The topic at hand is about preparing for a long-haul flight, specifically a 14-hour journey from the U.S. to Australia, while managing a colostomy. The person is concerned about potential issues such as bloating, dehydration, and indigestion, which they experienced before having a colostomy, and is seeking advice on how to handle these challenges during the flight. They are also considering the possibility of needing a urostomy in the future and are looking for insights on managing both.
Here are some helpful tips and advice for flying long distances with a colostomy:
1. Supplies & Luggage
- Pack at least two full pouch changes, wet wipes, disposal bags, a small odor-control spray, and a change of clothes in your carry-on.
- Distribute your supplies between checked and carry-on luggage to prevent issues if bags are lost. Be aware that extreme temperatures in the cargo hold can affect the wear time of your ostomy wafer.
- When going through TSA, inform them you have an ostomy. You may need to do a brief self-pat-down and hand swab. Mini scissors for trimming flanges are usually allowed after inspection.
2. Lavatory Use
- Airplane lavatories are small, so have everything pre-cut and within reach. Some travelers line the toilet bowl rim with tissue due to the low-water vacuum flush.
- Consider bringing an empty 10-ounce plastic bottle to add rinse water if needed.
- If there's turbulence, kneeling on the closed lid or bracing on the sink can help. Only change your appliance if absolutely necessary, and double-bag used items until you can dispose of them properly.
3. Pouch Management in the Air
- Expect some ballooning during take-off and pressure changes. Empty your pouch just before boarding and avoid carbonated drinks and gas-producing foods.
- Those who irrigate report they can comfortably go 24-36 hours without output.
- Accessories like ostomy leak guards and stoma guards can provide extra security against seat-belt pressure and leaks.
4. Hydration & Diet (Before, During, After Flight)
- The cabin air is dry, so sip water constantly. Some travelers use low-sugar electrolyte mixes like LMNT, Hydralite, or Liquid IV.
- For 1-2 days before and after the flight, eat light, low-fat, low-sugar, low-fiber, non-gassy meals. Avoid airline food, red meat, and carbonated beverages.
- Safe food options include well-cooked starches (pasta, bread, fries), eggs, burgers, and soups.
- To maintain regularity, some add a tablespoon of milled flaxseed and 3-4 prunes to their meals.
5. Movement & Scheduling
- Book an aisle seat to make it easier to get up and move around. Walking the aisle and airports can help stimulate bowel activity and reduce constipation.
- If you're traveling across time zones or to a different climate/elevation, schedule 1-2 extra days upon arrival to rehydrate and acclimate before engaging in strenuous activities.
- Consider later-day departures to allow more time in the morning for pre-flight hydration.
6. General Reassurance
- Many travelers with colostomies, ileostomies, and urostomies report having trouble-free flights lasting 11-36 hours.
- Key points to remember: know which foods affect your output, stay hydrated, carry enough supplies, and relax. Long-haul flying with an ostomy is generally manageable.
See full discusison