Christmas is that time of year where the food and drinks are flowing and we are consuming different foods, richer foods and possibly a bit more alcohol for some, than we would any other time in the year. Not only that, we are thinking about what to wear, and possibly visiting relatives and friends so having a stoma through this period may leave you with some questions.
Christmas for me is like any other day when it comes to my stoma, but at the beginning I was apprehensive. I was worried about my Christmas dinner as there was foods I felt I couldn’t eat due to increased risk of a blockage or increased gas in my bag. I was also concerned about drinking alcohol in case it affected my output and hydration levels and what I would wear that day to ensure I was comfortable if either of them situations happened.
My way around the food was to try what I wanted to have with my Christmas dinner on its own, leading up to Christmas day. I made sure to try one thing at a time so that if I did have any issues I knew what was causing it. I cooked the veg such as parsnips and carrots well until they were soft and chewed them well. These were the only veg I was planning to have but if you are having others just make sure they are well cooked and well chewed.
I always make sure to prepare having any alcohol by ensuring I am well hydrated beforehand and I also have so marshmallows or jelly babies to thicken my output beforehand. Respond have a product that can also help you be prepared for this, ABSORB which helps thicken the output in the bag. I also ensure to stay hydrated between drinks as they can help.
When visiting I always ensure to take an emergency change kit with me just in case which I leave in the car or to have in bag and if you are worried smells when emptying your bag the NEUTRALISE drops from Respond are my favourite!
Try not to worry. Treat it like any other day and enjoy your Christmas. Prepare where you can and remember your in control of your stoma!
