Folds or Creases - If folds or creases develop in the skin, and leakage always occurs along the crease, wafer pieces or ostomy paste can be used to build up the area in order to avoid leakage. Consult your ET nurse for proper methods.
Peristomal Skin Irritation - Pouches will not stick well to irritated skin. So, perform meticulous skin care in order to avoid irritated or denuded skin. If any of these problems develop, consult your ET nurse or physician at once so that the problem can be nipped in the bud.
Improper Pouch Angle - If the pouch does not hang vertically, the weight of its contents can exercise an uneven twisting pull on the wafer and cause leakage. Ostomates must find an optimal angle based on individual body configuration.
Too Infrequent Emptying - Pouches should be emptied before they become half full. If the pouch overfills, weight of the affluent may break the seal and cause leakage.
Extremely High Temperature - Wafer melt-out may cause leakage in warm weather. More frequent pouch changes or a change in wafer material may be needed to avoid leakage.
Pouch Wear and Tear - Disposable wafers do wear out. If you are stretching your wear time, leakage may be due to the wafer wearing out. Change your appliance more frequently.
Improperly Stored Appliances and Aging Materials - Store your ostomy supplies in a cool dry place. Humidity may affect your pouch adhesive. Appliances dont last forever. Ask your vendor what the recommended shelf life is for your brand of appliance.
