This topic is about managing unexpected odors while driving a school bus with an ileostomy. The bus driver, who has had an ileostomy for eight years, sometimes notices a strong stool odor while on duty. Students have commented on the smell, and the driver is concerned it might be coming from her pouch. She is looking for ways to eliminate the problem and jokingly wonders if stopping eating is the only solution.

Here are some helpful tips and insights:

1. A properly sealed appliance should not emit any odor. If you smell stool, it usually means there is a leak.
2. Confirm the source of the odor. It could be from students passing gas or bus exhaust, which can smell like rotten eggs, especially after catalytic converter work.
3. Empty the pouch before each route and use drainable bags with charcoal filters to vent gas without odor.
4. Use liquid or drop-in pouch deodorants to neutralize any escaping odor.
5. Check your system for leaks. Output under the flange, poorly cleaned surfaces, or insufficient drying before resealing can allow odor to seep out.
6. If you need to change the appliance every morning, it might not fit well. Try other brands or sizes and consider adding a barrier ring for an airtight seal.
7. Some recommend using a Coloplast Brava 6 × 6" Protective Sheet. Cut it to the stoma size, apply to clean, dry skin, keep the stoma dry with gauze, and warm the sheet with your hands for maximum adhesion. It is very sticky, so you'll need plenty of adhesive remover when changing it.
8. Consider dietary changes. Reduce high-sugar, highly processed carbs, and gas-producing foods. Try low-fiber options like ripe bananas, yogurt, chicken, and rice. Drinking peppermint tea can also help lessen odor and gas.
9. Be aware of hidden food intolerances, such as certain oils or spices, that can create foul-smelling gas.
10. "Burp" or briefly open the outlet (or use a vented/filtered bag) to release gas before it builds up pressure.
11. If the odor is only present on the bus, rule out environmental causes or student pranks before assuming it is the pouch.