Travelling has become a huge passion of mine since having a stoma from ileostomy surgery. I have enjoyed several trips and here are my are my top tips to ensure you enjoy a great vacation while travelling with a stoma bag and controlling stoma function.
Stoma bag good practices
If travelling to hot countries, I always change the bag in an air conditioned environment or if this is not possible, use a fan to cool the skin while fitting the bag.
This will ensure a stronger hold, and reduce the risk of skin conditions relating to the build up of bacteria in humid conditions.
I change the bag daily. This will keep the skin sanitized and help prevent bacteria build up from the heat. This will also mitigate leaks during the day as the hold will be stronger. Daily changes can damage the skin but for a short term trip, minor skin damage is better than leakage or skin infections.
I avoid applying sun lotion too thick around the bag. Combined with sweat will cause the adhesion to come away from the skin. I use a lotion that is as non-greasy as possible. Remove any sweat with a towel and keep the area as cool as possible.
Diet while travelling with a stoma bag
Eat low fibre food in the mornings. Avoid fruit, fruit juices and vegetables. These will create a looser output, gas and more stoma function. It will also mean you have to empty the bag more. Eating lower fibre foods such as eggs, bread and proteins will mean you empty the bag less with less stoma function and have a thicker output. This will free up time to enjoy your day exploring and reduce anxiety about leaks.
I eat fruits, vegetables, or any other desired food in the evening, this will mean I empty my bag more through the night, but I prefer to keep the day free so I can travel around.
Hydration
I stay hydrated at all times and drink plenty of electrolyte drinks to keep energy levels up. I can enjoy alcohol but make extra effort to stay hydrated while doing this. Dehydration can cause tiredness and lack of energy which can impact your trip.
Drink Bottled water
I stick to bottled water and avoid ice in drinks in places I do not trust. I find this good practice to avoid stomach bugs. A stomach bug can really damage your holiday due to having to constantly monitor your bag which fills up more regularly.
Food Hygiene wile travelling with a stoma bag
I trust my instincts on this one, if a place doesn’t look right I don’t eat there – its just not worth a stomach bug.
I always check out restaurants on TripAdvisor before I eat there.
Clothing
Wear comfortable fitting clothing. Slimmer fitting clothes can be uncomfortable and will show the bag more when it needs emptying which can be uncomfortable. I stick to looser fitting shirts and shorts while travelling.
While swimming, or for active beach days, I wear shorts with an elastic waist to support the stoma bag in place.
Finally, enjoy your trip! Travelling with a stoma sould be no different to anyone else – just some extra organisation and planning needed. I have taken many trips with my stoma and hope to take many more also.
To read more about travelling with a stoma – Travel