Topic Explanation

The forum discussion revolves around a user's experience returning home from a 20-day trip to South Florida and the southern Caribbean. The user has a sigmoid colostomy with a mild parastomal hernia and uses a Hollister 2-piece system with a Coloplast Brava barrier ring, supported by a Nu Hope Corp. belt. The user shares experiences with TSA and ship security, dietary changes during the trip, and a minor incident involving dropping a cell phone on the stoma. The user also discusses the importance of having travel insurance, particularly for medical evacuation, and recounts an unpleasant experience with a disruptive child on the flight home.

Advice and Insights

- Travel Insurance:
- Consider purchasing a travel insurance policy that includes medical evacuation by private jet/helicopter for peace of mind. Research different companies and policies to find the best fit.
- If traveling frequently, look into a yearly policy rate rather than a per-trip policy rate.

- Ostomy Care While Traveling:
- Wearing a support belt consistently, except when showering or changing the wafer, can help manage a colostomy with a parastomal hernia.
- Drying the bag and wafer with toilet paper after showers can prevent adhesion problems, even in high humidity and heat.

- Handling Security Checks:
- Be prepared for potential misunderstandings with security personnel regarding ostomy equipment. Clear communication can help mitigate issues.

- Dietary Adjustments:
- Traveling may lead to dietary changes, such as increased food intake and trying foods usually avoided. Monitor how these changes affect your stoma and overall health.

- Incident Management:
- Maintain situational awareness to avoid accidents, such as dropping objects on the stoma. Be cautious with large or heavy items.

- Health Monitoring:
- If experiencing issues like rectal stump bleeding, consult with a healthcare provider for potential non-surgical solutions.

- Dealing with Disruptive Situations:
- In situations with disruptive passengers, such as a screaming child, patience and composure are essential. Flight attendants may not always intervene effectively.