Stages of Leak Severity and Management Tips

I got to thinking that there are leaks and then there are LEAKS. So I developed a staging guide. (Anyone else think I might have too much time on my hands?)

Stage 0: Output is pancaking but you catch it before it compromises the device seal

Stage 1: Leak is contained under the flange. You catch it before the skin becomes irritated. 

Stage 2: Leak is contained under flange extender. The skin is irritated and needs treatment. 

Stage 3: Leak has compromised the seal and is making a mess. The mess is well contained. 

Stage 4: Leak has compromised the seal and is making a mess. Stoma is erupting like a volcano so that all you can do is try to contain the mess. Once it stops you start to prep a new appliance only to have a second eruption. You spend an hour changing the appliance and cleaning up.

Hi SusanT,

You've definitely got a creative way of looking at leaks! I'm sure you'll find plenty of support and advice from our large community here. It's great to see someone breaking down the stages like this—it can really help others understand what they're dealing with.

For managing leaks, I find that using a barrier ring can help prevent them from reaching those higher stages. Also, keeping a close eye on your appliance's wear time and changing it before it gets too worn can make a big difference. If you're dealing with frequent leaks, it might be worth trying different products to see what works best for you.

Remember, there are thousands of members here, so use the search feature to find others nearby. You might even find someone around your age to chat with in person, which can be really comforting. Good luck!

Susie-Baby.......you got waaaaay too much time on your hands.  Have you considered volunteering your time at a local shelter or with Habitat For Humanity (or similar organization)?  You obviously have an awesome personality that needs to be shared in real-time..........not wasted online.  You're denying people the experience of interfacing with you live and in person...........which is something the internet sadly cannot accomplish!  

But if that's not your bag.........ok.  For me I don't think of leaks in stages.........I think of how to deal with them in stages.  Once you know you have a leak what do you do about it?

Stage 1: Be a person of action.  Stop everything and change your barrier no matter where you are or how difficult it'll be.

Stage 2: Trust your luck.  Simply tape it up and hope it holds until some convenient time to change it.

Stage 3: Be lazy.  You've already soiled the sheets.......just stay in the wet spot, go back to sleep, and deal with it in the morning.

Stage 4: Panic.  You know the type......make a big scene.....call the EMT's.....have a pity party and woe's you.

Stage 5: Be 'not too brite':  See Stages 3 and 4.  Cuz you can't fix stupid.

;O)

I like the habitat for humanity suggestion. I could use the tray on my walker to deliver drinks and wise cracks all over the work site. When I called them they told me they'd put my volunteer application in the circular file. I can't envision a circular file but as long as it's filed.

Sadly I can't relate to your response stages 3 thru 5. It appears I've been slacking off on the response continuum.

Hi Susan,  Lol!  Yes, perhaps a bit too much time on your hands.  Someone brought up this subject a while back and it seems there is no consensus on what exactly constitutes a leak and/or a blowout.  Having to categorize leaks into different stages makes things even more complicated, and I doubt you will ever get all, or even most ostomates to agree.  Nice thought though!

Terry

When I was working, the garbage can was referred to as the “circular file”.  Are you jesting or am I misinterpreting something?🤷‍♂️

How to Manage Ostomy Leaks with LeeAnne Hayden | Hollister

Cheers, 

Ron White!

Good response and true. 

SharkFan

I was jesting. Lol

LOL! Got me!

I need someone to mow my lawn if you have too much time on your hands, Susan. 🤣

You left out number 5.

I once wrote a leak review on here…number 5 was:

Get me the frick out of this restaurant!!! jb

Well, lately I've been having 3s and a couple of 4s. Been drinking lots of water because I thought maybe with the change of weather I've cut back, trying not to eat past 5, drinking coffee which usually waters it up. Used a sample Convatec with the protective seal which did heal it up but failed on the 2nd night. Scared to go anywhere and never had this much trouble before.

Well, lately I've been having 3s and a couple of 4s. Been drinking lots of water because I thought maybe with the change of weather I've cut back, trying not to eat past 5, drinking coffee which usually waters it up. Used a sample Convetec with the protective seal which did heal it up but failed on the second night. Scared to go anywhere and never had this much trouble before.