Living with an ostomy isn't something most of us planned for. Whether you're new to the ostomy world or have been navigating this journey for years, there's always something new to learn. Today, I want to share with you some lesser-known ostomy care secrets. Let's dive into these life-enhancing tips together.
1. Embracing Technology for Enhanced Ostomy Management
After surgery, many people thinks it is all about manual care and keeping track of everything in a notebook. But it is not.
Advanced Ostomy Products
There's a whole world of advanced ostomy products out there that don't always make it into the standard care packages. There's a whole world of advanced ostomy products out there, including pouches designed with materials that efficiently manage output and provide a comfortable wearing experience. There are also ostomy products to prevent leakage, to eliminate bad odors and even undergarments made just for you. Don't hesitate to navigate online and find products or ostomy care techniques to improve your quality of life.
Apps and Online Resources
And then there are apps! Yes, there are mobile applications designed just for us ostomates. They help track your diet, output, and even remind you when it's time to change your pouch. Here is a list of app's by some top manufacturers.
- Convatec: My Ostomy Journey App
- Coloplast: MyOstomy
2. The Power of Proper Skin Care Routine
Ostomates can also sometimes learn the hard way that not all skin care products can be effective for them. Finding the proper ostomy products for your skin is very important.
Skin Care Is Paramount
Maintaining the health of the skin around your stoma is essential. Be ready to explore a range of products specifically designed for ostomy care to discover what truly works best. While it is tempting to look towards general skin care solutions, be assured that products specifically formulated for ostomy care offer unparalleled benefits. These specialized skin barrier/remover wipes or sprays, cleansers or creams are tailored to meet the unique needs of ostomates, providing the gentle yet effective care that sensitive stoma skin requires. Another thing our clientele have been telling us for years is that the faster you address a skin care issue, the lower the risks in developing skin redness or irritation or any other issue affecting the wear time of your ostomy device.
3. Diet and Nutrition: Beyond the Basics
Diet advice for ostomates often feels generic. However, the devil is in the details.
Personalized Diet Planning
It's crucial to listen to your body and pay attention to how different foods affect your ostomy output. A good idea is to keep a food diary, and the insights could be eye-opening. Some foods that you can assumed are 'safe' for your ostomy can actually cause more issues than you can realize. By documenting what your eating habits and how it influences your stoma function, you can gain a deeper understanding of your body's unique reactions to various foods. This awareness empowers you to make more informed dietary choices and better manage your ostomy care. Keeping a food diary can be a valuable tool in navigating the complexities of living with an ostomy and finding the diet that works best for you.
Secret Foods That Work Wonders
For instance, one of our client recently told us she is now drinking peppermint tea and adding a dash of turmeric in her meals. It has been magical for reducing gas and bloating. These are not your usual dietary recommendations, but they've worked wonders for that person.
Disclaimer: The diet advice offered here is for informational purposes only. Always consult with a healthcare professional before making significant dietary changes
4. Active Living and Ostomy: Finding Your Rhythm
"Can I still be active?" This is one of the first questions we get asked at Ostomy Depot. Here's some tips from a few of our customers :
Exercise Without Fear (Arthur S., Kelowna)
I started with gentle yoga and gradually moved to hiking. The key is to find ostomy-friendly exercise gear. There are belts and wraps designed to keep everything secure while you move. Don't let your ostomy stop you from staying active; adapt and adjust.
Innovative Products for Active Ostomates (Deborah M., Medicine Hat)
Speaking of gear, there are incredible innovations out there. I discovered ostomy belts that provide fantastic support and security for everyday activities. These products might not be included in your typical ostomy care package, but they're definitely worth exploring for added comfort and confidence.
5. Building a Supportive Community
Sometimes, the best secrets come from those who are walking the same path as you.
The Importance of Peer Support
I cannot stress enough how valuable it is to connect with other ostomates. You can learn more practical tips from your ostomy community than any brochure or guide. Whether it's finding the best products or navigating social situations, the collective wisdom is unparalleled. However, it is very important to understand every ostomate, skin, abdomen is different. When discussing with your ostomy community, always keep in mind that people are relating to their own situation and keep what's good or not for your own benefit.
Conclusion
Living with an ostomy comes with its set of challenges, but also a unique opportunity to rediscover your strength and resilience. The secrets we've shared today are just the tip of the iceberg. There's a whole world of tips, tricks, and life hacks waiting to be discovered. Remember, every ostomate's journey is unique, and what works for one person might not work for another. It's all about finding what works best for you.
Now, I'd love to hear from you. What are some ostomy care secrets that you've discovered? Share your tips and experiences in the comments below. Let's keep the conversation going and support each other in our ostomy journeys.
