First, it is important to demystify this fact, because the presence of a stoma does not make it impossible for you to fully enjoy summer days. However, there are some aspects that must be taken into account so that you can safely enjoy the moment and relax, especially when it is time to be in the sun.
Care begins even before you leave home. The first step is to make sure that you have replaced your stoma with a new one, preferably opaque and smaller, to be more discreet, and thus hide the contents and the stoma. Make sure that the stoma device is well attached to the skin. It is important that you choose a location, be it a beach, a pool or a river, that has practical access to sanitary facilities, so that you can take care of your hygiene or change your equipment, if necessary.
In addition to the normal aspects that must be observed to maintain your overall quality of life, such as, for example, respecting the hours of exposure to the sun and the use of sunscreen suitable for your skin type, you must ensure that you have in place the ostomy devices in sufficient quantities so that you can replace them in a convenient and comfortable way if needed.
On the issue of food, you have the green light to choose the foods that are most suitable for you, however, when you leave the house, it is recommended to avoid foods that contain fiber. It’s also important to make sure you’re hydrated, as people with ostomy are more prone to dehydration, especially when exposed to high temperatures.
If you are able to meet these requirements, but are still not comfortable with the idea of doing an activity that shows off your body and your ostomy bag, know that there are indeed swimming trunks, swimsuits, and bikinis with bands that completely conceal the ostomy bag, making it practically imperceptible. And if you don’t choose to hide your bag, don’t be ashamed. Greatness should not be a taboo or a secret. Don’t let this feature stop you from having fun this summer!
Tania Vieira
A nurse specializing in dental treatment in a hospital Beatriz Angelo Hospital
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