Still Looking For Consistency

Sorry Mike to hear other stoma, skin, problems; you have taught me not to be completely down on 'my innie' (still would rather have an 'outie') Had another checkup with surgeon and all went well. Told him about 'minor problems' with my 'inne'. He was sympathetic but said it is part of learning curve and he is right. Asked him if losing about 40 pounds would help make 'innie' and 'outie' and his smiled and said --- possibly. Of course trying to lose weight at 72 --- like there are too many calories in 'air' --- losing weight would mean I would have to stop eating --- well, maybe not! I did basically cleared up all the rashes, fungi and assorted irratations and using a Wafer, moved from Hollister to Convatec (thinner) and that seems to help but still using Coloplast bag since skin seems not allergic (another cause of breakouts) to adhesive. I thought I was only allergic to four letter word 'work'. Hey, I am one of those preachers who know all those four letter words and express myself quite clearly as being disatisfied with some things 'My Boss' seems to think I need to experience --- Take Care, Herb†

Just a note to point out that even those with outties are not living a perfect life. I discovered the longer wear of the belted convex bag and was leaving it on for 7 days leak free. It was wonderful until I found I had damaged my stomach material around my stoma. I’m now using diluted vinegar & stoma powder to neutralize & treat that damaged skin. Being on the learning curve was not what I planned for 70 but o well. Sometimes having a bit of humor helps. I’ve named my stoma “Squirt”! Sorry Preacher but sometimes a blast of 4 letter words makes me feel better.

Herb...I forgot to mention in my prior post that I have gotten a lot of helpful information on the UOAA discussion board. People with ileostomies often have the same issues that we have and they have a lot of helpful hints and are full of useful information. There are many people with urostomies that post and I think you might find some help on that site.
Blessings...Jean

Thanks Jean: I know it sounds terrrible but thanks for sharing your difficulties. I tend to focus on reading blogs where people are saying hey they get 4 or 5 days and change it because they were told they should --- yes, I experience same thing --- I have couple of changes that go well 3 or 4 days --- then you are right then I have 3 bags in a row that leak. Had check up today and asked Doc (surgeon) would it help my 'innie' if I lost the extra 40 pounds, most of it in stomach area and he said --- more than likely --- I love it they always cover the bases just in case losing weight doesn't help

I am going to try losing the weight but as soon as I turned 60, I gain weight simply by breathing --- I was skinny my entire life, never ever had to lose weight, in fact I used to have drink double egg nogs to keep weight --- how the worm turns!

If the Boss Upstairs is listening 'I am not complaining' well, not much ---- Well again thanks your sharing helped --- darn --- misery likes company --- see how I am Herb†

Herb...I had my RC Oct.2006 and have had problems with leaks from the very beginning. Now that I have a hernia it is a real problem so I know what you are going through. You get 3 days...no leaks and then 3 changes in one day. It really makes you uneasy about going to far away from home. I have been using a Cymed seal cut in half under the stoma where I have a dip and that has helped some. I hope you find an answer because, like you, I am blessed to be celebrating my 77th.birthday the end of this month cancer free but sure would love to not have this problem.
Blessings...Jean

have contacted all major manufactors all have been helpful ust no solution yet. Take Care Herb†