This topic is about dealing with unexpected leaks from an ostomy system, especially during hot weather. The person experiencing this issue is looking for practical solutions to manage these leaks, which have become a new and frustrating problem. Here are some helpful tips and advice shared by others who have faced similar challenges:
1. Involve a stoma nurse:
- Schedule an in-person review to check the stoma size, shape, and how well the appliance fits.
- If local help is hard to find, call the clinical support lines of major manufacturers like Hollister, Coloplast, or Convatec to speak with their nurses.
2. Re-measure and refit:
- Stoma sizes can change, so adjust your cutting template as needed. Hollister offers oval templates online.
- If output is causing issues with the wafer (known as pancaking), try adding lubricating drops inside the pouch and cover the filter.
3. Skin preparation basics:
- Avoid using oils or oily soaps. Many find that plain water or a mild soap like Ivory works best, followed by a thorough rinse.
- Make sure the skin around the stoma is completely dry. You can sit in front of a small fan or use a hair-dryer on a cool setting.
- Some nurses recommend not using barrier wipes on healthy skin, but if the skin is irritated, a barrier wipe “crusting” might help.
4. Heat-related tips:
- Hold the new wafer in place with a warm hand for two minutes to help the adhesive bond. Warming the wafer with a hair-dryer can also be effective.
- Some users find that applying roll-on deodorant around (but not on) the stoma helps achieve longer wear time in hot weather.
5. Adhesive enhancers and accessories:
- Barrier rings can be stretched, cut, and placed directly around the stoma for a better seal.
- Stoma paste around the cut-out can provide an extra seal, but only use it if your skin tolerates it.
- Torbot Bonding Cement can be applied to the wafer and removed later with adhesive remover.
- Adhesive extenders or tape strips can reinforce the edges of the wafer, which is helpful if the edges tend to peel.
6. Product suggestions to sample:
- Hollister Premier Convex pouches, as some users report no leaks since switching.
- Hollister Adapt Stoma Powder and Adapt Barrier Cream.
- Torbot Bonding Cement, which is applied with a brush.
7. Routine and technique reminders:
- Organize all your supplies before starting, take your time, and double-check tail closures.
- Be careful with fingernails, as nicks in the wafer can lead to early failure.
- Change the pouch first thing in the morning when the stoma is quieter.
- If your skin tolerates it, clean around (not on) the stoma with alcohol, then fan-dry.
8. Output control:
- High output can undermine any seal. Consider using Imodium (loperamide) or eating thickening foods like bananas, but check with your clinician first.
These tips aim to help manage leaks and improve the overall experience with an ostomy system, especially during challenging weather conditions.
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