Questions

Hi everyone I have a few questions and I'd appreciate it if anyone can provide any answers. First of all I'm 17 years old and have an end ileostomy. I've already got quite comfortable with it. I also recently started school.

My first question is if anyone lives in Canada and what pharamacy/website do you use to buy supplies? I live in Toronto, North York area. My current supplier is Hollister.

I use a 2 piece system and have found recently that the phlange is coming off almost right after I put it on when I am changing it. What can cause this? I know that sometimes the phlange creases/folds over because I can never get it to stick smoothly. Is there any way to prevent this? Do you have to let the barrier spray dry as well? What foods have you found are best for thicker output?

I've also used Adapt Barrier Rings in the past but found that they can sometimes melt out of position and into the bag. Has this happened to anyone else as well?

I was also wondering what kind of daily routines everyone has? Anything is appreciated. I'd just like some personal opinions/tips and that would be great.

Thanks!

Hi, I have a colostomy, and don't have the dietary and consistency concerns that seem to affect those with ileostomies, but I am in Canada (Ottawa).

I am currently buying my supplies at Shoppers, the larger stores that have a Home Health department. I have also looked at Canmeddirect.ca, a mail order supplier with a pretty wide range of supplies. Their prices are about 8-10% cheaper than Shoppers, but you must make an order of $150 to get free delivery. I hesitated for quite a while to make such a large order, because my stoma changed size 3 or 4 times during the first 18 months, though it has been stable for about a year now. Also, it takes quite a while to figure out what products and which brands work best for you. Everyone is different, and it takes a lot of trial and error to get the right set-up.

I suggest you call the three main suppliers, Hollister, Convatec and Coloplast. They all have helpful staff, specialists in ostomy care, who will listen to your problems and can suggest solutions. They will send you samples of their products as well. I have tried several varieties of one and two piece appliances, as well as accessories such as barrier rings, adhesive wipes, lubricating deordorant, etc.

Coloplast: 866-293-6349
Convatec: 800-465-6302

You probably have the Hollister number if you got their starter pack from the hospital or your nurse.

I started out with the Adapt rings, and did not find they worked well for me, though I no longer remember what the problem was. The best of all the brands I tried was Eakin, I think Convatec distributes them; ask for samples. There is a regular and a slim, the slim worked better for me.

I use the Hollister two piece convex, and have not had a problem with the flange detaching from my skin, unless there is a leak. I take it yours are coming loose on their own? If that is the case, I don't have too much advice, except to be sure you skin is well-rinsed, no soap residue, and thoroughly dry before you apply the flange. Like cupcake, I use the hair dryer to ensure the skin is dry, and give it another blast after it's on.

I no longer use the Eakin Seal; I ran out and Shoppers was out of stock. My next two changes were the cleanest ever, so now, all I use is a Cavilon wipe, the flange and bag, and lubricating deodorant. I'm only using the deodorant because I bought a big bottle to help with pancaking, but it doesn't seem to help with either pancaking or odour (or maybe I have become blind to odour). The Cavilon is intended to protect the skin from the effects of applying and pulling off the adhesive on the flange. I find my skin gets pink if I forget it.

Hope this helps -- ask away if you have more questions!

Ann