This topic is about adjusting to swimming and using a hot tub when you have an ileostomy, especially dealing with the challenges of heat and adhesive failure. Here are some helpful insights and advice shared by others who have faced similar situations:
- After surgery, you might notice lower energy levels even with proper hydration and diet.
- Swimming can be enjoyable, but heat from the air or hot flashes can cause the adhesive on your flange to soften and slide, leading to lifting.
- In hot tubs, the adhesive may start to melt after about 15 minutes in high temperatures.
- Some have tried using waterproof hypo-allergenic security strips, which help but can irritate the skin and need to be changed more frequently than at home.
- If you're planning a trip, like snorkeling in Hawaii, you might need to change your appliance daily, so it's good to find products that work best for you.
Here are some product recommendations and strategies:
1. Cymed pouches are recommended for salt-water and surf conditions, as they are known to stay on well in the ocean.
2. Sure Seal Rings create a waterproof yet breathable barrier over any wafer, helping to keep water out and reduce sweat rash. They are latex-free, and you can request samples.
3. Dansac "patch" pouches have been reported to stay secure for nearly an hour of active pool play.
4. Coloplast SenSura one-piece systems adhere well in tropical resort pools. For added security, you can use Securplast half-moon tapes.
5. In the USA, HydroFrame Flexible Hydrocolloid Strips can reinforce the flange perimeter without adding bulk.
6. Salts (UK) pouches are known to tolerate high poolside heat without lifting.
General strategies to consider:
- Order samples of several brands and test them at home before your trip.
- Apply any supplementary tape or Sure Seal immediately after fitting a fresh wafer.
- If you have a colostomy and irrigate, consider using a stoma cap instead of a full pouch while swimming to minimize surface area.
- Keep swimming; many have found success with the right combination of pouch and edge-seals, allowing them to enjoy the water without worry.
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