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Going from Stupid Questions to Nervous Nelly

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Posted 1/16/2009 7:56 PM (GMT 0)
I am probably restating this, but this is of major (I mean big ole can't get my mind off it) concern.

I am reading where people here are having leakage problems - and if I am going to be leaking - what is the difference between having an accident in a diaper where I can clean up and most people wont know since I am wearing a diaper - vs. in front with an image of waste streaming all over myself and my bed and clothing.

I recognize this is fear speaking - but I need to know will this be my reality too?

sorry for the downer question,

worrying dreadfully bob 

Posted 1/16/2009 8:03 PM (GMT 0)
Bob,

You will learn how to manage the ostomy with the help of the ostomy nurse. Sure, you will encounter problems, leaks, skin issues, appliance fit issues, etc. but those issues will work themselves out after you become more knowledgeable of your new plumbing. It will not be perfect in the beginning but you will master it. I only had an ostomy for 8 weeks but learned quickly how to avoid problems. Try not to get too anxious about the details and focus more on your soon to be improved health!

Sue
Posted 1/16/2009 8:11 PM (GMT 0)
For starters, the only stupid question is the one that isn't asked!!

Secondly, I haven't had a leak in public in over 19 years, and I'm a VERY active guy! Most leaks occur in the beginning, and are almost always caused by the person and not the appliance. Either the appliance was left on too long, or wasn't applied correctly. In the beginning we're not exactly experts at changing our appliance. You should expect a leak or two until you really get the hang of it. It really is trial and error for a little while.

But, what you're feeling is quite normal. Once you've had the surgery, and you're out and about, you'll start to realize your worries were unfounded.

Plus, who wants to wear a diaper? Not me!!!

Posted 1/16/2009 9:25 PM (GMT 0)
exactly what they said!
also, if something happens and you have a leak down the front of your pants, the first thought someone has is nto gonna be, oh poop! it's gonna be that you spilled something on yourself. Someone on here had a coke and just pretended that was it, lol.
Also, as a general rule, it isn't like a huge flood of stuff, it's like a little trickle, you catch it, then it's over.
Like vetteguy said, it's usually user error and after a few times you will get it down pat! most of thepeople withthe leaks are people who are new at it!
DONT be nervous (yeah right, tlike that's possible, lol) just remember how sick you are now, and how muchbetter you are gonna feel soon!
Posted 1/16/2009 9:46 PM (GMT 0)
Bratcat only had one noticeable leak. She turned over in bed when she was full (and enjoying sleep) and it got on her PJs and bedding. Her other "leaks" were minor. She would notice that output would be dribbling (for want of a better word) under her wafer. You could see a line from the ostomy towards the edge of the wafer. If she let it go, it would have the potential to leak onto clothing and such. Generally she would just change it before it got to that point. She never had any accidents with UC but I would guess the reason a leak with an ostomy is better is because 1) there is no urgency or cramping and 2) you are rid of UC and on the mend.

Posted 1/16/2009 10:13 PM (GMT 0)
Chewbacca -

I remember how nervous I was when I found out I had to have my ostomy. To my surprise, my ET nurse turned out to be pretty much my 'friend'. We had SO many discussions before the surgery, she really put my mind at rest. She also gave me a book called "The Bag Lady" by Sandra Benitez. This woman is a successful fiction writer from Minneapolis. I think everyone should read it before their surgery. My whole family did! (I met her and she even signed my book!) To this day, I still don't like having an ostomy, but through this, I learned how to live with it...

http://www.amazon.com/Bag-Lady-Memoir-Sandra-Benitez/dp/0977484807

I'll try to give this Stars Wars analogy:

Your ET nurse, if she is a good one will be your Force. If she's not, find another one.

Don't underestimate the Force!

Use the Force!

May the Force be with you ....
Posted 1/18/2009 8:24 PM (GMT 0)

Love the Star Wars analogy! smilewinkgrin

Bob - I've had an ileostomy for 3 years now and have never had a leak, so it's not a common occurence. I keep an extra set of supplies in my car, just in case, but I've never had to use them.

No worries, mate! :-)

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