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Common Stoma Problems and Solution 

There are some common problems that arise when using medical tape on your ostomy system. To help you deal with issues, we look at two such problems arising with the tape. And suggest ways of coping with these problems.

Problem One: 

One of the problems is that the edges of your ostomy wafer may start peeling up. When you are in the pool, using a sauna, or when the temperature is up and causing you to sweat.

The Solution:

Use 3M Blenderm 

This plastic tape is waterproof tape. It is a tape that keeps external fluids and contaminants from wounds. It will hold up against the water when you are in the pool or sauna. It will even resist penetration by your sweat in the summer heat. 

The best method of applying this tape to the ostomy wafer is to use the tape to “frame” its outer edges. The same way as you would frame a picture using half of the tape width on the wafer. The other half would paste onto your skin.

 The tape will be over the edges of the ostomy wafer. And it will hold them flat on your skin. Your skin must be dry for the 3M Blenderm to hold well on it. So, it would be good to dry your ostomy and the skin around it with a hairdryer. Ensure it is completely dry before sticking on the pouch with the tape.

You should note that the 3M Blenderm is hypoallergenic tape and could be a problem if you have sensitive skin. The 3M Cavilon will make a nice barrier film to protect your skin from tape and any stoma output. Just wipe the area with this barrier film and allow it to dry properly before putting on the ostomy bag and wafer. 

When removing the tape if it is hard to come off, the use of an adhesive remover will help. Adhesive removers will help to prevent damage. Or stripping off your skin when you are removing the tape.

Problem Two

With a one-piece closed ostomy pouch, there is worry about damage or stripping to the skin. The repeated removing and replacing the tape on the same skin can affect sensitive skin. 

The Solution:

3M Micropore paper tape is great for sensitive skin. It is less likely that your skin will strip or be damaged with the use of this tape. It was made for the removal and retaping several times even on sensitive skin. The 3M Micropore is a great option with an ostomy since it works well on damp skin. 

This tape is more often used in hospitals and can be obtained in tan or white. It is latex-free and hypoallergenic. To get the best protection from sweat and water, you can use tape to frame the wafer edges as described above. With the wafer edges covered you can be at the poolside or in the sauna with ease. 

Make sure you never accept ostomy bags that are ill-fitting. There is always a pouch that will fit you well whether you have an ileostomy, colostomy, or urostomy, With healthy skin, your ostomy system can work well. There may be a rare setback, but it should be an exception rather than the rule.