Stoma hernia – Everything you need to know

Not everyone is familiar with the term "hernia" and knows what it is associated with. In a nutshell: a hernia, occurs when an internal part of the body pushes through a weak point in the muscle or the surrounding wall and protrudes. It can occur anywhere between the neck and hips, but most commonly in the abdomen and groin.

What causes a stoma hernia?

Hernias can also develop in the area around the stoma. In this case, these are called parastomal hernias. The underlying reason for hernias is usually a combination of muscle weakness and overloading of the affected area. After the stoma operation, the abdominal wall is weakened and therefore much more susceptible to a hernia than before. Hernias are unfortunately quite common among people with a stoma and can also develop over time as the surrounding area stretches and weakens.

What does a stoma hernia look like?

A stoma hernia resembles a bulge or a lump. Many people describe it a looking like a “golf ball” or a “grapefruit” behind their stoma. A hernia can lead to visible changes of your stoma. A hernia could make it look more pronounced, larger or flatter or possibly change its shape completely. A stoma hernia can be seen quite clearly when you are standing up, but can often disappear as soon as you lie down.

Symptoms of a stoma hernia

There are a few signs that may indicate a stoma hernia. If you notice one or more of these symptoms, there is no need to worry. Hernias are not usually emergencies. Nevertheless, you should have your symptoms examined by your doctor. Some symptoms of a stoma hernia may include the following:

A bulge behind your stoma

Discomfort or pain around your stoma, this is often described as a “dragging sensation”

Issues with keeping your stoma pouch in place

Bloating

Changes in bowel habits from your stoma

Discomfort or pain when you cough or lift things

What can be done?

It is always recommended to contact your stoma care nurse or GP if you suspect a hernia. Whilst stoma hernias are nothing to worry about, but should not be ignored - this could make the situation even worse. Your healthcare professionals can reassure you and give you tips on how to deal with the symptoms your hernia is causing. If left untreated, hernias can grow larger and cause further discomfort and problems. In some circumstances, hernias can end up twisting a part of the bowel, which requires a surgery. Although this is very rare, it can happen.

Contributing factors to developing a stoma hernia

There are a few things that can increase your risk of getting a stoma hernia, these include:

Having had previous abdominal surgery

Long term constipation

Obesity

Smoking

Infection following your stoma surgery

Malnutrition

Use of steroids

However, the risk of a hernia is also influenced by the following points:

High Age

Existing medical conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure or respiratory diseases

Our tips for managing a stoma hernia

If you have a parastomal hernia, the following aspects can have a positive influence on the regression of the hernia:

Follow a healthy and balanced diet

Avoid any heavy lifting

Try some light core exercises to help strengthen your abdominal muscles, your stoma care nurse may give you a booklet to work from

Sleep on the opposite side to your stoma

Maintain good posture

Regularly monitor your stoma to ensure it’s functioning normally

Wear the support garment that is provided to you

Please remember that it is always a good idea to contact your stoma care nurse or doctor if you notice any abnormalities on and around your stoma.

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