Living an Active Life with Ostomy

Although undergoing extensive surgery resulting in the use of ostomy products is life changing, you will still be able to life a full and happy life. With the amount of research and technology available, the activities you loved before surgery will be a part of your life after surgery.

Recovering from Surgery

As you can imagine, recovery is key in helping to resume your normal, everyday functions. Depending on the surgery and what your doctor says, a few weeks to a few months is necessary for proper healing to take place. Don’t rush it - the healing process takes time and requires patience. Once you’re ready to resume normal activities, it is important to consult your doctor about the different types of activities you want to participate in. Returning to work, and hobbies, such as sports and traveling are possible, but may require extra effort and special consideration.

Today’s Ostomy Products

Today, ostomy products and ostomy accessories make it simpler to perform the activities you loved to partake in before surgery. The pouches you will use, in general, sit flat against your body and are easy to wear under clothing. Many products are available to help you get the most out of your day. Ostomy shields provide protection from things like belts, seatbelts and tricky movements. Ostomy belts help to keep your pouch in place during sports like basketball and golf. Ostomy pouch covers give you the ability to customize your ostomy bag, helping in concealing and giving you the chance to be creative.

Daily Activities

When you’re finally able to return to your daily life, it’s important to take precautions. If your job is labor intensive, you may want to invest in a special support for your ostomy products or use an ostomy belt to keep the pouch in place. Leisurely sports shouldn’t require extra accessories but contact sports may require an ostomy belt as well. While traveling, make sure you take all of your ostomy products and accessories with you and have extras just in case something happens to the originals. Cutting your pouches at home before you venture out can help save time and traveling with a doctor’s note is also advised. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.

Searching for Support

Garnering support from those around you may be the most important way to get back to your normal life. Many aren’t educated about their role in the process of helping you to make the transition. If you don’t feel comfortable talking about your new life with those around you just yet, turning to online help may be the next best step. There are many support groups online and threads to help with any questions and issues that may arise. The most useful action is gathering information so you can be informed and help to inform others.

If you’re looking for a place to find ostomy products, CanMedDirect.ca is the right site for buying supplies online. Finding the right accessories, along with having support from an outside source will be beneficial in helping you return to what you love.