This topic is about navigating amusement parks as a new ostomate, particularly focusing on the safety and comfort of enjoying rides with a colostomy. Here are some helpful tips and insights shared by others who have been in similar situations:
1. Many ostomates have enjoyed full days at major amusement parks, including roller coasters and thrill rides, without experiencing leaks or wafer failures.
2. Before your trip, consider these preparations:
- Apply a fresh wafer the day before your visit.
- Bring a small pack with extra pouches, wafers, clips, wipes, and other essentials.
3. During your day at the park, manage your pouch by:
- Keeping it less than half full and emptying it before joining long lines.
- Limiting food intake, avoiding carbonated drinks, and possibly taking an anti-gas supplement.
- Using closed-end pouches with charcoal filters to help control odor and ballooning.
4. For added security, reinforce the edges of your wafer with Mefix tape to prevent lifting or blow-outs, especially on high-intensity rides or water rides.
5. If you are small or thin, be cautious with lap bars on rides. Ensure they do not press directly on your stoma, as this could cause discomfort or injury.
6. In hot environments or on water rides, using a fresh wafer and tape reinforcement can help prevent issues related to heat and moisture.
7. Ileostomies might be more prone to leakage than colostomies, so ensure the bag outlet is clipped securely.
8. If you need a restroom break while in line, you can leave the queue and have a companion save your spot.
9. There was a question about what Mefix tape is, but it hasn't been answered yet in the discussion.
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