This topic is about managing night-time leaks for someone who has recently had an ileostomy and is experiencing challenges with side-sleeping. Here are some helpful tips and insights to consider:
1. The stoma is located in a crease, which can cause leaks when sleeping on the side. Back-sleeping on an inclined bed helps but isn't restful.
2. Different equipment has been tried, including Hollister and Coloplast convex barriers and pouches, but leaks still occur.
3. The output is very liquid and acidic at night, requiring emptying every 2-3 hours. This liquid can dissolve the barrier and cause leaks.
4. Leaks are due to seepage under the barrier, not because the bag is overfilled. Skin distortion when lying on the side may contribute.
5. Nurses have advised against using paste, but Hollister "flex strips" around the convex ring are being considered.
6. The ostomy belt tends to loosen when lying down, so tightening it might help. Leaks are more frequent on the stoma side, but sleeping on the non-stoma side has shown some success.
7. There is persistent irritation on the skin where leaks occur, and advice from a nurse is awaited.
8. Disposable pads are used to protect bedding, and a quick-change routine is in place for when leaks happen.
Advice and insights to help manage the situation:
- Identify where the leak starts. Observe how the abdomen changes when lying down to understand how the crease deepens.
- Consider using paste to fill creases, despite previous advice. Hollister Adapt flexible strips or Eakin seals can help build up dips.
- Ensure the skin is dry before applying the appliance. Use a cool hair-dryer and press the wafer with warmth for at least 5 minutes to secure the adhesive.
- Re-tighten the belt after settling into a sleep position, as belts can slacken when reclining.
- Experiment with different sleeping positions to reduce pooling, such as semi-prone on the stomach, non-stoma side sleeping, or a hybrid back/side position.
- To slow or thicken the ileostomy output at night, consider using Cholestyramine powder or eating marshmallows before bed.
- Check the stoma length; it should protrude about 1 inch. If it's too flush, discuss options with a surgeon or try directional spout shields.
- Try different products, like Coloplast "Click" 2-piece systems with Brava Paste or Eakin Cohesive seals for better results.
- Protect irritated skin with products like Marathon skin protectant or DermaRite StingFree Liquid Skin Prep & Shield.
- Use disposable under-pads on the bed during the learning phase, and remember that stoma size can change, so recut templates frequently.
- Be open to trying different pouch brands and styles, as what works during the day might not work at night. With time and adjustments, many people find they can return to their preferred sleep positions.
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