This topic is about someone who has been experiencing sudden leaks with their ostomy wafer after significant weight loss. They have been using a Convatec Natura two-piece system, which used to last 4-5 days but now leaks within 12-16 hours. They are trying to figure out why this is happening and are looking for advice.
Here are some helpful suggestions:
1. Check your skin and stoma:
- Look for any skin irritation, as inflamed skin can prevent the wafer from sticking properly.
- Re-measure your stoma since weight loss can change its size or make it flush with the skin, which might require a smaller cut or a convex wafer.
- Examine your belly for any changes in contours or loose skin folds that might lift the barrier.
2. Improve skin preparation:
- Use oil-free, perfume-free soap like yellow Dial to wash the area.
- Make sure your skin is completely dry before applying the wafer; some people use a hair-dryer on a warm or cool setting.
- Consider using a liquid antacid like Mylanta on irritated skin or Witch Hazel to calm and dry the area.
- Apply a skin-prep wipe or spray and let it dry before sealing.
3. Strengthen the seal:
- Use an Eakin Cohesive Seal or similar product directly on the skin, as this can double the wear time.
- Warm the wafer with a hair-dryer before and after placing it on your body to activate the adhesive.
- Press firmly and try changing the wafer just before bedtime so it can set while you are still.
4. Consider alternative barriers and accessories:
- Try Convatec Durahesive convex wafers, which may adhere better.
- Coloplast’s newer flange is known for stronger glue and better molding to body contours; you can request samples.
- Use an ostomy belt to keep the flange stable, especially if you have loose skin folds.
- Reinforce the edges with tape like Hypaflex, 3M medical tape, foam tape, or adhesive strips.
- For extra hold, some people spray Hollister Adhesive Spray on the wafer perimeter after it dries.
5. Troubleshoot supplies and routine:
- Open a new box of wafers to see if the current one is defective.
- Request free samples of wafers, seals, tapes, or belts from suppliers like Convatec, Coloplast, or Hollister.
- Review your diet, as sudden increases in fiber or filler foods can cause thick output that leads to leaks.
6. Long-term options:
- If you have a descending or sigmoid colostomy, consider asking an ostomy nurse about irrigation, which can significantly reduce stool output during the day. Coloplast offers a complete irrigation kit.
These combined strategies, such as resizing the opening, using a convex or different wafer, adding an Eakin seal, warming the appliance, reinforcing with tape, and wearing an ostomy belt, are often mentioned as ways to restore longer wear time.
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