Define Bariatric Diapers
Bariatric diapers are adult-sized diapers that are used for people after bariatric surgery. Bariatric surgery is a medical procedure through which the stomach and large intestine are re-sized so that an individual eats a smaller amount of food. After bariatric surgery, some people experience uncontrollable bowel movements. Because bariatric surgery is often (though not always) performed on adults, bariatic diapers are used to prevent accidents post-surgery.
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Bariatric Surgery
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Bariatric surgery is also known as gastric bypass surgery. It is called this because the surgery involves the creation of a pocket at the top of the stomach that is connected to the small intestine. Connecting the pocket to the small intestine makes the food bypass the rest of the stomach, which means that a person can eat only a very small amount of food. This reduction in the size of the stomach contributes to a significant amount of weight loss, but there are also a number of side effects to the surgery.
Dumping Syndrome
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One side effect of bariatric surgery is known as 'dumping syndrome.' According to MayoClinic.com, dumping syndrome can occur after any surgery in which a portion of the stomach is removed or bypassed. Dumping syndrome happens when the food quickly slips from the stomach into the smaller intestine. This can cause nausea, sweating and, most commonly, diarrhea. Because dumping syndrome often happens after bariatric surgery, bariatric diapers were created. Many people who experience dumping syndrome have a reduction in physical activity or other negative lifestyle changes due to the embarrassment associated with the syndrome. However, bariatric diapers can help a person who has just had the surgery continue their physical activities and lifestyle without the fear of an accident.
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Brands
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According to CarePathways.com, there are a number of popular and well known brands of bariatric diapers. TENA makes a bariatric brief for adults. ATTENDS makes adult bariatric briefs as well as briefs for young adults and adults who need petite-sized protection.
Places to Buy
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Bariatric diapers can be purchased at a variety of online retailers including: www.carepathways.com, www.yourdiaper.com, and www.personallydelivered.com. In addition, many pharmacies and stores that focus on elder care and health needs also sell bariatric diapers.
Alternative Styles
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In addition to regular bariatric diapers, many companies produce bariatric diapers for various activities. For example, www.personallydelivered.com offers a bariatric brief that can be worn while swimming, and www.idiaper.com has a number of overnight bariatric briefs for adults and young adults.
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