Helpful Hints for Summertime and
Vacationing

With warmer weather on the way, here are a few helpful hints for caring for
your ostomy:

  1. Be sure to drink plenty of liquids unless other health problems prohibit, additional fluids are
    necessary during the hot summer months. Dehydration is a common problem and can be prevented by drinking more water and sport drinks. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, these can cause more dehydration.
  2. You may need to change your pouch more frequently during the summer months. You may find that your wafer or barrier melts away faster in the warm temperatures. Increasing the pouch change to every few days will help.
  3. Yes, you can go in the water! Swimming with an ostomy is an activity you can enjoy without worrying about your pouch falling off. Empty your pouch before jumping in and get into the swim of things.
  4. Select a swim suit that is a dark color with a busy pattern, such as flowers or prints. This will camouflage your pouch and prevent the pouch from showing when wet.
  5. If you wear a pouch with a filter, cover the filter opening with tape to prevent it from getting wet while swimming.
  6. For additional security during swimming, water sports and Jacuzzi use, you can picture frame around your barrier with a waterproof tape or “pink tape”. This will prevent the barrier from loosening during prolonged water exposure.
  7. It is a common problem to develop a red, raised, itchy rash on the skin around your stoma during the summertime. You may have developed a yeast infection know as Candidiasis. This can be treated with a special anti-fungal powder. This powder is available over the counter or in a more potent strength by prescription. Contact your physician or ET/WOC nurse if you suspect a yeast infection maybe developing or present. To prevent this, dry the pouch thoroughly after being in the shower or swimming. A hairdryer on a cool or warm setting maybe used to dry the pouch. Pouch covers may also be used to keep the pouch away from direct contact with the skin.
  8. When traveling by plane, boat or train, always carry your extra ostomy supplies with you. Do not pack them away in case your luggage is lost. Due to heightened airport security, you may want to pre-cut your pouching equipment prior to traveling.
  9. There are restrictions on liquids, gels and aerosols. You are permitted to carry 3 ounces or less of these items in a separate plastic zip top clear bag. Remember these restrictions apply only to carry-on-luggage, so you can pack as much as you want in your checked luggage.