Concerns about odor are common among individuals with stomas, or those considering ostomy surgery. While the stoma itself does not inherently produce an unpleasant smell, the waste product collected in the ostomy pouch can. Effective management is possible through understanding the sources of odor and implementing appropriate strategies.
Understanding Stoma Odor
A healthy stoma does not have an odor. The smell associated with an ostomy originates from the waste product, known as effluent, collected in the ostomy pouch. Modern ostomy pouches are constructed with odor-barrier films, designed to contain smells. Odor should only be noticeable during pouch emptying or changing. A persistent or strong odor at other times can indicate an issue.
Factors Influencing Stoma Odor
Several factors can influence the odor from an ostomy. Diet plays a significant role, as certain foods contain compounds that can result in stronger-smelling waste. Examples include strong-smelling foods like onions, garlic, broccoli, cabbage, fish, eggs, and some spicy foods.
Appliance issues are common contributors to odor. Leaks from an ill-fitting pouch, infrequent emptying, inadequate cleaning, or an overfilled pouch can allow odors to escape. A stoma or peristomal (around the stoma) skin infection can produce an unusual and persistent odor. Certain medications may alter the smell of waste, and dehydration can lead to more concentrated, stronger-smelling output.
Strategies for Odor Management
Managing stoma odor involves consistent care practices and product use. Proper appliance care is important; this includes regularly emptying the pouch when it is about one-third to one-half full to prevent overfilling and strain on the seal. Thorough cleaning of the pouch opening during emptying and ensuring a secure, well-fitting seal are important steps to prevent leaks. The skin barrier should fit snugly around the stoma to avoid exposure of skin to effluent.
Dietary adjustments can help reduce odors. Individuals can identify and moderate their intake of foods known to produce stronger odors by keeping a food diary. Conversely, some foods like parsley, yogurt, and buttermilk may help reduce waste odor. Maintaining adequate hydration by drinking plenty of water helps prevent concentrated, strong-smelling waste.
Internal deodorants, such as oral medications containing bismuth subgallate or chlorophyllin, can neutralize odors from within the body. Pouch deodorants, available as liquids or gels, can be added directly into the ostomy pouch to neutralize smells. Modern pouches often incorporate charcoal filters designed to absorb and contain gas and odor.
When to Consult a Healthcare Professional
While some odor is normal, a persistent, unusual, or foul odor despite implementing management strategies warrants consultation with a healthcare professional. Consult a professional if the odor is accompanied by other symptoms, which could indicate an underlying issue. Signs such as redness, pain, swelling, or changes in the stoma’s appearance, including unusual color changes or discharge, may suggest an infection of the stoma or surrounding skin. Difficulty managing leaks or finding a well-fitting appliance, even after trying various options, should prompt a professional evaluation.