The topic at hand is about dealing with nighttime ostomy bag leaks, which can be quite frustrating and disruptive. If you're experiencing frequent leaks and are looking for reliable solutions, here are some practical tips and insights shared by others who have faced similar challenges:
1. Consider switching to a convex or concave appliance that better fits the shape of your stoma and skin contours.
- A concave wafer fitted by an ostomy nurse has been effective for some in stopping leaks.
- Soft convex options like Pelican Soft Convex, Sensura Mio Soft Convex, or Convatec moldable convex wafers can help, especially if your stoma is low or retracted.
- If your output is watery, try cutting the wafer hole slightly larger, but if your skin becomes red, go back to a snug fit.
2. Reinforce or customize the seal for added security.
- Use flange or extender strips at the top and bottom of the appliance.
- Placing Eakin Cohesive Seals or Salts Secuplast Washer/Hollister Cera Washer beneath the wafer can help, and adding a medicated sheet under the flange may clear rashes and stop leaks.
- Applying a skin-barrier wipe before fitting can protect irritated skin.
3. Try a different pouch system that others have found to be "leak-proof."
- The Salts (UK) XND1352 pouch, when used with a Salts Secuplast or Hollister Cera washer, has kept some users leak-free for years.
4. Use support accessories to maintain even pressure.
- An ostomy belt, whether single or double, can help; you can adjust the tension as needed.
- A custom DIY baseplate might work: use a credit-card-shaped plate with a rubber flange, held by double elastic belts, and attach the flange with double-sided carpet tape. A beveled ring cut from a Dansac placemat can serve as a washer.
5. Improve pouch wear time and comfort.
- Spraying a few drops of baby oil inside the pouch can help keep the output moving.
- Avoid soap residue, hot baths, and hot tubs, as they can weaken wafer adhesion; opt for showers and pat your skin dry.
- Use Scanpoor tape around the wafer for extra hold.
- After applying a moldable wafer, dust stoma powder into any remaining gaps to absorb moisture.
6. Manage nighttime effectively.
- Consider emptying the pouch once or twice during the night and try sleeping on your back to prevent output from pooling on one side.
- If your output is very liquid, avoid using urinary-style drainage bags, as they might back up with stool.
These suggestions come from various experiences and might help you find a solution that works for you.
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