Hints and tips for you
When changing your pouch
Here's a simple device that will aid you while you change your bag and at the same time ensure your clothes are kept free from your stoma. Here's how;
• Find two plastic pegs (check if they have a small hole at the top) and some cord.
• Thread the cord through the hole in each peg and secure the pegs with a knot, the cord should be long enough to hang round your neck but not too long.
• Then, place the device around the back of your neck so that each peg hangs freely in front of you.
• Next secure each peg to the material of your blouse or shirt to hold your clothing away from your stoma - you may need to experiment but you will soon get the hang of it!
Stand upright in front of a mirror while applying your clean pouch, this will help to eliminate folds and creases and ensure a good seal on flattened skin.
Again, stand in front of the mirror when measuring your stoma. Use the backing paper of the flange as a pattern.
Try putting your new clean flange/pouch in a warm place e.g. on top of radiator or under your arm for a few minutes to warm and therefore aid adhesion.
A stoma can change shape and size, especially in the first few months, so check weekly for any changes. Many stomas are not round. Make sure that the flange fits as snugly as possible. If the hole is too big this can lead to sore skin. If it is too small the adhesive won’t stick to the stoma which will allow motion to collect behind the flange and cause leaks.
Gentlemen who have a problem with being hairy around the abdomen could try using a 'Ladyshave'. It gives a really smooth shave, is much safer than an ordinary razor and less clumsy than an electric shaver. To protect the stoma cover it with the lid of an aerosol can.
When showering with a colostomy bag still on, remember to cover the filter so it doesn’t get wet and stop working. If you have problems drying the outside of the bag try using a hairdryer, but switch it to the lowest setting so there is no risk of melting the plastic.
Before using a new type of pouch always patch test it on a small area - the other side of your tummy is best - in case of a reaction to the adhesive.
Changing your pouch away from home
Don’t forget your spare kit (pouch, disposal bags, wipes, scissors etc.) when you go out and remember to renew it on a regular basis.
Many colostomates find it easier to change their pouch in a disabled toilet where there is a wash basin and a bin for disposal on hand. You can apply for a radar key which opens locked disabled toilets all around the UK.
(See Specialist services within Find information)
Take a very small 'Body Shop' style spray bottle filled with water on days out when you know you have to use public conveniences and there is no running water. Bacterial hand wash that does not require water is also useful. Some stoma appliance companies produce sachets of cleansing gel which are available on prescription.
Try flushing the toilet before you use it just to make sure that it is actually working. There is nothing worse than having to empty your pouch contents and then finding out it doesn’t flush at all!
Clothing
You will usually be able to wear the same clothes as you did before surgery.
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Ladies who find wearing normal tights uncomfortable could try maternity ones. 'Hold up' stockings are another option or 'knee highs' if you are wearing a long skirt.
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Wearing skimpy briefs which finish below the stoma or high-waisted pants that rest above the pouch will prevent the waistband pressing on the stoma which may affect its functioning or lead to leakage.
• Several companies make specialist underwear with an inside pocket which supports the stoma bag and keeps it away from the skin. (See Factsheets in Find information)
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If the stoma is on the waistline, gentlemen may find using an elasticated belt or braces preferable to wearing a rigid belt.
• High-waisted trousers may be more comfortable. (See Factsheets in Find information)
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Patterned swimwear will camouflage any bulges. (See Factsheets in Find information)
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Stoma bag covers, which will help prevent your bag sticking to your skin in the heat, are available from some manufacturers. (See Factsheets in Find information)
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Always wear a support belt when lifting heavy objects. Consult your stoma care nurse for advice on the support garment which is most suitable for you.
Odour
Most stoma appliances have a filter which incorporates a deodoriser, so odour shouldn’t be a problem. However, if you are not happy with the filter on the bag you are currently using there are many more you could try. Several manufacturers and suppliers of stoma care appliances produce drops or granules designed to neutralize any odour. These can be introduced into a clean bag before you put it on.
Odour could mean leakage or the filter may have come into contact with the contents of the bag making the deodoriser ineffective. If so change your appliance straight away or as soon as possible.
Some ostomates find that drinking tomato juice or buttermilk or eating natural yoghurt or parsley helps to control odour. Others take peppermint capsules.
Wind
Drinking peppermint tea or peppermint oil in hot water can help to reduce wind. Eating fennel or drinking fennel tea is another remedy.
Pancaking
This is when the output collects around the stoma and can squeeze between the flange and the skin instead of going into your bag. One of the reasons this happens is because there isn’t enough air in the bag and so the output doesn’t take a downwards turn.
If this happens try lubricating your bags with baby oil or one of the many products available from the various supply companies. Squirt a little oil or gel into your bag and give it a good rub around before you stick it on. Take care not to get any on the adhesive as this can reduce the effectiveness of the seal. Covering the filter with one of the sticky patches that are supplied in each box of stoma bags will prevent a vacuum forming inside the bag.
Leakage
Ask your stoma nurse about rings and washers which can help to give a really good seal around the stoma. Remember: Some medications will change the colour and/or odour of your output.
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Antibiotics may cause diarrhoea.
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Painkillers may cause constipation.
If this is causing problems you could ask your doctor or pharmacist if there is a different medication without these side effects. (consult your stoma nurse about using a drainable bag)
Travel and Holidays
• Pack twice as many appliances as you would normally use.
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Always take the details of your stoma products and contact details of your supplier, in case you need to obtain further supplies.
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If possible take your supplies in hand luggage when flying. If not, spread them across several suitcases in case of loss.
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On aeroplanes, scissors are not allowed in hand luggage, so prepare any bags you may need during the flight before you leave.
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Drainable bags are more convenient when travelling, and essential if you get struck down with diarrhoea. To make them easier to empty introduce a few drops of gel or baby oil before fitting.
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Do not leave your supplies in the car in hot weather as the adhesive may melt.
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Only drink bottled water when visiting countries where the water supply is suspect.
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In hot and humid weather you may find that perspiration causes the flange to lose its adhesion. Check regularly throughout the day and change your bag if there is a problem.
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When swimming remember to put the small adhesive patch, supplied with your bags, over the vent-hole otherwise the filter will become damp and stop working.
Irrigation
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For best results try to irrigate at regular intervals.
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Water should be neither too hot nor too cold.
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Do not use softened water for irrigating.
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Irrigation works best if you are relaxed. If you do not have much time or are uptight about anything, the water is often reluctant to go in.
Irrigators abroad
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If the water is fit to drink it is suitable for irrigation.
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If you find when you go to a hot country that your irrigation doesn’t work as well as at home, it could be because you are becoming dehydrated, so keep a water bottle with you and aim to drink the recommended two litres a day. If you don’t, your colon will try to make up for the deficiency, in the same way that a camel economises on water.
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Take a coat hanger in your suitcase it is ideal for hooking over a shower rail or onto window frames to hang up your water bag.