Sudden change in stoma

[fastgal20]

I have had my current stoma on my left lower abdomen for several years. Sunday, I had a "blow out", which happens occasionally, but this time, it has happened 6 more times in 2 days. In trying to figure out the problem, the hole from my stoma, which used to be in the middle, is now on the bottom. The waste is coming out and going underneath the flange. I've tried everything and I don't know what to do--I can't even go to work with this situation...any suggestions? Thanks!

 

[sammies]

Hmmm. . . Sounds like it is time to call or see a WOCN.

Something might be going on further in that has caused the intestine to retract? Do you think the blowouts are result of a partial blockage building up and releasing? Any nausea or vomiting? Anything up with abdominal wall?

Good luck and I hope you call a WOCN soon. Sending good vibes!

 

[fastgal20]

Thanks so much--I did call yesterday--I have not had any nausea or vomiting. They said sometimes these things happen. They recommended convex wafers for now--but I may have to see a surgeon to have it fixed. Keeping my fingers crossed this doesn't happen!!!

 

[DJW]

Hi. I have moved to a convex wafer. I use an ostomy belt and Eakin seals. I love Eakin seals. I rarely get leaks anymore.

 

[fastgal20]

Thanks Dave--Convatec is sending me some samples to try--they think they will work for my situation--it is just a little shaky for me since I've used the same things for years with no issues. Also, I will check out the Eakin seals---

 

[DJW]

I use convatec and have been very pleased.

 

[fastgal20]

Thank you DJW!

 

[2thFairy]

Good luck with your new gear!

 

[Ginger is her name]

Have you tried stoma paste? So long as I use it and have the hole properly sized, I don't get leaks or blowouts.

 

[annawato]

I found I got blowouts when I didn't have the hole in the wafer cut large enough. Even though the hole was snug around the stoma, peristalis and/or a large bit of poop caused by fibre binding together would push the wafer up and so leak under. I now have about a millimetre (or less) wriggle room around my stoma and use paste to protect the skin. If your stoma has suddenly changed size through prolapsing a bit, which it sounds like it may have since the opening has moved places, you may need to cut a bit larger. My stoma sometimes prolapses a bit (and my surgeon said it wasn't a problem if it wasn't too much) and I very gently push it back in a bit. You may find if you do this it will move the opening back to where it was. All conjecture of course but maybe this will help?