Winter Stoma Care Tips

Winter weather can pose some unique challenges for stoma and urology patients. Here are some tips and advice to help you stay comfortable and manage your medical condition during the colder months.

For Stoma Patients

  • Keep Your Stoma Warm: Cold weather can cause your stoma to shrink or become less active. To prevent this, keep it warm by wearing layers of clothing and tucking them in to insulate the area. Ensure that your clothing layers are not too tight or restrict your stoma.
  • Stay Hydrated: Heated indoor environments and layers of clothing can lead to increased fluid loss. Make sure to stay well-hydrated to avoid dehydration, which can affect your stoma's output.
  • Protect Against Skin Irritation: Dry and cold weather can lead to skin irritation around your stoma. If this occurs consult with your stoma nurse for advice if to use a barrier creams or products to protect the peristomal skin.
  • Plan for Extra Supplies: Winter weather can sometimes lead to delays in deliveries. Ensure you have an ample supply of ostomy pouches, skin care products, and other supplies to last through the season. When traveling in winter, pack extra stoma supplies. Unexpected travel delays due to weather conditions could mean that you are out for longer than expected.
 

For Urology Patients

  • Stay Hydrated: During the cold winter months when using Indoor heating the dry  air can contribute to  dehydration. Dehydration can increase the risk of a urinary tract infection. Drink enough water to stay well-hydrated.
  • Dress Warmly: Layer your clothing to stay warm and prevent your bladder from contracting too much, which can cause discomfort or urgency.
  • Plan Bathroom Breaks: Be prepared for the potential for more frequent urination due to the cold. Plan your outings and activities to allow for easy access to restrooms.
  • Avoid Cold Exposure: Prolonged exposure to cold weather can cause muscle contractions, which may exacerbate urinary symptoms. Stay warm and limit time outdoors in extremely cold weather.
  • Carry Extra Catheters or Supplies: Just like stoma patients, make sure you have an adequate supply of catheters and related supplies on hand to avoid running out during the winter.
  • Maintain Proper Catheter Hygiene: The risk of UTIs can be higher during the winter months, so be extra vigilant about maintaining good catheter hygiene.
Always consult your healthcare provider for personalised advice and guidance on managing your specific medical condition during the winter. They can provide recommendations tailored to your unique needs and challenges.

Benefits of using Bullens home delivery

Specialist Nurses

We have a team of clinical nurse specialists for both stoma and urology. They are available to offer help and support with any issues that you might be having.

Specialist Pharmacist

We have a specialist pharmacist who can give advice on your medication. We can also deliver all of your prescription medication.

Personal Advisor

A dedicated personal advisor who will call or email you on a monthly, or pre-arranged basis to check that everything is okay and take your order.

Dedicated Delivery Service

We have a team of dedicated Bullen drivers who deliver to our customers in certain areas. Where we don't have a Bullen driver we use our award winning delivery partner DPD.