{"id":1192,"date":"2025-03-25T12:01:19","date_gmt":"2025-03-25T12:01:19","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.eakinostomy.com\/?page_id=1192"},"modified":"2025-07-09T11:22:15","modified_gmt":"2025-07-09T11:22:15","slug":"managing-your-stoma","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.eakinostomy.com\/GB\/stoma-support-advice\/managing-your-stoma\/","title":{"rendered":"Managing your stoma"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Take control of your stoma care routine<\/h1>\n\n\n\n

Managing your stoma can be challenging at times.
But don\u2019t worry! We\u2019ve got the simple fixes you need to help you take charge and get back on track.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n\n\n

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How to (carefully) apply and change your ostomy appliance<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We probably don\u2019t 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 bag, plus when you\u2019re cleaning the skin around it. You only need to use water and a dry wipe to clean the skin \u2013 avoid any tissues or cotton wool and pat the area dry, don\u2019t rub it! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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\u2019re less likely to cause trauma to your skin.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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View our range of stoma bags<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n
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Handling stoma leaks<\/mark><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

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\u2019re 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Solutions for leaks<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n
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How to deflate stoma ballooning and pancaking<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ballooning can happen when wind or gas builds up in your stoma bag. This can make your stoma bag 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 \u2013 but there is advice that can help. Using a drainable <\/strong><\/a>or 2-piece bag<\/strong><\/a> can allow you to release air or introduce air into the bag without having to remove the baseplate. If you experience pancaking, you can use the stickers that come in your box of stoma bags to cover the filter; just remember to keep an eye on the bag so that it doesn\u2019t inflate too much! In both cases, we recommend making sure you change your bag 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.<\/p>\n\n\n

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Dealing with sore skin around your stoma<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Peristomal skin (that\u2019s the skin around your stoma) can easily get irritated. So, be sure to watch out for skin that\u2019s:<\/p>\n\n\n\n