Summer may cause issues with the wear-time of a pouching system. Here are some hints to help keep your pouching system intact during this warm, hot, and/or humid season.
- Apply aluminum chloride hexahydrate antiperspirant to the skin prior to application of the skin barrier. Use this type of a product on intact skin only. Examples of this product: Drysol, Driclor.
- Use a standard wear skin barrier that absorbs moisture better — Hollister uses the term Flexwear, Coloplast uses the term Sensura, ConvaTec calls it Stomahesive Skin Barriers and ConvaTec does say it works best with a solid output ostomy.
- If you call the manufacturer (Hollister, Coloplast, ConvaTec and others)–they will talk to you about your issues and needs. They will also send you samples, if you request them. A distributor company such as Edgepark, Preferred Home Care, Shield and others can also give direction to you and send samples. Check out our Resource Page for company contact information.
Remember to stay well hydrated during the warm months and anytime you exercise. For the ileostomate, keep your electrolyte levels in a good range-through periodic blood work monitoring, taking vitamin/mineral supplements after checking with your doctor, and eating/drinking foods high in your missing electrolyte/minerals.
Colorado River Ostomy Chapter 