This topic is about a person who is dealing with more frequent leaks from their ostomy barrier and is trying to figure out why this is happening. They suspect it might be due to a recent weight gain or using older supplies. Here are some helpful insights and advice that might be useful:

1. Weight, Heat & Skin Changes
- Gaining extra weight, especially around the abdomen, can change how the barrier fits, potentially causing leaks. Some people find they need to switch to a deeper convexity, add a convex ring, or even change brands after gaining weight.
- Hot weather, humidity, and hot showers can soften the barrier material, leading to leaks or skin irritation. Taking shorter, cooler showers might help.

2. Product Age, Storage & “Bad Batches”
- Ostomy supplies generally last about 5 years if kept in a cool, dry place. Heat can reduce their lifespan.
- On ConvaTec boxes, the expiry date is hidden in the Lot code. For example, a code like 8A06114 means the product was made on January 6, 2018, and expires 5 years later.
- Some boxes, like those from Coloplast in the UK, clearly show the manufacture and use-by dates.
- Sometimes, a new product formulation or a bad batch can cause issues. If you suspect this, contact the manufacturer.

3. Leak Investigation Steps
- Identify exactly where leaks happen and check how well the barrier sticks when you remove it.
- Take photos of each removal step and share them with your ostomy nurse or the product manufacturer for advice.
- Determine if the output is getting under the ring or if the ring itself is breaking down.

4. Accessory & Product Options
- Adding a convex ring under the wafer can help improve the fit and fill small gaps.
- Products like Stomahesive paste or Eakin Cohesive Seals can fill gaps, though their effectiveness can vary.
- Coloplast offers a new star-shaped flange that might work better for uneven surfaces or hernias, and samples are available.

5. Output Consistency & Diet
- Watery or high-volume output can quickly erode the barrier. This might be linked to certain foods, like those high in sugars or FODMAPs.
- Following a low-FODMAP diet and reducing certain sugars and foods helped some people reduce leaks.

6. Professional Support
- Ostomy nurses can offer valuable advice and product samples, though experiences with them can vary. Success often comes from personal troubleshooting and communication with manufacturers.