Physical exercise for people with an ostomy is a key tool for improving quality of life, general health, and urinary and renal well-being. Far from being a limitation, adapted physical activity helps maintain renal function, promotes circulation, and contributes to the balance of the urinary system.
With proper practice and some specific care, it is possible to exercise safely and beneficially.
Benefits of exercise for people with an ostomy
Regular physical activity can provide multiple benefits:
- Improves blood circulation, which is key for renal function
- Helps maintain a healthy weight
- Promotes intestinal transit and general well-being
- Contributes to blood pressure control
- Reduces the risk of metabolic complications
These factors are directly related to renal and urinary health.
Safe exercise: keys to getting started
1. Adapt the intensity
It is recommended to start with low-impact activities like walking, swimming, or yoga, and to increase progressively according to tolerance.
2. Protect the stoma area
Wearing comfortable sportswear and using appropriate devices helps prevent discomfort or irritation during exercise.
3. Avoid dehydration
Proper hydration is essential for renal function and general well-being, especially for people with an ostomy.
4. Listen to your body
Fatigue, discomfort, or changes in the stoma are signals to adjust the intensity or stop the activity.
Exercise and urinary health
Although people with an ostomy may have urinary or intestinal diversions, maintaining good physical condition remains key to:
- Promoting fluid balance
- Reducing the risk of infections associated with metabolic imbalances
- Improving immune response
Exercise and skin care
Physical activity can lead to sweating and friction around the device area, so hygiene and skin care are fundamental to avoiding discomfort.
Urogelus® is a natural intimate gel with 1% tea tree oil that helps people with an ostomy to:
- Keep the stoma area clean and disinfected
- Provide a sense of freshness and comfort
- Relieve irritation and itching after sweating
- Promote skin well-being in sensitive areas
Conclusion
Safe physical exercise for people with an ostomy is an essential part of health care. Adapting the activity, maintaining good hydration, and taking care of the skin allows for the improvement of both renal function and general well-being.
Support from hygiene solutions like Urogelus® and Nodorin® can help increase daily comfort and facilitate an active, safe, and healthy life.
References:
*1 Berti-Hearn, L., & Elliott, B. (2019). Urostomy care: A guide for home care clinicians. Home Healthcare Now, 37(5), 248–255. https://doi.org/10.1097/NHH.0000000000000792
*2Gray, M., Colwell, J. C., Doughty, D., Goldberg, M., Hoeflok, J., Manson, A., McNichol, L., & Rao, S. (2013). Peristomal moisture-associated skin damage in adults with fecal ostomies: A comprehensive review and consensus. Journal of Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nursing, 40(4), 389–399. https://doi.org/10.1097/WON.0b013e3182944340
*3Varma, S. (2009). A healthy lifestyle for the ostomist in relation to exercise. British Journal of Nursing, 18(Suppl. 17), S18–S22. https://doi.org/10.12968/bjon.2009.18.Sup6.44171
