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first skin problem-need advice

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Posted 7/25/2009 5:39 PM (GMT 0)
I've had my ileostomy for 5 months without a skin problem. Wed am I went to change my new image 2 piece and there was some stool under the barrier, skin was a little red and itchy. Put stoma powder on it and the barrier. Today, I peeled off the barrier and a whole new section of skin looked as if it had ripped off! I do remember "scratching" this area through the barrier. The other area was healed. Well, I caked on the stoma powder and put on a new barrier. What else should I do? And what do you think caused this?
Posted 7/25/2009 7:25 PM (GMT 0)
Sammies,

I have also had a few minor skin issues, like the ones you are having (red, itchy irritated skin).

The things that made it go away for me was using a skin barrier wipe every time I changed the wafer (the powder did not help me). The skin barrier wipe leaves a clear coating over the sore spots, so they can heal, but it does sting a bit when you put it on the sore spots. Also, the wafer will not stick as long (I got 2-3 days of wear time vs. 4-5 without the barrier wipe, but it was worth it to heal my skin). My red, sore skin went away in a few weeks after using these. Then I stopped using the barrier wipes when it healed.

Also, one cause of red, itchy skin can be from a yeast infection (you can get these on your skin around the stoma). My GP gave me difflucan (the pill you can take for vaginal yeast infections) and this also seemed to help.

Hope you find something that works for you!

-E
Posted 7/25/2009 9:21 PM (GMT 0)
I hate when that happens, too. Each and everytime I change the wafer, I get in the shower and let the warm water run over the stoma.While showering I try to make sure all of the pasty stuff is rubbed off the skin around the stoma. After showering I dry thoroughly and ALWAYS use a barrier wipe. Next, comes the eakin seal which I believe has saved me from a lot of skin irratations. I am not sure this has anything to do with it, but I also use a blow dryer on warm whenever I finish changing the wafer to help dry any moisture that may still be on the skin.

If it is really bad, using medication for yeast might be needed.

I guess everyone must experiment with several methods before they can be sure what works. I hope you find something what works, too!!
Posted 7/28/2009 12:57 AM (GMT 0)
has your stomach shape changed since you were fitted with your appliance? That can cause the wafer to lift in one spot and cause skin issues.

I use an Eakin Seal which helps with any skin issues I might get...they tend to cover the area and keep it protected.
Posted 7/28/2009 6:12 AM (GMT 0)
The eakin seal has helped me a lot. I am curious, what kind / brand of barrier wipes does everyone prefer??
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