing with ballooning in your ostomy apparatus system can be a multifaceted approach to ensure proper results. Some steps you can take are:
Yes, gas buildup or ballooning is a common occurrence that ostomates need to accept and manage. If you have difficulty managing this condition at home, be sure to consult your doctor or ostomy nurse for assistance. Visit HPFY and view our extensive ostomy supply inventory to help prevent ballooning.
Living with an ostomy can be a delicate balance of maintaining a lifestyle and doing what’s right for your sensitive peristomal skin. While most treatments can be handled at home when you experience issues with your ostomy, there are times you should seek medical attention. These include:
Disclaimer: All content found on our website, including images, videos, infographics, and text were created solely for informational purposes. Our reviewed content should never be used for the purpose of diagnosis or treatment of any medical conditions. Content shared on our websites is not meant to be used as a substitute for advice from a certified medical professional. Reliance on the information provided on our website as a basis for patient treatment is solely at your own risk. We urge all our customers to always consult a physician or a certified medical professional before trying or using a new medical product.
Kevin Cleary has been a Health Products For You contributor for many years and has a degree in marketing. His health and wellness journey has a very personal meaning and has guided him in his content writing for HPFY.
In 2006, ...
Enteral Feeding: The What, When, and How
When traditional oral intake is not feasible, enteral feeding comes into play. It supports nutritional needs of individuals recovering from an injury or surgery. Dive into this informative article and learn what, when, why, and how of enteral feeding and ensure optimal patient care.
Using the Carpal Solution Carpal Tunnel Wrist Support
Looking for a non-invasive option to manage carpal tunnel symptoms? Experience relief from constant tingling and pain with this Carpal Solution Wrist Support. Read this article to know about the unique features and benefits of this wrist support brace designed to deal with CTS and find why it is one of the most reliable wrist braces available on the market.
Top 5 Best Reviewed Nebulizers of 2023
Need an effective and affordable nebulizer? Look no further, in this article we offer 5 of our best reviewed nebulizers that are loved by our customers. Click to read more and find the perfect nebulizer for all your respiratory needs.
10 Best Overnight Adult Diapers
Worried about nighttime leaks? Say goodbye to leakage with our ten best overnight adult diapers and wake up refreshed and dry.
Five Best Cervical Traction Devices of 2023
Neck pain can wreak havoc on your otherwise healthy life. Traction device improves your cervical health and overall well-being. Read more to find our best cervical traction devices designed to curb the stiffness and discomfort of cervical muscles.