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| The chances are there'll be many questions that you'd like answered about regaining the work/life balance. Below, we've listed answers to some of the more frequently asked questions regarding returning to work after ostomy surgery. |
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| FAQs |
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| I want to go back to work. When is a good time after my surgery? |
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| Since I have gone back to work I keep having periods where I just feel tired all the time. Is this normal? |
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| I have a desk job and I had surgery which has left my bottom really sore. What should I do? |
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| I have a job that is very active and I move around a lot during the day. I am worried my pouch will fall off with all this activity. What should I do? |
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I want to go back to work. When is a good time after my surgery?
Don't rush unnecessarily back to work. Going back too early is likely to cause more problems in the long run. Think of your return to work as a series of steps to be taken one at a time. The time it takes to get back into work varies from person to person depending on the severity of the disease, the reason for and type of surgery, recovery time, age and the type of job. It’s always a good idea to discuss this timing with your doctor or surgeon.
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Since I have gone back to work I keep having periods where I just feel tired all the time. Is this normal?
For many, fatigue can be a real problem, even months after your operation. More often than not, people start back to work gradually, (perhaps a couple of mornings a week at first) before going back full-time. Unfortunately, it’s not always possible to do this in all jobs. It’s a good idea to check the employment and job rules at any place of work before requesting or receiving either time off work or reduced time.
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I have a desk job and I had surgery which has left my bottom really sore. What should I do?
Some people, such as those who have had rectal surgery as well, will have rather sore or tender bottoms for a good while after their operations. The solution can be simple: make sure the chair is comfortable or there’s a cushion to sit on. These problems with the 'perineal wound,' as it’s known, usually disappear after a few months. If they don't, consult a doctor.
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I have a job that is very active and I move around a lot during the day. I am worried my pouch will fall off with all this activity. What should I do?
As far as jobs which involve a lot of bending and stretching are concerned, two useful things can help. Wear a pouch that can be attached to a stoma belt while working. This can give added security. Wear loose fitting clothing if needed or avoid constricting belts and tight trousers. A common problem is sweating at the area where the pouch is attached to the skin which can reduce the effectiveness of the adhesive holding the appliance to the skin. The pouch may have to be changed more frequently in these circumstances. Alternatively there are more durable skin barriers available that cope better with perspiration than others.
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