Ask Aunt Lori: most asked questions about my PEG tube
Feeding tubes seem to be something that is very interesting to most people and I've been asked about it a lot! Though there are some that I haven't been asked much, a few come up often.
My PEG tube bumper was put on incorrectly - twice: the second time
I'm still surprised this was ever an issue the first time. It left me wary and annoyed with IR in general. When I was hospitalized for a very bad infection in my abdomen, my PEG tube had to be replaced. It was not in the right position and bleeding and leaking often, as well as causing a lot of pain!
My PEG tube bumper was put on incorrectly - twice: the first time
I had developed some friction irritation from a rectangular bumper on a PEG and requested a round one. My insurance requires me to get my PEG tubes replaced by an interventional radiologist, so I woke up bright and early for my appointment at the local IR clinic.
My favorite PEG tube products
There is an abundance of products for PEG tubes and PEG tubes themselves! I've had a tube since early 2016 and I've used a lot of products and tube types!
PEG tube basics: care & complications
Particularly because of the location, daily care of your stoma (the hole the tube is in) is required to keep it healthy and prevent skin irritation and infections. Much like the first time you use it, it can seem intimidating but it's quite simple!
Remember to always wash your hands before and after doing anything with the site!
PEG tube basics: usage
Feeding
Using a PEG tube may seem scary and intimidating at first, but it's easy once the anxiety goes away!
Most tubes have adapters with two or three ports; the balloon type has three, and the ones without a balloon have two. NEVER use the smaller port that goes to the balloon; only use the larger ports (they usually have a cap to close them.
Taco Bell on a Mechanical Soft Diet
When following a mechanical soft diet, it is best to have foods with soft tortillas and avoid crunchier ingredients. Adding sauces, sour cream, and melted cheeses to soften and add moisture to the food. As a bonus, these items often add calories.
Blueberry Probiotic Smoothie
I experimented with different smoothies for breakfast and this was my favorite that became a staple - my nutritionist even started giving it to her other patients!