Managing stoma life over the festive period
Managing stoma life over the festive period…
It’s December already, and with December comes all the Christmas celebrations and festivities, but also pressure and sometimes unwanted feelings of anxiety, especially when living with a stoma, last year was my first with stoma so I’m going to share a few bits of advice that I am living by this year.
Set boundaries
December is usually full of plans and that in itself can be overwhelming. It’s ok to say no to things you aren’t comfortable going to. Prioritise events that are special. If you are feeling anxious, talk to someone you know will look out for you, feeling like you have a support will help you have an enjoyable time.
Food and drink
It’s probably not the best time to be trying out new foods you’ve not yet had with a stoma. As most of us stoma folk know, food is a bit of a trial and error situation. Some of us are ok with foods that other ostomates couldn’t tolerate or would cause a blockage. Christmas time isn’t the time to be risking it, as the last thing we want to be doing is missing out because we went too wild with the buffet or Christmas dinner. Stick to what you know.
Hydration is key, you may enjoy an alcoholic beverage over the festive period, but remember to stay hydrated, and not to indulge too much in carbonated drinks as these can cause discomfort too. The most important… CHEW CHEW CHEW!
Look after you
If you are staying away, be sure to pack plenty of stoma supplies, for peace of mind. When you need time out, take yourself off to a quiet place and have as long as you need to gather your thoughts. Dress in clothes that are comfortable, and possibly opt for a stretchy waistband so your stoma isn’t restricted. And most importantly, remember, it’s just a day. Take the pressure off and just enjoy being around loved ones. Stoma life can be tough, but surrounded by the people that love you most means you’ll be fully understood in anyway you deal with it. And if you’re like me, and the only thing you did this year was get through it one way or another then that’s ok too.
Wishing you a very merry Christmas, and here’s to 2025 being filled with love, happiness and most importantly health.
Love,
Nikki x
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