When the colon, rectum or anus is unable to function normally because of a disease or injury, or needs to rest from normal function, the body must have another way to eliminate waste.

A colostomy is an opening called a stoma that connects the colon to the surface of the abdomen. This provides a new path for the waste material and gas to leave the body.

People say that having a stoma is permanent but that’s not always the case. Some stomas are temporary. It’s dependent on the individual circumstances of the illness and if the stoma is for relieving symptoms and giving the bowels a break. A lot of people have temporary stomas to aid symptoms of Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, diverticulitis, sepsis, and accidents. Whilst others due to the above mentioned have permanent stomas, it is simply down to the progression of the illness. Stomas do not discriminate, people can have them from any age.

While still in the hospital after a surgery, the patient and the family will be educated about the care of the colostomy. Living with a colostomy will require a modification of your lifestyle. Star Home Nursing offers support and assistance to patients and families by providing guidance in making the necessary adjustments and preventing complications while aiming to improve the patient’s quality of life.