ileostomy surgery

Hi. about 10 years ago I've been diagnosed with ulcerative colitis. I've tried other meds such as asacol, coloazol Humira and remicade I have had a hartmans procedure done in 2011 with a colostomy. Now the meds havent really worked and now I have to get a ileostomy placed in. For those who have ileostomies how is it like for a day to day basis? I have completely changed my diet. I removed spices nuts seeds sodas fried foods. What else can I improve upon?

Thanks for your input.

I'm surprised you had a colostomy - UC patients usually have their entire colon removed. Was it an emergency procedure?

Anyways, life with an ileostomy probably won't be much different to life with a colostomy. You'll have drainable bags which you have to empty several times a day. The output is more liquid and corrosive to the skin (because of digestive enzymes), which means you have to take precautions to prevent leaks, usually through the use of barrier sprays, seals, etc.

Other than that, if you've had a colostomy for two years, you are unlikely to get any wild shocks. Is this going to be a permanent stoma? As you have UC and not Crohn's, you should be a candidate for a j-pouch, which does away with the need for an external stoma.

Million miles better, imo.