This topic is about dealing with persistent leaks and pain from an ostomy bag, and finding a lasting seal to improve comfort and wear time. The person sharing their experience has tried various methods to address these issues but is still facing challenges. Here are some helpful insights and advice gathered from the discussion:
1. Skin-soothing and healing:
- Many recommend using Domeboro Rash Relief soaks. Dissolve the powder, apply for 15 minutes, and dilute if it stings.
- Consider using 3M Cavilon No-Sting spray, 3M Advanced Skin Protectant, or Marathon Skin Protectant before sealing.
- Use Hollister 7905 Karaya 5 powder or standard stoma powder on moist or irritated skin. You can also try "crusting" with powder and a barrier wipe if needed.
- Washing with Head & Shoulders shampoo and applying Butt Paste diaper cream can help calm broken skin before applying powder and the appliance.
2. Building a better seal:
- Cut and custom-mold barrier rings, like Hollister CeraAdapt or Adapt 7805, to fit the oval shape of the stoma. Twist half-rings into "cylinders" to fill crevices under the stoma, then lay the wafer on top.
- Place the primary ring directly on the stoma for a snug fit, and add a second ring around the perimeter for backup.
- Ensure the wafer opening is no more than 1 mm larger than the stoma base.
- Fill any voids beneath the stoma with stoma paste, using a syringe for precise application.
- Consider using a light or full convexity wafer, as many have found leaks stopped after switching to a convex wafer plus a ring. You might want to try the Coloplast SenSura Mio Convex Flip and request free samples.
- Always warm the wafer and rings with a hair-dryer or body heat before application and press firmly for several minutes.
3. Supply and insurance tips:
- A physician can prescribe 30 pouches per month, and keeping a leak diary with photos can strengthen the request.
- If the insurer still limits quantities, compare retail prices and consider paying out-of-pocket for extra stock.
4. Accessory options and brands mentioned:
- Hollister: Hollihesive skin-barrier sheets, Adapt 7805 barrier ring, Karaya 5 powder.
- Coloplast: General sheets, SenSura Mio Convex Flip appliance.
- 3M: Tegaderm film, Cavilon No-Sting spray, Advanced Skin Protectant.
- Eakin seal, CeraAdapt ring, Marathon Skin Protectant (Medline).
- Many people wear an ostomy belt 24/7 to reinforce the seal.
5. General encouragement:
- Experiment methodically, as everyone's anatomy is different.
- Aim for a 3–4 day wear time; some have achieved 7–14 days after adopting convexity, a ring, and skin protectant.
- The community emphasizes persistence and learning from fellow ostomates, alongside advice from clinical staff.
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