Products I Use
These are the products I use for my ostomy solution, check vitals, and take to stay healthy. Remember that these are products that work for me and may not work for you. I am also not sponsored or affiliated with any of these companies. These are tried and tested from myself after months of using them. Check with your doctor before taking any of these products.
Pouching Solutions
When changing I use these products, I typically can get 4-5 days worth of wear depending on the activity, and the climate. I use a two piece solution because both stomas recede into my skin. I need the convexity to help pull the stoma out. I use a barrier ring to help reinforce the barrier ring because I am prone to leaks. I use belts to tighten the rings closer to my body to help. I highly recommend trying different products as products do innovate and get better with time.
SUR-FIT Natura® Two-Piece Durahesive® Skin Barrier with CONVEX-IT® Technology
No Bells and Whistles, just a simple, and easy to put on wafer. I uses this for both my urostomy and ileostomy.
I enjoy the cloth like texture on the front it keeps it from rattling and less noticeable underneath clothes. It also has a charcoal filter that helps release gas and reduce bulging.
Natura™ + Two-Piece Urostomy Pouch with Soft Tap
I actually am mixed sometimes I like it and other days I hate it. It might work better for you but this is what I am currently using.
I use the largest one and the reason is because if you get the small ones they are just smaller and you get more use from the larger ones. Ostomy nurses will recommend to use the small wafer but I think you are better off molding your own ring. I mold my own rings and apply them where necessary. I use them for both my ilestomy and urostomy.
I don't use a Convatec belt because I think they're to small. I recommend this one because they feel softer and I don't think dig into your skin as much as the others.
Health Supplements
Because I have a high output ileostomy and urostomy I need to make sure I am getting all my required nutrients. It can be difficult in a fast paced life to take time to make a smoothie or take a vitamin. You would be surprised at how quickly you can get dehydrated. I have always been told that the moment your brain tells you to drink is the moment you need to drink. These are the products I recommend and you will find in my pantry.
Men's Multivitamin Gummies- Berry - 150ct - up&up™
I take these once a day in the morning to make sure I get a good start in the day. It doesn't matter what brand you take but I do heavily recommend to start your day with a multivitamin.
Ka’Chava Whole Body Meal Shake
I usually try a protein shake at least every other day. I use this one as its a complete solution a meal replacement instead of just protein powder. Most products on the market don't have a ton of nutrients except protein.
Hydration Multiplier® (Liquid IV)
I use them when I am in a pinch, I usually keep a bottle of water in my car, and if I feel thirsty or start cramping I will take one. Some flavors are better then others but I recommend rocket pop, lemon-lime, or grape.
Gatorlyte Rapid Rehydration Electrolyte Drink
If I don't carry a "Liquid IV" around or if I am sitting around the house I will drink one of these.
Health Devices
With everything going on I have to make sure I am in "good" health or at least good enough to walk out the door. I check my blood pressure, vitals, and weight everyday. I do it because any changes in your vitals can be the first sign that there is an issue with your body. One product I recommend is expensive but without it I would have died.
I track my weight every day because I need to make sure I am not losing weight or gaining it severely. Weight gain cause cause long-term issues with my back. Also to little weight means I am a not getting the necessary nutrients I need. The data is sent to my phone and it also tells me my weight from a previous weigh-in.
I use this because it connects back with my phone and I can gauge any changes. Usually another indicator for dehydration is low blood pressure. So it tracks your baseline and you can tell if its lower day to day without the hassle of doing it yourself.
Braun Thermoscan Ear Thermometer
Tracking your temperature is the first and easiest way to determine if there is something wrong. I use this one because its the one most hospitals use.
This is something new I integrated. I like that it tracks a multitude of things more then my Apple Watch. It tracks sleep, stress, heart rate, and its just an extra layer of technology to help with my health.
I have a story to tell with why I recommend everyone to have a "Smart Watch". My wife is from the mountains of NC. During the Holidays we travel to see them. We were planning to go one weekend to see everyone. I wear my watch almost everyday and one night it kept giving me warning of an elevated heart rate the night before we are supposed to leave. I check my temperature and it is at 102.7 degrees. I feel fine and I think maybe its just off and I wait a little longer.