What are a stoma and a stoma hernia?
The word "stoma" comes from the Greek *stoma* and means mouth or opening. A stoma involves creating an opening through the abdominal wall to alter the pathway for emptying the bowel or bladder and divert urine and stool into a stoma bag. This opening is created surgically. A stoma may be required due to disease or injury affecting the intestines or urinary tract and can be either permanent or temporary.
A common complication in people with a stoma is a parastomal hernia, also known as a stomal hernia. It appears as a bulge under the skin around the stoma and can vary in shape and size. One reason hernias develop is that the abdominal muscles become weakened during stoma surgery. Parastomal hernias are most common in people with a colostomy. They can cause various problems, including difficulties with stoma appliance management, changes in stool consistency and an overall reduced quality of life. To reduce the risk of developing a hernia, it is advisable to be careful with heavy lifting and strenuous exercise that engages the abdominal muscles. Maintaining a healthy weight and looking after your general health are also important. Wearing an abdominal support garment or support belt can help support the torso.
A colostomy is a stoma created from the large intestine (colon), usually located on the left side of the abdomen. Reasons for a colostomy may include cancer, inflammation, diverticular disease and faecal incontinence.
An ileostomy is created from the lower part of the small intestine and is often located on the right side of the abdomen. It may be needed for conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease and cancer. A urostomy diverts urine from the urinary tract and is often performed when the bladder is removed due to cancer or in cases involving neurological disorders. A urostomy is often located on the right side.
What problems can a parastomal hernia cause?
A parastomal hernia can affect daily life in different ways. The bulge may feel heavy or uncomfortable, and it can become more difficult to get the stoma appliance to fit securely. Symptoms vary from person to person, and not all parastomal hernias require surgery.
How can you tell if you have a parastomal hernia?
A change in the shape of the abdomen or a new bulge around the stoma may be a sign of a parastomal hernia. If you suspect that you have developed a hernia, contact your stoma nurse or doctor for an assessment. They can help determine what follow-up or treatment may be needed.
When should you seek medical advice?
Seek urgent medical attention if the bulge suddenly becomes hard or very painful, especially if you also experience nausea or vomiting. These may be signs of a complication that requires prompt assessment.
