What is Leakage
Leakage from your stoma appliance may occur for various reasons and may result in stoma output seeping under your baseplate or in some cases output leaking on to your clothing or bedding. Whilst leakages can occur occasionally, perhaps because of changes in your routine or diet, it isn’t something you should have to deal with on a regular basis. If leaks are happening frequently and are causing you anxiety or preventing you from making social plans with family and friends, have a chat with your stoma nurse who can help you find a solution. Most leakages can be controlled with a few adjustments or product changes. There are many new products available which have been designed to solve leakage problems and there will be a product or combination of products which will be right for you.
Why does leakage happen?
Poorly fitting appliance
If your ostomy appliance does not fit properly, it can cause leakage and skin irritation. The appliance needs to fit snuggly around your stoma. Your stoma may change size or shape over time particularly in the weeks following surgery which will mean your pouch will need adjustments. If you feel your pouch isn’t being cut to the correct size, you can remeasure it. If you need help with this, you should contact your stoma nurse who will be able to advise you.
The size and shape of your stoma needs to be considered when selecting the system for you. If you have a flat or retracted stoma you may have been prescribed a convex bag or a seal. A convex design will encourage your stoma to protrude into the pouch and allow the output to move into the pouch.
A seal will mould around your stoma and protect your skin. The Ostoform seal with Flowassist is a new seal which combines the mouldable skin protection and a directional flow component which helps to guide output into your pouch. This may be particularly useful if you have a highly fluidic output. Ostoform and other seals can be used in combination with both flat and convex pouch systems.
Sore Skin around your stoma
If the skin around your stoma is sore it may be red and inflamed, dry and itchy or moist due to breakdown of your skin’s natural barrier. All these conditions make it more difficult for your appliance to adhere properly to the skin. Unfortunately, this can lead to leakage which is then likely to cause more skin soreness and if left untreated a vicious cycle can develop resulting in problematic peristomal skin conditions.
You can break this cycle using suitable stoma accessory products. A barrier product such as StoCare Protect which can be used as a barrier film spray or a barrier wipe gives a layer of protection on the skin. This acts like a second skin, preventing stoma output and moisture sitting on the surface of your skin and causing damage. Additionally, barrier products enhance the adhesion of the stoma appliance and help to minimise leakage. You will need to be gentle when removing your stoma appliances especially when your skin is sore. An adhesive remover such as StoCare Remove is designed to ease discomfort and prevent skin damage when removing the pouch from the skin.
Diet
Changes in your diet might contribute to leakage. Certain foods could cause looser or increased output. If this becomes frequent, keeping a food diary can help identify trigger foods. Thicker output might also cause pancaking. If changes persist for more than a few days, it’s crucial to contact your stoma nurse.
Exercising
Leakage during exercise might result from increased sweat, twisting, bending, or movement of your abdomen. Emptying your pouch before exercising is advisable. Consider wearing clothing that fits snugly to hold the pouch closer to your body. You can also purchase support garments which may help to keep your pouch in position.
Body Shape Changes
Changes in body shape, including abdominal creases, may require a different pouch type. Accessories like paste or the Ostoform seal with Flowassist can help manage creases.
Pancaking
Pancaking occurs when pouch layers stick together, creating a vacuum that hinders output movement. Blowing air into the pouch before application or using tissue paper inside can prevent this. Some find adding a drop of oil inside aids in lubrication. If issues persist, contact your stoma nurse for support and advice.
Please don’t suffer in silence. Regular leaks and worry about leaks should not control your daily life. For help and support, reach out to your local stoma nurse.
You can contact us to speak about the accessories mentioned in this blog or order samples on the sample page.
