Take control of your stoma care routine
Managing your stoma can be challenging at times.
But don’t worry! We’ve got the simple fixes you need to help you take charge and get back on track.
How to (carefully) apply and change your ostomy appliance
We probably don’t need to tell you that the area around your stoma needs to be well cared for. So, be as gentle as you can when applying and removing your adhesive baseplate and stoma pouch, plus when you’re cleaning the skin around it. You only need to use water and a dry wipe to clean the skin – avoid any tissues or cotton wool and pat the area dry, don’t rub it!
It also helps to peel the baseplate off slowly after using your adhesive remover spray or wipes, using one hand to hold the skin tightly. This tactic means you’re less likely to cause trauma to your skin.
Handling stoma leaks
Leaks are a common part of living with a stoma – especially in the early days as you get the hang of your stoma care routine. While they can be awkward and frustrating, they’re not something you should simply put up with. With the right adjustments, you can minimise leaks and feel confident in your routine. The good news is there are plenty of stoma leak solutions that will help you fix the situation quickly.
How to deflate stoma ballooning and pancaking
Ballooning can happen when wind or gas builds up in your stoma pouch. This can make your stoma pouch bulge and appear less discreet. On the opposite side pancaking happens when your output sticks around your stoma causing a vacuum effect. Annoyingly, both can lead to leaks and odour.
The truth is ballooning and pancaking are common – but there is advice that can help. Using a drainable or 2-piece pouch can allow you to release air or introduce air into the pouch without having to remove the baseplate. If you experience pancaking, you can use the stickers that come in your box of stoma pouches to cover the filter; just remember to keep an eye on the pouch so that it doesn’t inflate too much! In both cases, we recommend making sure you change your pouch as often as your stoma nurse recommends. Lastly, some adjustments in what and how you eat and drink can help to reduce the risk of pancaking and ballooning.
Dealing with sore skin around your stoma
Peristomal skin (that’s the skin around your stoma) can easily get irritated. So, be sure to watch out for skin that’s:
- Sore
- Red
- Dry
- Wet
- Broken
The main culprit? Leaks from your stoma pouch. But skin sensitivities, allergies, and existing skin conditions like psoriasis and eczema can all play a part in irritating your skin. When your skin’s irritated, it makes it harder for your stoma pouchto stay put, which can lead to more leaks, and – you guessed it – more irritation. Luckily, there are a few tried and tested products to help you break the cycle.
Optimising your wellbeing to speed up recovery
Sure, recovering from stoma surgery and living with a stoma might add a few extra hurdles to your day-to-day routine, but it shouldn’t stop you living your life. Getting a good night’s sleep, making time for your favourite activities, and staying active can give you a physical, mental, and emotional boost. They can also accelerate your recovery, too. If you need a helping hand, there’s also a host of stoma support products to help you rest, recover, and get active, so you can get back to feeling the best version of yourself, quicker.
Take control of your stoma care routine
We have a range of products that will help you live life as easily, happily and as fully as possible.
