Traveling to Mexico with an ileostomy can be a bit daunting, especially if it's your first trip since surgery. The warm and humid climate might raise concerns about how well your ostomy appliance will hold up. Here are some helpful tips and advice from others who have been in similar situations:
- Climate and Wear-Time
- People who have traveled to hot and humid places like Florida, Ontario in the summer, and Mexico generally report that their wear-time remains normal, up to about 7 days. However, some experience slight skin irritation, so it's a good idea to bring stoma powder if you're prone to soreness.
- If you find yourself sweating a lot or walking long distances, consider using humidity or ostomy tape to reinforce the seal.
- Water Activities
- Many swimmers have found that being in the pool or ocean doesn't reduce wear-time.
- It's recommended to wear a wrap to keep the pouch close to your body, switch to closed pouches for swimming, add extra tape, and towel- or blow-dry the fabric backing afterward to prevent skin irritation.
- Supplies and Packing
- Bring at least twice the supplies you normally use and pack them in your carry-on, as airlines typically don't count medical supplies against baggage limits.
- Pre-cut your wafers to avoid carrying scissors through security.
- Make sure to include flanges, pouches, extra tape or humidity tape, stoma powder, closed pouches for swimming, and some of your own water or pre-moistened wipes for skin cleaning.
- Airport and Flight Tips
- Use assistance or medical-device security lines if available.
- Choose an aisle seat near the restroom for convenience.
- To slow output before flying, consider taking Imodium or eating a banana.
- You can find a printable travel/medical card on the United Ostomy Associations of America (UOAA) website.
- Food and Hydration
- Stick to bottled water and avoid beach or street food of uncertain cleanliness to stay well-hydrated.
- Eating rice or other higher-fiber foods can help thicken output, but steer clear of under-cooked pork or other risky foods.
- Brands and Products
- Some travelers have successfully used Dansac Invent pouches during extended stays in Mexico.
- Hollister pre-cut flanges are also mentioned as a reliable option.
- Humidity tape (brand not specified) can provide extra seal security.
- Overall Message
- The most common advice from fellow travelers is to take extra supplies, stay hydrated, and not to overthink it. Most importantly, remember to have fun and enjoy your trip!
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