This topic is all about finding the right wraps, belts, protectors, and noise-reducing options for someone who is new to living with an ileostomy. The person is about a month post-surgery and is looking for practical solutions to make daily life more comfortable and manageable. Here are some helpful insights and advice shared by others in the community:
- The person is using a 2-piece Convatec pouch and is considering trying a horizontal position. They are looking for:
1. A belt or wrap that allows swimming, showering, and wearing a horizontal pouch without breaking the bank.
2. A protective device for car seat-belts, climbing harnesses, and playing with kids and pets.
3. Opinions on "mufflers" to reduce stoma gas sounds.
4. Alternatives to Convatec due to issues with ballooning and ineffective shower stickers.
- They work in live theatre and need quiet gear that won't distract actors, with a focus on protection over appearance. A doctor might prescribe a hernia belt, which could be covered by insurance, as five small hernias were repaired during surgery.
- They have ordered trial kits from Hollister and Coloplast, and purchased various wraps, belts, and protectors, including a Stomaguard protector from Germany. However, they reported poor customer service from Pouchwear due to an unshipped order.
- They are dealing with nighttime "pillowing" and had a mishap with a pouch change, reminding themselves to double-check the drain closure.
Advice and insights from the community include:
- General resources: Check out VeganOstomy.ca for noise-reduction ideas.
- Wraps and belts for swimming and daily wear:
1. Stealth Belt is recommended for water and daily use, providing secure support and camouflage.
2. Ostomy Secrets offers simple elastic wraps for concealment and support.
3. A basic maternity "tummy sleeve" can also work for concealment and swimming.
4. Nu-Hope hernia belt offers firm support and may be covered by insurance with a prescription.
5. Keep the seat-belt positioned above the stoma when wearing any belt.
- Pouching systems and accessories:
1. Coloplast SenSura Mio 2-piece is considered more reliable than Convatec by several users.
2. Sample Hollister and Coloplast systems before making a switch.
3. For frequent ballooning, alternative vents, horizontal wear, and a snug belt can help.
- Gas and output management:
1. Simethicone (Gas-X) can reduce ballooning with gassy meals.
2. Generic Imodium or Lomotil before meals can slow output and firm stool in an ileostomy.
- Noise ("mufflers"):
1. No specific commercial "muffler" was named, but filters and gas-reducing tablets are recommended.
2. If noise happens, it's best to laugh it off.
- Skin care routine:
1. Change the wafer/pouch every 3 days or sooner.
2. Cleanse with mild soap without moisturizers, rinse well, and dry thoroughly.
3. Remove residual adhesive, then apply a barrier film before placing a new wafer.
4. Hollister's Adapt deodorizer is suggested for pouch odor control.
- Purchasing cautions:
1. Positive experience with Stomaguard from Germany.
2. Negative experience with Pouchwear due to order delays and lack of communication; users are advised to be cautious.
These insights and tips are shared by fellow ostomates who have been through similar experiences and are eager to help others navigate their new lifestyle with confidence and ease.
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