The are many reason people come to Medical Monks to buy their medical supplies. Great prices, fast shipping, knowledgeable customer care associates, the list goes on . . . but why on earth would anyone pay for their own medical supplies?
We talk to a lot of customers who call us and want to place a phone order for their medical supplies. Customers share their situation and many are quick to tell us why they are calling and paying for their own supplies. Here are the top 5 reasons they give:
1. No Health Insurance
If you don’t have health insurance, but have a chronic illness, you will need to pay cash for your medical supplies. However, unfortunately many in this situation forgo treating their chronic condition with the medical supplies they need.
2. High-Deductible Health Plan
Many Americans now have higher deductibles to meet before their health insurance benefits kick in. While we understand that having a higher deductible usually means lower monthly premiums and that some benefits, like preventative care, are covered before you meet your deductible, almost all plans require you meet your entire individual or family deductible before your supplies are covered. Especially at the beginning of the year, this can mean paying entirely out of pocket for your supplies.
Even if you have insurance, you may prefer to shop online and pay cash for medical supplies. While most online suppliers will not bill your health insurance (most of them aren’t contracted with any insurances at all) some will and many will provide you with a list of codes so that you can submit the bill to your insurance. While you won’t receive anything back from your insurance, you will receive “credit” towards your deductible. Especially if you or another family members expects to use your insurance throughout the year, you want to make sure every dollar you spend out of pocket is counted towards your deductible.
You should also consider using your HSA (health savings account) or FSA (flexible spending account) funds to pay for supplies. Save your receipts!
3. Dealing With Health Insurance Is Too Complicated
Some patients choose to pay for certain procedures or supplies with cash because they don’t want to deal with the hassle of authorizations, co-insurances, explanation of benefit statements, and the list goes on.
4. Don’t Like The Provider Your Health Insurance Is Contracted With
Your health insurance company, especially if it’s an HMO or medical group, may only authorize certain providers for your medical supplies. If you have limited options and don’t like the customer service, locations or product offerings from the contracted provider, you’re stuck.
We especially hear from customers who say their insurance covers only certain types of products and in only certain quantities. If a customer wants high quality supplies and in the quantities they need many times they will have to pay out-of-pocket.
5. Prefer To Order Supplies Online Or From A Specific Vendor
We hear from many customers who would rather pay cash and have a choice about where they receive their medical supplies. Some have had a bad experience with their insurance’s contracted provider or have heard from family or friends about their great better with another provider.
I hope this helps spell-out many of the reasons people are reaching for their credit or debit cards to get the supplies they need. If you have reasons not listed hear I’d love to hear from you. Please drop me a note at scott.hetland@medicalmonks.com.
About the Author
Scott Hetland is President of Medical Monks, Inc. with experience in the Medical Industry for last 12 years. Medical Monks is medical supply retailer serving consumers and businesses across the United States since 2016. Reach Scott at scott.hetland@medicalmonks.com.
Its a long and winding road! Applying ostomy appliances securely and safely can be challenging. Without proper application, there is greater risk of skin irritation, discomfort or the need for time consuming reapplication.
I am always on the lookout for good articles to pass along to our visitors / customers. Here is a great article from our friends at Hy-Tape on the subject of Adhesives:
I hope you benefit from this blog post – take care.
Scott
For more information about MEDICAL MONKS and advice on Ostomy products please visit our website at https://www.medicalmonks.com or call us at 844-859-9400.
About the Author
Scott Hetland is President of Medical Monks, Inc.. Medical Monks is medical supply retailer serving consumers and businesses across the United States. Reach Scott at scott.hetland@medicalmonks.com.
Have you felt challenged to quickly find the right Ostomy System for your needs? If so, MEDICAL MONKS introduces a new way to make this process fast and easy!
It can be difficult and time-consuming to sift through the many choices you have in Ostomy Systems. The complexity is overwhelming, even for the well-educated consumer let alone someone new to buying an ostomy system. There are nearly a dozen ostomy system manufacturers each producing many system families. Each family has a variety of features that are continually being refined and improved resulting in even more buying options for the consumer.
To help address this complexity and confusion, the Ostomy Product Experts at MEDICAL MONKS developed an innovative solution to this problem. The solution is called “SMART SEARCH”. It is a selection tool that eliminates the complexity of product selection by helping you narrow down your choices quickly through a series of easy to answer questions. The result is a recommendation of ostomy systems that that closely fits your personal answers.
The MEDICAL MONKS team is extremely excited to launch “SMART SEARCH”. We want to share the details on how it works and can help you.
Where can I get access to “SMART SEARCH”?
It is located on the MEDICAL MONKS website at the following link:
After clicking on the link you are directed to the landing page that looks like this:
Simply click the “Start Questionnaire” in the 1-Piece and 2-Piece Ostomy Systems tile to begin!
Who built the Tool – Can I trust it?
“SMART SEARCH” was built using the knowledge and experience of the MEDICAL MONKS Ostomy product specialist team who have a combined ostomy experience of 110 years! The specialists talk to dozens of customer daily answering product questions – they have answered virtually every question about ostomy products and how to use them.
Also, our team meets with manufacturer representatives and Wound Ostomy Continence Nurses (WOCN’s) on a regular basis to stay informed about the latest product enhancements and technologies.
How does it Work?
You will be asked a series of 10 multiple choice questions about your specific situation. It takes on average of about 1-2 minutes to answer all 10 of the questions.
The questions are:
Which of the following best describes the area around your stoma?
Is your stoma on or very near your belly button, hernia, groin or surgical incisions?
Where is your stoma relative to your skin surface? (see below)
What is the shape of your stoma?
What is your stoma output thickness?
What is your stoma output quantity / size?
What is your stoma output / drainage frequency?
What is your stoma gas level?
What is your pouch color preference?
What is your stoma size?
Several questions contain illustrations that make it easy to pick an answer!
What answers do I get?
Based on your answers to the questions above, we determine (in real time) what Ostomy systems fit your needs. We display both One-Piece and Two-Piece product answers (pouches and barriers to fit your size needs). We focus on “Best Value” answers. Our Best Value is a combination of PRICE and OUTCOMES. Some systems are better than others in terms of PRICE and OUTCOMES.
OUTCOMES are typically better for recently released products because they contain the latest features and technology users have come to expect. Some manufacturers are more advanced and have higher quality.
After we display the best value answers, you can choose the ostomy system products and put them in your shopping cart for purchase!
We ask you to provide your email so that we can send you your answers for future reference however it is not mandatory for you to provide your email.
If you have any questions at any point in the process you can call and talk to one of our MEDICAL MONKS Ostomy product specialists at 844-859-9400.
When do I use the tool?
“SMART SEARCH – Ostomy System” is great if you are new to buying ostomy products or would like to make a possible change to the ostomy system you are using or just looking for alternatives. If you are happy with your current ostomy system, it can be used as confirmation you are in the right system.
Changes to the stoma site will happen over the course of the first 8 weeks after you have your ostomy surgery. In addition, your body changes over time along with your activity level. It is because of these two reasons we encourage you to come back and use the tool on a regular basis as these changes happen. Also, we continually make updates as new products are introduced which can be as frequently as several times per year.
For more information about MEDICAL MONKS and advice on Ostomy products please visit our website at https://www.medicalmonks.com or call us at 844-859-9400.
About the Author
Scott Hetland is President of Medical Monks, Inc.. Medical Monks is medical supply retailer serving consumers and businesses across the United States. Reach Scott at scott.hetland@medicalmonks.com.
A Guide to Catheter-Associated Urinary Tract Infections
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are quite common and equally unpleasant. They occur when germs that do not normally exist in the bladder are introduced into the area. This can include things like bacteria and yeasts.
Catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTI) occur when bacteria or other germs travel along the catheter and cause infections in the bladder, which can extend to the kidneys, and in some cases to the bloodstream.
Prevention and education, in these cases, are the best cures to help you avoid catheter-associated urinary tract infections altogether. Here at Medical Monks, we seek to get you all the facts about catheters and their use so that you’re confident in using them and avoid CAUIT’s.
What are Symptoms of Catheter-Associated Urinary Tract Infections?
Fever (may indicate the infection has spread to the kidneys)
Foul smelling urine
Frequent urination
Spasms in lower belly or back
Strong urge to urinate
Urine leakage around the catheter
Vomiting
Among older adults, the only indication of a urinary tract infection may be mental changes or confusion.
Keep in mind, though, that not everyone experiences the same symptoms with catheter-associated urinary tract infections. Some individuals don’t experience any of the common symptoms.
Understanding Your CAUTI Risks and Contributing Factors
It is helpful for you to understand the risks and contributing factors that might heighten your personal risk for catheter-associated urinary tract infections.
Situational Risk Factors
These situations can heighten your risks:
If the catheter remains in place for six days or longer.
If it is inserted in an environment that isn’t sterile.
If it isn’t properly positioned and the drainage tube is located above the bladder or falls below the level of your drainage bag.
Personal Risk Factors
There are also personal factors that affect your risks. For instance, females have greater risk factors as well as women who are pregnant. In addition, anyone who suffers from chronic illness or has diabetes mellitus, and people who are malnourished or are otherwise in frail health, among others, according to the Wound Ostomy and Continence Nurses Society, are at a higher risk of developing a catheter-associated UTI . Other common risk factors, according to the Centers for Disease Control, are immunity impairments and advanced age.
Secondary Risk Factors
There is a subset of secondary risk factors associated with developing catheter-associated urinary tract infections. They include:
Dehydration
History of urinary tract infections
Immobility
Poor personal hygiene
While these things do not necessarily ensure that you will have a urinary tract infection, they are supporting factors. Addressing them early may help to prevent them and will certainly remove them as contributing factors.
Problems/Solutions Associated with Catheter-Associated Urinary Tract Infections
One of the big problems with catheter-associated urinary tract infections, according to the National Library of Medicine, is that it is more difficult to treat using common antibiotics than traditional urinary tract infections.
The best solution is to practice preventative steps to avoid catheter-associated urinary tract infections whenever possible. If that fails, despite your best effort, the next best thing is to work closely with your doctor to determine the best course of treatment for the severity of your catheter-associated urinary tract infection.
The first step, of course, is to determine whether you have a catheter-associated urinary tract infections or if there is something else going on. This may require a urinalysis, a urine culture, an ultrasound, or a CT examination of your urinary system.
Urine cultures are often helpful as they can help determine which type of bacteria is involved so that the best antibiotic to address your specific CAUTI is prescribed.
Steps You can Take to Reduce Catheter-Associated Urinary Tract Infections at Home
You’ll find that the likelihood of you contracting a urinary tract infection from using your catheter is greatly diminished, if you take preventative steps, like these:
Step 1 – Make sure the catheter is truly necessary before agreeing to it.
Step 2 – Wash your hands before and after touching the catheter – each and every time.
Step 3 – Make sure the urine bag is below the level of the bladder at all times.
Step 4 – Take steps to ensure that there are no kinks or twists in the catheter tubing.
Step 5 – Avoid tugging or pulling on the tube. Keep it close so that it doesn’t become snagged easily.
Step 6 – Ask your doctor if you can stop using the catheter. If it isn’t medically necessary, it’s time to move on since the longer you use one the greater the risk of a catheter-associated urinary tract infection becomes.
Checklist for Preventing Catheter-Associated Urinary Tract Infections
If you must wear a catheter, review this list daily in order to help prevent catheter-associated urinary tract infections.
Use catheters only when medically necessary.
Keep a catheter in place for only as long as needed.
Clean the area around the catheter opening daily.
Use soap and water to clean the catheter daily.
Always, always, always wash your hands before and after touching the catheter.
Avoid resting bag on the floor.
Empty the bag frequently – at least every eight hours and whenever your bag is full. Be careful that the drainage spout doesn’t come into contact with anything while you are emptying the bag.
Ask your healthcare provider often if the catheter continues to be necessary, especially if you know your catheter to be a temporary situation. Squeaky wheels get oil and the longer you have the catheter, the higher your risks of infection become.
It is essential to work in conjunction with your physician in order to properly treat your catheter-associated urinary tract infection. It will most likely begin with a culture to determine the specific bacteria causing your infection. Then antibiotics are generally a first choice.
It is extremely important for you to finish your course of antibiotics – even after you begin to feel better. This is so that all the bacteria are effectively killed off and do not develop a tolerance for the antibiotics.
Some people treating these infections at home will attempt to consume two to three quarts of fluid daily. However, before following this advice, make sure it is safe for you to do so. Some people may be at greater risk from consuming too many liquids.
Severe case may require stronger antibiotics that must be delivered through an intravenous drip. If you are suffering from bladder spasms you may be prescribed medications to lessen those.
In severe cases, you may need to be hospitalized so seek treatment as soon as you suspect that you may have a catheter-associated urinary tract infection.
Wake Up Call Concerning Catheter-Associated Urinary Tract Infections
Leaving a urinary tract infection untreated can result in further damage and more severe infections, including a very serious infection known as sepsis. You may even damage your kidneys or develop stones in your kidney or bladder as a result. Some cases may even result in permanent damage to the kidneys.
What are Some Great Catheters on the Market Today?
Medical Monks offers an extensive selection of catheters for people who use them at home or outside of the hospital setting. We choose our top catheter supply manufacturers for their high quality and diverse catheter types.
We believe that with the proper information and education about our catheters and catheter-associated urinary tract infections, you can take preventative steps to reduce your risk of getting them.
Please feel free to contact us with any questions and concerns you have about your current catheter, purchasing a new catheter, or your risks for developing urinary tract infections related to your use of a catheter.
For more information about catheters, please call us here at Medical Monks at 844-859-9400, text us at 614-636-6657 or visit our chat for Live Help.
Have you felt challenged to quickly find the right Wound Care Dressing for your needs? If so, MEDICAL MONKS introduces a new way to make this process fast and easy!
It can be difficult and time-consuming to sift through the many choices you have in wound care dressings. The complexity is overwhelming, even for the well-educated consumer let alone someone new to buying wound care dressings. There are many manufacturers who produce wound care dressings each producing many families of products. Each family has a variety of features that are continually being refined and improved resulting in even more buying options for the consumer.
To help address this complexity and confusion, the Wound Care Product Specialists at MEDICAL MONKS developed an innovative solution to this problem. The solution is called “SMART SEARCH”. It is a selection tool that eliminates the complexity of product selection by helping you narrow down your choices quickly through a series of easy to answer questions. The result is a recommendation of wound care dressings that closely fits your personal answers.
The MEDICAL MONKS team is extremely excited to launch “SMART SEARCH”. We want to share the details on how it works and can help you.
Where can I get access to “SMART SEARCH”?
It is located on the MEDICAL MONKS website at the following link:
After clicking on the link you are directed to the landing page that looks like this:
Simply click the “Start Questionnaire” in the Advanced Wound Care Dressings tile to begin!
Who built the Tool – Can I trust it?
“SMART SEARCH” was built using the knowledge and experience of the MEDICAL MONKS Advanced Wound Care product specialist team who have a combined wound care experience of more than 80 years! The specialists talk to dozens of customer daily answering product questions – they have answered virtually every question about wound care products and how to use them.
Also, our team meets with manufacturer representatives and Wound Ostomy Continence Nurses (WOCN’s) on a regular basis to stay informed about the latest product enhancements and technologies.
How does it Work?
You will be asked a series of up to 5 multiple choice questions about your specific situation. It takes on average of less than one minute to answer the questions.
The questions are:
What is your wound type?
What is your wound condition / appearance?
What is your wound depth?
What is your wound exudate level?
Are there signs of infection?
What answers do I get?
Based on your answers to the questions above, we determine (in real time) what advanced wound dressings fit your needs. We focus on “Best Value” answers. Our Best Value is a combination of PRICE and OUTCOMES. Some systems are better than others in terms of PRICE and OUTCOMES.
OUTCOMES are typically better for recently released products because they contain the latest features and technology users have come to expect. Some manufacturers are more advanced and have higher quality.
After we display the best value answers, you can choose the advanced wound care dressing product and put it in your shopping cart for purchase!
We ask you to provide your email so that we can send you your answers for future reference however it is not mandatory for you to provide your email.
If you have any questions at any point in the process you can call and talk to one of our MEDICAL MONKS wound care product specialists at 844-859-9400.
When do I use the tool?
“SMART SEARCH – Advanced Wound Care Dressings” is great if you are new to buying wound care products or would like to make a possible change to the wound care products you are using or just looking for alternatives. If you are happy with your current wound care dressings, it can be used as confirmation you are using the right dressings.
Changes to the wound site will happen over the course of time. In addition, your body changes over time along with your activity level. It is because of these two reasons we encourage you to come back and use the tool on a regular basis as these changes happen. Also, we continually make updates as new products are introduced which can be as frequently as several times per year.
For more information about MEDICAL MONKS and advice on advanced wound care products please visit our website at https://www.medicalmonks.com or call us at 844-859-9400.
About the Author
Scott Hetland is President of Medical Monks, Inc.. Medical Monks is medical supply retailer serving consumers and businesses across the United States. Reach Scott at scott.hetland@medicalmonks.com.
As your stoma begins to heal following surgery, you may wonder about a more active lifestyle – either to resume the sports and fitness activities you have already enjoyed, or whether you’ll be able to take up a new sport that you want to try.
The thought of taking up a new sport or striving for ambitious goals in a sport previously enjoyed, can seem overwhelming. But many have done just that. In fact, they believe they are fitter and healthier than before the operation.
For many people, stoma surgery creates a renewed zest for life. Along with that new found enthusiasm comes the desire and determination to achieve goals they would never before have considered.
Stoma surgery is a major event that should not be underestimated. The first few weeks or even months following the operation may be difficult as you adjust gradually to having a stoma. However, once fully recovered and settled at home, returning to the lifestyle you enjoyed before the operation should be no problem.
“Having to cope with the operation and the change in lifestyle that goes with it, brings out a strength in people that otherwise would lie dormant.As a result, no goal seems too difficult to achieve once you’ve set your mind to it. I strongly recommend everyone to take some kind of exercise, even if it is only walking a little each day. Once you give in and become inactive, you lose so much out of life. Being active, especially in sports, can only add to the quality of life.”Betty Sands, active swimmer and ostomate
This blog post will cover commencing gentle exercises and then at three sporting areas: swimming, contact and team sports and “creating new challenges.” You will find practical advice from others who have had first-hand experience in returning to an active lifestyle. They understand the fears and practical concerns you may be facing.
As long as you have no complications and your doctor has no objection, you can enjoy almost any kind of sporting activity. Contact sports, such as rugby, karate or kung fu, are possible. Even sports that call for a lot of bending, such as bowling, lawn bowls and aerobics, have been taken up after getting a stoma.
This blog post will help answer your questions and encourage you to get the many pleasures and benefits that come from physical activity.
Whatever your type of stoma or current level of fitness, we hope you will find your own path to a healthier body.
Your Body’s Response and Capabilities
Before looking at specific sports and fitness activities, it is important to have a clear understanding of how your body has responded to your surgery.
The Stoma is Stronger than you think
The stoma that protrudes from your abdomen may look vulnerable. But it is, in fact, quite hardy. The surgical incision should be fully closed just about ten days after the operation, and, over time, the scar tissue surrounding the stoma will reach its optimum strength.
It is not that easy to injure the stoma. As an example of its resilience, a horse once accidentally kicked a person directly on the stoma. There was good deal of bruising, but the stoma itself remained undamaged and continued to work normally. Of course we are not recommending that you try this test or anything similar. Caution is key – everyone’s body has its own unique abilities and responses.
Hernia prevention and care
Everyone, even those without a stoma, should take care to protect his or her abdomen. Now that you have a stoma, you will want to be especially careful. With a stoma, the risk of hernia from lifting or strenuous exercise may be higher than that of developing a common groin hernia. This is because the muscles supporting the stoma are not as strong as they were before surgery.
You can help prevent the development of a stoma hernia by taking precautions.
Exercise – This includes gentle abdominal exercises such as sit-ups and walking.
Manage your weight. Stay within your appropriate weight range.
To help with an existing parastomal hernia, you can try specially designed support garments to care for your hernia.
Contact your local stoma support group or your stoma care nurse for further information.
Perineal wound healing
In some cases, a person may have a perineal (rectal) wound resulting from the removal of the anus and rectum. Although this area is likely to be tender for longer than a stoma wound, it will heal and become equally resilient.
Staying hydrated
If you have a stoma, particularly an ileostomy, there are occasions where you may become dehydrated. Care should be taken to drink plenty of water, unless you have a fluid restriction.
There are several situations that make you especially susceptible to dehydration. In hot climates and/or when exercising, less urine is produced, so it is more concentrated. And when diarrhea strikes, more fluid is being lost, so more should be taken in.
To help rehydrate your body, water is the best fluid, as it is the most readily available. You can also get special rehydrating solutions from most pharmacies, and sports drinks can be useful for severe cases of diarrhea.
One good sign of being well hydrated is passing clear or straw-colored urine throughout the day.
Diet for fitness
Once you recover from surgery, your diet and state of nutrition should be getting back to normal. How and what we eat is as much part of our individuality and lifestyle as our appearance and personality, and having a stoma should not restrict individual preferences.
Try whatever you like, but be cautious at first and chew thoroughly to avoid possible digestive problems. You may find that some foods upset your system, causing gas, diarrhea or even pain. Pay attention to your body to learn how your digestive system works best – when food is required, how long it takes to digest and what foods upset your system, if any.
Keep an eye on your weight. A nourishing diet includes fruit and vegetables, meat, fish, dairy products and cereal and will help keep you healthy. Additional vitamin supplements also may help to ensure you are getting the best nutrition.
Fitness results from the best possible balance between diet and exercise.
All foods contain energy in the form of calories. The number of calories we need in a day depends on two factors that will be different for everyone – the level of physical activity and metabolic rate. Both of these factors affect the amount of calories you should take in. However, everyone has a different metabolic rate, so some people will gain or lose weight when consuming the same amount of calories. Early in your healing stages, you may require more calories in the form of proteins for good cell and muscle repair and then return to your normal routine. An experienced dietician may offer helpful advice as well.
Beginning To Exercise Again
As you recover from surgery, you will probably feel tired and may have little wish for exercise.
But you know it is important for your overall health and well-being to start moving around, even just a little at a time. Exercise can help you get better faster and also prevent potential complications from sitting or lying too long. This does not mean aggressive or strenuous exercises by any means. Take it easy, start out slowly and enjoy the thought that you are getting back to your normal lifestyle.
Walking
The easiest and most effective form of exercise can be walking. It gets the blood flowing, helps with mental alertness, helps lift your spirits and generally increases your physical well-being.
Walking can be started soon after surgery and gradually increased to quite a brisk pace, adding minutes and distance over time.
You can even walk in the house. Special videos and DVDs, or even just some invigorating music, will help set the pace. Some people practice going up and down stairs to increase stamina and endurance. But if weather permits, a brisk walk outside in the fresh air can do wonders both physically and mentally.
Biking
Riding a bike is also an excellent form of exercise that does not put too much strain on your abdomen or involve heavy impact. Like walking, biking can be introduced gradually and then increased over time to higher levels.
If you have a perineal wound, you may want try other activities for a while. This area can take a while to heal, and sitting on a bike seat may cause undue discomfort. Walking might be better until this wound has fully healed.
Other favorite activities
You might enjoy aerobic activities such as skating, golfing, jogging or tennis. Training with light weights and frequent repetitions can be beneficial as well.
There is no motivation better than knowing a friend is waiting to join you in a walk around the block or a round of golf. Gentle exercise can benefit your social life as well as your body!
It is always wise to pay attention to how your body responds. You know it better than anyone else. If an activity makes you breathless or causes you pain anywhere, it might be wise to try another form of exercise, or take a break and return to it later if you feel you are up to it.
Swimming, an Easy and Gentle Way To Exercise
Swimming is a popular and beneficial form of exercise. It can be enjoyed by everyone, regardless of ability. Many people who have undergone all sorts of surgery are encouraged to take up swimming as an easy and gentle exercise.
Swimming is not only one of the best forms of exercise for every part of the body, but it can also be taken up gradually – gently at first – so as to build up stamina at a steady pace. It can be a highly sociable pastime, frequently enjoyed as a family outing. There is no reason why a person with a stoma cannot join in the fun!
Overcoming embarrassment
Swimming can help in another way – to overcome psychological hurdles. Don’t let the fear of being conspicuous in changing rooms, pools or at the beach keep you from enjoying and benefiting from the water.
The courage to take up this challenge will be rewarded by newly gained confidence, not only to enjoy more social sports but also activities such as clothes shopping and sunbathing.
“As a swimming instructor, I never doubted that I would take up swimming again after my colostomy operation. In the past seventeen years, I can honestly say I have never had an embarrassing moment at the pool because of my colostomy. Betty Sands People with a stoma may expect that others will turn to their stoma and stare. In truth, most people will not even notice the color of your swimsuit, let alone what may lie beneath it. A few years ago, when I was at the beach, I even wore a bikini and the fact that I have a colostomy went entirely unnoticed.”Betty Sands
Before going to a public swimming area, try your swimsuit at home. Wear it in the bath or shower to see how you look when it is wet and clinging to your body. Give yourself a thorough inspection in the mirror to see how you will appear to others.
If you are embarrassed changing in front of other people, try wearing a long shirt to cover most of your body. Even just draping a towel over your shoulder will keep your stoma from view, or you can change at home and wear clothes over your swimsuit.
Pouch security
Another concern is that the pouch may come loose in the water. This is unlikely, and you can prove it for yourself. Just sit in bath water for a while, and assure yourself that the seal stays snug and leak-free. The chance of the pouch showing or coming off, even one that is two-piece, is quite unlikely.
You might think diving will pull on the stoma and the pouch on impact with the water. For added security, a snug bathing suit can help keep it in place. A man can wear drawstring trunks, tightly fitted around the waist.
Will a stoma pouch dry as quickly as the rest of the body, or will it leave a wet patch?
“In my experience, I have been able to move between sauna, Jacuzzi and swimming pool over a four-hour period without any problems. My swimming trunks and ostomy pouch dried perfectly well, and I did not need to change my pouch in-between sessions.”Chris Penney, ileostomate Former National Secretary to the Ileostomy Association and marathon runner.
There are special suppliers who make swimsuits to fit particular needs, such as high-waisted swim trunks. Check with your stoma association or local chapter to ask if they know of any local suppliers in your area.
Contact and Team Sports
If you thrill to the action of a team or contact sport, do not let minor concerns keep you from returning to the sport. Having a stoma will mean planning ahead, but you can continue to participate.
You may be concerned about your stoma, wondering whether it can be damaged.
As a reminder, the stoma is firmly fixed approximately ten days after the operation and reaches its maximum strength some months later. Damage to a stoma is unlikely, even if there is a problem; it may be a simple procedure to repair a stoma.
Another concern is possible damage to the pouch, that it could be punctured or ripped off. In contact sports, it might get in the way of a rugby tackle, kung-fu kick or wrestling grip. To avoid a damaged pouch, precautions can be taken.
For added security, many people use firmly-fitted waistbands or girdles to keep the pouch securely in place. Everyone has individual needs and preferences, so it is up to you to try these options to see what suits you best. Try different sports outfits, such as running tights or Lycra shorts, to see what works best for you. You could even use your ingenuity and design your own means of keeping your pouch secure.
Competitive sports call for both skill and fitness. So it is essential to build up to the proper level of fitness gradually, before returning to or taking up a strenuous sport after the operation.
If a lot of running is involved, rubbing or chafing around the stoma may occur. This happens when a single movement is repeated. Little red marks similar to mouth ulcers might appear on the stoma. They should heal quickly and disappear with rest. Double-check that the pouching system is not too tight or cuts into the stoma. If the small ulcer areas persist, using Adapt Stoma Powder directly on the ulcers may help. Follow the instructions in the package.
If the pouch fits properly and is not too long, it should not touch or rub against the skin. Covers are available for comfort and to absorb perspiration during activities, but they are by no means essential.
Empty your pouch at the beginning of any activity, and if you have a colostomy and you wish to minimize the “flow” from the stoma, stick to a low-fiber diet.
Be sure to watch out for dehydration. Drink plenty of fluids before and after activities.
Creating New Challenges
People with a stoma often feel more determined to become fitter and healthier than they were before the operation. This can lead to a tremendous determination to reach ambitious goals they might not have set before their surgery.
Chris Penney, former National Secretary to the Ileostomy Association, has had an ileostomy for many years. Before the operation he only had an average interest in sports, but he was inspired to be a stronger athlete. He became a marathon runner because he wanted to set an example.
“I would never have believed I would ever become a marathon runner – 26 miles and 385 yards is a long way – but I have completed four marathons and am still keen to keep on going.”Chris Penney
On the other hand, many athletes who were super achievers before their illness fear that they may not be able to continue with their sport once they have a stoma.
“When I first learned I had to undergo a urostomy operation, my first reaction was – will I still be able to ride? If the answer had been no, I’m not sure I would have gone ahead with it. I live for sport and within 3 months of my operation I was back on my horse, Cocky Socks.”Julie Pedder, endurance horse rider who participates in 3-day races of non-stop horseback riding
In any endurance sport, the body needs to be in peak condition. Whether you have a stoma or not alters very little.
Take it easy to start with, and gradually build up your strength and fitness before setting more ambitious goals. Your surgery means that initially you will be less fit than you were before.
Dehydration is a major concern for “super-achievers,” whether they have stomas or not. Drink plenty of fluids at every opportunity to avoid problems with your stoma.
If you would like to talk to someone about a particular sport, contact your Stoma Association. They may be able to put you in touch with someone who currently enjoys your sport and who can give you some practical advice.
What You Need to Know to Better Manage Your Radiation Dermatitis
As a cancer patient undergoing radiation treatment for your condition, you may develop skin issues along the way. These skin issues can be quite painful, but that isn’t the worst of it. Without proper treatment, they can lead to secondary issues and infections that put your health at even greater risk.
It is important for you to know that radiation dermatitis is common for oncology patients undergoing radiation treatment. Nearly 3/4s of all oncology patients will receive some form of radiation therapy, according to OncoLink. Of those, nearly 95 percent will experience radiation dermatitis. Further, 87 percent of these cases will be classified as moderate to severe.
What is Radiation Dermatitis and the Skin Conditions Associated with It?
The term radiation dermatitis refers to skin conditions associated with radiation treatment for various forms of cancer. While all radiation treatments seek to limit exposure of radiation to healthy tissue, and healthy tissue is known to repair itself from limited radiation exposure, the repetitive nature of radiation treatments limits the skin’s self-healing abilities, leaving damaged skin in its wake.
Some of the types of damage associated with radiation dermatitis include:
Localized or patchy reddening of the skin (erythema)
Skin shedding (desquamation)
Skin fibrosis
Dry skin
Itchy skin
Pitting edema
Skin necrosis
Capillary dilation
Radiation dermatitis most commonly occurs in and around folds in the skin. This can include the areas behind the ears, under the arms, under the breast in women, abdominal folds, etc. as Wound Source describes. Wound Source notes that areas where the skin is thinner are also vulnerable. This includes the neck and forehead, among other areas.
The pain and embarrassment associated with radiation dermatitis can have a significantly negative effect on your quality of life, especially when you are already going through so much.
You may have even discontinued or made changes to your radiation therapy in order to avoid additional radiation dermatitis. This is typically not an advised decision as it leaves the cancer free to grow and worsen.
Problems and Solutions for Treating Radiation Dermatitis
Unlike so many other wounds, there are special circumstances regarding radiation dermatitis that limit the treatments that can be used to treat it. The nature of the commonly prescribed wound medications would negate some of the radiation benefits or the skin’s natural attempts to heal itself. For instance, antimicrobials that are often prescribed to treat wounds, cannot be used to treat radiation dermatitis as they will interfere with the growth of new cells.
Preventative “cheat sheet” measures to minimize the effects of radiation dermatitis include:
Since we know there is a substantial connection between receiving radiation treatment and developing radiation dermatitis between the second and third week of treatment, it is wise for you to take preventative measures to prevent, or at the very least, minimize the effect radiation dermatitis is likely to have on you, like these:
Wearing loose fitting clothing made of breathable fabrics.
Avoiding potential skin irritants such as ice packs, hot water battles, and heating pads.
Discontinuing the use of soaps and body washes that have heavy fragrances or harsh chemicals.
Avoiding rubbing your skin.
Skipping antibacterial soaps, scrubs, and hand sanitizers.
Applying sun protection liberally. Only wearing approved sunscreen products, however, and limit skin exposure to the sun.
Using only wound dressings without adhesives.
Consulting with your physician about oral and topical medications for treating the affected areas of skin and antibiotics for any skin that may be infected.
Viniferamine® Small Molecule Technology for Radiation Dermatitis
Radiation dermatitis can also be managed using Viniferamine® Small Molecule Technology and help you to restore your skin for many months following your radiation treatment. Viniferamine ® At Home™ products is specifically designed for you to apply at home.
The benefits of Viniferamine® skin care products include that they:
Enhance skin repair.
Improve the skin’s barrier function.
Combat oxidative stress.
Fight inflammation.
Are non-irritating and non-sensitizing.
Contain small molecular skin nutrients.
Include antioxidants, amino acids, and vitamins.
Contain certified organic and pharmaceutical-grade ingredients.
Viniferamine® skin care products, along with a consistent care regimen, can help you manage radiation dermatitis. Shop for these Viniferamine® skin care products by clicking here.
Presence and quantity of obesity-related skin folds
Talk to your physician about how these factors impact your development of radiation dermatitis, and its severity.
Radiation Dermatitis Treatment Checklist
In order to reduce the severity of your personal symptoms of radiation dermatitis, it’s a good idea to do the following in the days and weeks leading up to your first radiation treatments.
For your convenience, here is your checklist for steps that you can take to reduce the pain and alleviate many of the symptoms associated with radiation dermatitis.
Be prepared for radiation dermatitis before treatment begins.
Have the right products on hand to offer effective treatment for radiation dermatitis, like the Viniferamine® At Home Radiation Skin Care Kit.
Change your diet to one that is nutrient rich and will help get the right nutrients to help boost the skin’s ability to repair itself.
Stop smoking.
Try to take off some weight or tone muscles if you are obese or have skin folds that are attractive locations for radiation dermatitis.
Use pH balanced soaps and cleansers.
Be proactive by pampering your skin using appropriate soaps and lotions before wounds appear.
Avoid sun exposure whenever possible with the use of appropriate clothing, hats, and sunscreen.
Wear comfortable, loose fitting clothing in breathable materials that will not rub against the skin.
Avoid rubbing and scratching your skin.
The bulk of care for radiation dermatitis will happen at home. Be prepared for that and ask questions of your physician or attending nurse before receiving radiation therapy so that you feel confident you understand the risks and can take steps to reduce and repair the damage radiation treatments cause to your skin.
FAQs / SAQs – Frequently and Should Ask Questions
These are questions that are commonly asked of physicians, and that you should consider asking your doctor before your radiation begins in order to take early steps to reduce some of the pain and potential embarrassment of severe radiation dermatitis.
What steps can I take to prevent radiation dermatitis?
The honest answer is that it is so prevalent among radiation therapy patients that preventing it is largely unlikely currently– at least by the time you know you need it.
Genetics, obesity, smoking, and skin exposure to the sun are all long-term factors that can impact the severity of the radiation dermatitis you are likely to experience though. The checklist above can help as well.
Is the risk of radiation dermatitis worth going through radiation therapy?
Radiation therapy is never ordered lightly. If your physician orders radiation therapy, he or she feels it is the most practical and effective treatment option available to you. That being said, it is always wise to consider your options and weigh the pros and cons of each when treating against something as serious as cancer.
Are there illnesses and diseases that might increase my risk of RD?
There are several conditions that may make you more susceptible to radiation dermatitis, including diabetes mellitus, genetic disorders affecting the DNA of the epidermis, diseases like HIV, connective tissue diseases, and chromosomal breakage syndromes, among others.
Here at MEDICAL MONKS, we understand that radiation dermatitis can be both physically and emotionally painful for you. We believe that offering educational information about what radiation dermatitis is and solutions for treating it may help reduce any concerns you have about it. We are here to help with any concerns about radiation dermatitis condition and how Viniferamine can help, so be sure to visit our website at Medical Monks or call us at 844-859-9400.
About the Author – The Product Specialists of Medical Monks contributed this article. Medical Monks is medical supply retailer serving consumers and businesses across the United States. Reach our Specialists at customercare@medicalmonks.com.
Urinary incontinence is a condition characterized by the loss of bladder control. It’s not a disease in itself but a symptom. It can be a temporary condition or persistent one, depending on the cause. Urinary incontinence can happen as a result of one’s diet, underlying medical condition, or physical problems.
Millions of American adults have urinary incontinence. While it’s common for women over the age of 50, it can happen to anyone including the younger population.
Different Types of Urinary Incontinence
Urinary incontinence can be categorized into three: stress, urge, and overflow. It’s possible to have more than one or all of the types of urinary incontinence.
Stress incontinence
Stress incontinence happens as a result of physical activity or body movement. Activities or movements caused by coughing, sneezing, laughing, or heavy lifting can put pressure on the bladder leading to temporary urinary incontinence.
Stress incontinence is more common among women than men. Despite its name, it isn’t related to psychological stress.
Urge incontinence
Urge incontinence happens when a person has a strong urge to urinate. It is usually caused by abnormal contractions of the bladder.
Normally, it’s the sphincters that control the flow of the urine. But what happens to people with urge incontinence is that their bladder contracts force that is strong enough to override the sphincter muscles of the urethra.
There are several reasons that lead to abnormal contractions of the bladder. This can be due to damaged bladder as a result of a disease like diabetes, multiple sclerosis, spinal cord damage, or irritated bladder.
Overflow incontinence
Overflow incontinence occurs when the bladder doesn’t empty properly. As a result, it leaks out. There are several reasons why this happens. It may be due to a nerve or muscle damage which can be caused by multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, or spina bifida.
In some cases, overflow incontinence may be the result of obstruction which makes it difficult to empty the bladder. The obstruction can be due to an enlarged prostate, kidney stones, or urethral stricture.
Causes of Urinary Incontinence
There are several causes of urinary incontinence. Some of these causes may only result to temporary condition while there are also those that lead to persistent and more serious cases of urinary incontinence.
Temporary Causes
Many cases of temporary incontinence are attributed to lifestyle choices like diet. Alcoholic and caffeinated beverages can result to temporary incontinence as these drinks lead to temporary loss of bladder control.
Other causes of temporary incontinence include medications like those for hypertension, sedation, heart diseases, and for muscle relaxation. Constipation and urinary tract infection can also lead to this urinary problem.
Aging
Urinary incontinence can result from age-related changes to the lower urinary tract. Some of these changes include reduction in bladder capacity, decreased urinary flow rate, and uninhibited contractions. Coupled with chronic diseases, the risk for urinary incontinence increases with age.
Damage to the Pelvic Floor Muscles
Since pelvic floor muscles support the bladder, any condition that leads to damage of the pelvic floor muscles can lead to urinary incontinence. Surgery and childbirth can lead to weak or damaged pelvic floor muscles.
Enlargement of the Prostate
Enlargement of the prostate is one of the common causes of urinary incontinence among men. When the prostate enlarges, it can squeeze the urethra and in return, affects the flow of the urinary stream. A condition called benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) can lead to prostate enlargement.
Cancer
Some cancer types can lead to urinary incontinence. These include prostate cancer among men and bladder cancer for both men and women. Urinary incontinence can also be a side effect of cancer treatments.
Managing Urinary Incontinence
There’s nothing to be embarrassed about having urinary incontinence as there are several approaches for managing it. Some of the ways that can help you manage your urinary incontinence include:
Use of absorbent products
Absorbent products like pads can be a great use for people with urinary incontinence. Pads or garments that are meant to absorb urine and protect the skin and clothing can be highly beneficial for those who have persistent incontinence despite treatments and medications. These products can also work great as temporary solution for patients who are awaiting surgery or waiting for definitive treatment for their urinary incontinence.
When using absorbent products, proper skin care and use of these products are encouraged to prevent skin breakdown and infections.
Use of catheters
The use of catheters is often part of anti-incontinence therapy. It can serve as a temporary or permanent solution for overflow incontinence. It can help patients improve their bladder capacity and the voluntary detrusor pressure.
Self-catheterization is often advised to patients who can perform it.For those who can’t, an alternative solution is the use of indwelling Foley catheter.
Proper management of indwelling catheters should be observed including changing it at least once per month to prevent infection.
Undergo pelvic floor rehabilitation
Pelvic floor rehabilitation which include pelvic floor exercises like Kegel exercise is shown to help improve the pelvic muscle tone and strength. This is an effective and a noninvasive solution for those with mild stress urinary incontinence.
Pelvic floor exercises involve lifting the levator ani muscles as if you’re controlling your urination or defecation with less contraction of your muscles in your abdomen, buttocks, or inner thighs.
Lose weight
Obesity is a risk factor in the development of urinary incontinence. Hence, losing weight may help improve your condition.
In a study involving overweight and obese women, it shows that those who have lost weight experience a reduction in weekly urinary incontinence episodes by 47%.
Change your diet
Because certain foods can trigger urinary frequency and incontinence, avoiding these foods can help in alleviating the urinary incontinence symptoms. Some of the foods and drinks to avoid include stimulants like caffeine, alcohol, spicy food, and citrus fruits. Avoiding these food and drinks may not totally eliminate the urinary incontinence symptoms but they can, at least, reduce it.
In contrast to what other people believed, drinking sufficient amount of fluids is still considered important even if you have urinary incontinence. Sufficient fluid intake can prevent infection, kidney stones, and constipation – all of which contribute to urinary incontinence.
Having urinary problem like incontinence can be difficult but with the help of certain products, treatments, and lifestyle changes, it can be managed.
About the Author – The Product Specialists at Medical Monks contributed this article. Medical Monks is medical supply retailer serving consumers and businesses across the United States. Reach our Specialists at customercare@medicalmonks.com.
