Possible complications of a colostomy
As with any operation, complications can happen during or after a colostomy. Your doctor will explain the risks to you before the procedure.
Infection
There's a small chance you could get an infection around your stoma. This is usually treated with antibiotics.
Dehydration
Having a colostomy makes it harder to stay hydrated.
If you notice signs of dehydration such as fatigue, dry mouth or lots of poo coming out of your stoma, speak to your stoma nurse or another healthcare professional to get advice.
Bowel blockage or obstruction
If less poo is coming out of your stoma than usual, or your stoma stops producing poo, you may have a bowel blockage. A blockage is serious because your bowel could burst (rupture), and you may need further surgery.
Speak to your stoma nurse urgently if you have cramps, are feeling sick or notice swelling around your stoma.
Urgent advice: Ask for an urgent GP appointment or get help from NHS 111 if:
You've had a colostomy and:
- your temperature is very high, or you feel hot and shivery
- you have lots of blood coming from your stoma, or in your stoma bag
- you have signs of dehydration
- poo has not come out of your stoma for much longer than is normal for you, or you feel uncomfortable
- you have severe tummy pain
- you're feeling sick or being sick – your vomit may be green
These could be signs of an infection or a bowel obstruction.
You can call 111 or get help from 111 online.
Problems with your stoma
You may get problems with your stoma, which can include:
- swelling around the stoma (a hernia) – this may be managed by your stoma nurse or with surgery
- the stoma going back into your tummy instead of sticking out (stoma retraction) – different types of bags and accessories can help
- the stoma coming out too far above the skin (stoma prolapse) – different types of bags can help
- skin damage around the stoma – this can be helped with special products such as sprays or wipes and measuring your stoma regularly to make sure the bag fits well
Find out more about living with a stoma on the Crohn's and Colitis UK website
Non-urgent advice: Contact your stoma nurse or GP if:
- you think you have a problem with your stoma or it's causing skin problems
They can advise if further surgery may be needed, or about products that might help.