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Irritated around stoma- call the ostomy nurse?

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Posted 9/19/2017 1:30 PM (GMT 0)
Not sure if this is normal or if I should give the nurse a call. I changed the bag today and noticed it's really red- a centimeter or two around he sits, which was red and irritated. It burns sometimes and was itchy the other day so I kind of knew something was up.

The question is, do I cal the nurse and just give her the info? She's been so nice and said to call if I have any questions. I did take a picture so I can always offer to send that to her. I guess I just don't want it getting worse within the next few days before my next bag change.

I do know some irritation is normal and I don't think she'll be able to do anything for me. Suggestions?
Posted 9/19/2017 2:26 PM (GMT 0)
Is it raising/bubbling up? Might be a yeast infection. Prednisone elevates your risk in getting a yeast infection.
Posted 9/19/2017 2:47 PM (GMT 0)
No raising or bubbling, just red and sore.
Posted 9/19/2017 10:11 PM (GMT 0)
Did you have a leak at all or was that area dry? Just red and irritated? Even if it seems minor the ostomy nurses usually have good tips to help heal skin.

Do you have any stoma powder or barrier wipes?
Posted 9/19/2017 11:20 PM (GMT 0)
Hi, try tincture of Benzoin. I put it on a q-tip and apply it to wherever it's red around your stoma. I sometimes get irritated around the stoma too. This works like a charm. Also, do you use Eakins seals? I place them on my bag and then apply my bag with the seal around the stoma. Good luck
Posted 9/20/2017 5:48 PM (GMT 0)
Not sure where to get the Benzoin? Is it at the drug store?

My nurse was weary about putting anything on it. She suggested to change it every 2-3 days so that I can put more powder on it, which will accelerate healing.

No leaks per say, just irritated bc my stoma opening is at he bottom so it's just excreting stool and getting caught there. She said it's the life of having a loop. So that makes me think it'll just be irritated like this until the reversal. She also gave me a new bag with moldable wafer, so we'll see if that helps.

Good news is I have my X-ray/test in two weeks so we can get the reversal scheduled! My wedding is at 8 weeks post-op so she didn't want me to have to worry about doing the test that week given how busy I'll be.
Posted 9/20/2017 6:05 PM (GMT 0)
Listen to Christine1946. Apply a coating of tincture of benzoin, blow dry, then install your appliance. Tincture of benzoin is available at your pharmacy without a prescription. If you look it up on Wikipedia you will find that it's an antiseptic liquid that they used to use for soldiers with jungle rot on their feet. That may be a stretch of its actual use.
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