It looks like the holidays are slowing creeping up on us and with that comes a lot of different things. Lots of family and friends tend to get together more. That means lots of people are traveling and also eating and drinking more. With that comes the variety of all the drinks that people are bringing and let's face it, it makes the holidays more fun. But what if you just got your stoma and you are a bit new to the whole holiday scene. Well, there are some things to keep in mind when it comes to safety and well just being polite! So I want to go over some different areas that are involved when it comes to drinks and an ostomy.

We all know that alcohol has its own effects and it also has extra effects on those who have a stoma. But know that not drinking enough during the holiday season is also a bad thing. The different effects on your stoma output can be a bit unsettling to the best thing is simply to attempt to be as safe as you can. If you have a colostomy and don't drink enough then you may be in for a rough time. This could mean that a pancacking effect takes place and it is simply awful. Firmer stools are more likely with less fluids and you will have pellets or really tough things dropping into your pouch. This can also mean that it could give a chance to puncture your pouch. This would be awful for you and everyone around, so remember to stay hydrated when you are out and about.

If you have an ileostomy and don't drink enough the effects will simply seem like dehydration. Because well you guessed it, dehydration is working in. You will have less urine in your bag and it will likely be a dark and amber color. This could lead to a ruined holiday due to having headaches, dizziness and well-being light-headed is simply no fun. The effects of dehydration are terrible and can make you a not so nice person to be around as well. Remember you should be drinking 8 to 10 regular cups of water each day and if you are partying that also applies. So keep count and stay safe. It really is important.

Now, what about when you get into drinking those fizzy carbonated beverages when you are out with your friends and family. It is most likely that this will cause your stoma to make some more noise. It will get windy or so they say and your pouch may also start to enlarge. This is due to all the gasses that are happening. This can also happen when you fly and it is greatly suggested not to drink carbonated beverages on a plane if you have an stoma. It could get rather uncomfortable especially when seat belts are necessary. So what about alcohol?

Well if you don't drink enough fluids and get dehydrated while drinking adult beverages you could end up with the same effects of above. I highly suggest staying moderated when drinking. You really don't want to be unable to drink and change your pouch. Bad things can happen if you are unable to help yourself, so don't get drunk. Stay safe and Have fun this Holiday Season!