What can lead to constipation?
Constipation can develop for several reasons, and not all of them are directly linked to having a stoma.
Some of the more common causes include:
- A diet that is low in fibre or lacks variety
- Not drinking enough fluids
- Reduced physical activity
- Certain medications, including some pain relief and antidepressants
Being aware of these factors can help you identify what might be contributing to changes in your stoma output.
Ways to relieve constipation
If you are experiencing constipation, there are some simple steps that are often recommended as a starting point.
Increasing your fluid intake is important, as this helps keep stool softer and easier to pass. Alongside this, adding more fibre-rich foods to your diet (such as wholemeal bread, wholegrain pasta, fruit and vegetables) can help support regular bowel movement.
If constipation continues despite adjusting your diet and fluid intake, it’s a good idea to speak with your stoma care nurse or another healthcare professional for further advice.
Using laxatives: what to be aware of
It’s common to wonder whether laxatives can help when constipation occurs.
However, for people with a stoma, laxatives need to be used with caution. They can sometimes lead to a rapid loss of fluids and electrolytes, which may cause further complications.
For those with an ileostomy, laxatives are generally not recommended. In some situations, people with a colostomy who are experiencing more severe constipation may be advised to use a mild laxative. This should only be done under guidance from a healthcare professional.
Before using any laxative, it’s always best to speak with your stoma care nurse or GP.
Reducing the risk of constipation
Preventing constipation often comes down to a few everyday habits.
Helpful steps are:
- including more fibre-rich foods in your meals, such as whole grains and porridge
- eating a variety of fresh fruit and vegetables
- drinking enough fluids throughout the day to stay well hydrated
If you are making changes to your diet, it can help to do so gradually. This allows your body time to adjust and may reduce the chance of discomfort such as wind or bloating.
Taking a steady approach
Constipation can be uncomfortable, but it is often manageable with small adjustments to your routine.
By paying attention to your diet, fluid intake and activity levels, you can support your body and reduce the likelihood of it becoming a regular problem.
And if something doesn’t feel quite right, reaching out to your stoma care nurse or healthcare professional can help you find the right support.
FAQ: Stoma and constipation
How do you treat constipation with a stoma?
Treating constipation with a stoma starts with simple, gentle measures. Drinking plenty of fluids (especially warm water, herbal teas or diluted fruit juices) is often the first and most effective step. Light physical activity such as a short walk can also help stimulate bowel movement, as can a warm compress placed on the abdomen. Fibre-rich foods like prunes, flaxseeds and wholegrains support digestion naturally. Over-the-counter laxatives should only be taken after consulting a doctor or stoma care nurse, as they can affect ostomates differently — especially those with an ileostomy, where the risk of dehydration and electrolyte imbalance is higher.
What are the first signs of a stoma blockage?
The earliest warning signs of a stoma blockage are a noticeable reduction in output or a complete absence of any output in the pouch, despite eating and drinking as normal. This is often accompanied by abdominal cramping, bloating and a feeling of pressure or fullness in the stomach. Nausea is also common in the early stages. In some cases, watery or very liquid output may still pass around a partial blockage, which can be misleading. If these symptoms persist for more than a few hours or are accompanied by vomiting, it is important to seek medical advice promptly rather than waiting to see if things resolve on their own.
Do you get constipated if you have a colostomy bag?
Yes, constipation can still occur with a colostomy, since the large bowel continues to function much as it did before surgery. A colostomy — particularly a sigmoid or descending colostomy — produces more formed stool, which makes it more susceptible to constipation than an ileostomy. Factors such as a low-fibre diet, insufficient fluid intake, reduced physical activity or certain medications can all contribute. The signs are similar to those without a stoma: infrequent or absent output, a hard and bloated abdomen, and discomfort. Adjustments to diet and fluid intake are usually the first steps, and a stoma care nurse can offer tailored guidance if constipation becomes a recurring issue.