This topic is about finding ways to prevent ostomy adhesive failures while playing golf in hot weather, particularly when temperatures soar above 100 °F (38 °C). The person sharing their experience lives in La Quinta, California, and enjoys golfing even in the heat. However, they encountered a problem when their ostomy pouch leaked during a round of golf due to heavy sweating. They are seeking advice on how to keep their ostomy appliance secure in such conditions. Here are some helpful suggestions:
1. Consider using a more breathable hernia belt. Options like Movi Brace or NU-Hope belts provide support around the stoma without covering the pouch opening, which helps sweat evaporate more easily.
2. Be cautious with extra tape. While adding more tape might seem like a good idea, it can actually worsen skin issues if output reaches the skin. It's important to focus on securing the seal rather than just the edges.
3. Try barrier-support products designed for moisture and movement. Coloplast Brava Elastic Tape, which comes in three-piece curved strips, or general barrier extender tapes can be helpful. Waterproof medical tape placed over the wafer’s tape border is another option.
4. Reinforce the center, not just the edges. Adding a second barrier ring or using a Convatec Stoma Wrap around the stoma opening can absorb moisture and improve adhesion.
5. Use wafers that absorb perspiration. Products like Convatec Durahesive, which have an absorbent formulation, can help manage sweat.
6. Explore NU-Hope’s foam flanges and hernia belts/girdles. These have strong adhesion and may perform better in extreme heat.
7. Consider lifestyle adjustments for desert golf:
- Tee off early when it's cooler.
- Delay solid food until midway through the round to reduce output volume.
- Stay hydrated with electrolyte drinks without increasing stool production. Plantains or dates can help thicken output if needed.
- Know where restrooms are and empty your pouch completely whenever possible.
- Wear dark clothing to camouflage any unexpected leaks and reduce stress.
8. Look into alternative gear. OstoTEEs offers garments that suspend the pouch away from the abdomen, which can help reduce heat build-up.
9. Always keep replacement supplies in your golf bag. If a leak starts, change immediately to prevent skin irritation and future adhesion problems.
10. Understand that playing in temperatures over 100 °F may still carry a higher risk of issues. Limiting play to cooler days or times is the simplest way to prevent problems.
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