Switching from Eakin to Brava Seals Due to Skin Irritation

I've never been keen on Eakin barriers myself. I was using them 30 years ago when the company Eakin made them themselves in Ireland. Then another ostomy company took over making them, and now a third ostomy company is relaunching them yet again a few years ago.

@Kas- Okey dokey.

Meanwhile in Jersey, after a stoma nurse saw the skin around the stoma and said, "That's bad." 🤦‍♂️...

No 💩!!

We discussed the possibility of biologicals as a culprit.

"Indeed," she said, saying she's seen this occur from those meds.

She used those adhesive wipes to rip off my existing appliance, and when I say ripped, I mean "WTF!!!"

I am assured now my spray adhesive is 100 times better than those freaking wipes.

No one will ever tell me wipes are better.

The stoma behaved well. She measured it at 38 mm or 1 inch 3/8 diameter, which I had previously mentioned to her.

She advised against the Domeboro, saying it's not designed for healing irrigated skin. I caught something she said about "vinegar in it." Ah, that explains the freaking burning sensation!!!

She can't say for sure biologicals were at fault but countered that Eakin rings do cause this. Nystatin is offered, and she sprinkled that on, then wiped it off, applying protective seal spray.

She also could not offer any dietary input such as drinks for dehydration. She did say those large bottles of H2O are full of electrolytes. Hmm. There was no stoma dietician at this hospital. She suggested going online.

So here is a stoma nurse not versed in dietary needs, which surprised me.

Prognosis? 2 weeks on the Nystatin. Call her. If not improvement, gotta look at those biologicals.

My take on this visit?

Domeboro helped. She is a very experienced nurse, more on the mechanical end though. Said to stay with the Coloplast line of products. "Good stuff."

She placed the Brava seal on my skin and asked me if I wanted to finish. Yup. I did so. Added the extender strips and belt and left, saying thanks, will call ya in 2 weeks.

So, ground zero here. Shooting for a min of 4 days wear time.

(Several hours later)...

Oh snap! Epic fail. Blow out on the bottom of the appliance. S.O.B!!

Had a feeling the nurse applied the barrier to the skin first, too quickly after the protective spray - never put the ring on the skin first. I attach it to the flange with the bag and install it as an assembly.

No heat was used in this appliance change - that means no armpits or hair dryer.

Stone cold installed, not reliable at all.

💩

Then Walgreens pharmacy won't fill the prescription. Huh?

"Use as directed" will not be accepted. Directions must be written out. So, 8 PM, try to get the doctor to call in the script... on a Friday night... 8 PM? 😂🤣😂🤣😆😂🤣😆😆 No Nystatin yet.

Back to ground zero.

Don’t give up on the adhesive remover wipes too soon — after all you are a Warrior. 😊 The wipes are quite effective when used correctly. I for the longest was a great fan of the spray adhesive remover. As I was constantly trying different appliance/accessory combination samples, the mfg. always provided adhesive remover wipes. I am not adverse to trying different things so I would give them a try. I began liking wipes better than spray. You wipe at an edge to get a place to begin lifting the adhesive. Begin to wipe underneath the adhesive as you continue to lift up while simultaneously pressing down on your skin while wiping. I am now able to remove my appliance w/o pain while using only two adhesive remover wipes — one to remove the adhesive and a second to remove any residual adhesive. It may take you a couple of appliance changes to get your technique perfected but it is worth the effort. I use “Esenta Adhesive Removal Wipes”.   
 
Although I have a colostomy my output is liquid if I don’t slow down the motility using loperamide and bulk it up using bananas. I do have to deal with dehydration. I used to use Gatorlyte for rehydration and it worked well. I did stop using it because I needed a cheaper recurring cost. The World Health Organization (WHO) has a formulation for rehydration that I now use. You can make it yourself or purchase it in pre-formulated packets. For convenience, I purchase it in pre-formulated packets — I purchase 100 packets. The packet ingredients are to be dissolved in one liter of clean water. I use the TRIORAL Oral Rehydration Salts.

https://www.triselfcare.com/collections/vendors?q=TRIORAL&sort_by=best-selling

I also purchase a bottle of Kool-aid Sugar-free water enhancer — the enhancer is added to the mixture to improve the taste. 😉

That's all good advice, man.

The less I use my impregnated thumbs, the better. The spray is amazing. I just watch the entire appliance fall off.

Nurses use alcohol wipes when they remove the i.v. port from

your vein. If you're lucky, I mean. Ha ha.

I bring my spray to hospitals and pretreat band aid sites and i.v. ports.

I order the spray cans 10 a month for a discount under 10 bucks each. I can use 1 full can each appliance change because of using those extenders.

No ouches were ever felt in this process, and one might say it's a hands-free process. It's really easy for me.

I recall you had some hand or finger issues. You don't have those issues anymore?

My Ostomy Journey: Kimberly | Hollister

I do have severe nerve damage in both hands due to neck injury. Using a full can would work. It actually hurts more to press the top of the can than to wipe. With 1 wipe, I can remove extenders and barrier. Happy the can works for you. Now get your skin healed.

Yes, that button on the can... it hurts pushing down for sure. I guess I'm a lazy warrior. If there's poop in the bag, the weight of it pulls off the bag very easily. Thumbs are the worst place for arthritis.

Sting is still an issue. Bled yesterday. The Domeboro stings due to an opened shin caused by dryness. This really blows. I'm getting a minimum of a day's bag wear due to poor adhesion. The bloody nurse messed up on the script. So no treatment other than air dry and Domeboro.

Many said that helps. The nurse says don't use it. At this point, I'm asking myself, "What does she know?" I'm glad I got enough supplies though. It would be a horror not having that stock.

Oh... re: hydration.

Hmm, I'm an analyst warrior... or worrier... sugar, salt, potassium... all very much needed because we are colon-less.

These drinks with electrolytes... ugh...

I'm concerned about what a normal person's levels are to keep hydrated as opposed to those of us without colons.

There should be a spec... you know what I mean? Because how do you know if you're overdoing too much of each?

Recently found out the sodium in these drinks is over 400 mg! And everything I ate tasted salty. Seriously stopped those drinks.

This oral solution you mentioned is for the normal folks' specs.

Not us. Or did I miss something?

Oh warrior. That's terrible you had the blowout. When my skin was irritated, my stoma nurse, who's at Cleveland Clinic, actually told me to do Domboro. I then put a Cavilon barrier film on and a Hollister Cera ring onto the flange.

The Cera ring has stuff in it to heal skin. It has ceramide in it. I use them regularly now.

I highly doubt your biologicals are causing it as the Eakins have been well known to cause irritation since the formula change. I'm on a biological, and I think if that was the case, it would not only be in your stoma area.

If I put one on within 5 minutes, I will be itchy and burning. Those Eakins are horrible!!

Is your irritation only where the ring was, or is it in the whole flange area? Have you been wearing these Coloplast bags for long, or is it something new you're trying? They also sell Hollyhesive 4x4 skin barriers that you can put on before applying your bag. Hollyhesive by Hollister 4x4 skin barriers, and it helps heal as well. Just another idea for you. You'd have to cut your hole in the 4x4 though.

Also, for some reason, I always washed the area with Dial white soap and rinsed well after my Domboro soak because I was afraid of my bag not sticking. Maybe get into the shower without your bag just to get off any irritating leftover residue from those Eakin rings that may still be lingering.

Yes, only where the ring is. It looks like a bullseye with a stoma in the middle. I am waiting on a few different rings from Kas, "our member to remember when supplies are needed."

I should have paid more attention to the redness. 🤦‍♂️🤦‍♂️

Yep, the Coloplast bags and Mio click. Several years now. Amazing, that five-finger flange. So freaking smart.

Good info, thanks. I will continue the soaks since my nurse seems textbook, not street stoma smart.

It's definitely the leaking if it's ring-shaped. They should outlaw those damn things! You've been wearing the same bags for a while, so it's doubtful it's that, although it could happen.

Glad Kas is coming to the rescue. Seriously, try the Hollister Cera rings as I said; the ceramide will help heal.

PS: Thanks for the laugh about the nurse not being street stoma smart. I needed a good laugh.

Always good for a laugh or two from Garden State.

I'm Domeboro soaking right now. The nurse said I'm prolapsed. So I'm thinking, what exactly qualifies in length to be deemed prolapsed? I'm out about an inch.

19 mm...is the standard quo. That's 3/4 of an inch.

Really doubting what this stoma nurse tells me.

Skin color does look better now. Only getting 1 day's wear and then some seepage. Not a blowout...not stinging. So, baby steps. And still no script for that Nystatin.

I think our peeps pass on good advice here. Always a plus knowing answers before seeing a doctor or nurse.

TMI. We didn't need to know you're bigger than normal. Might help finding a lady though. 😁 Go get 'em, tiger 🐅.

Oh behave!!

😂Yes Warrior, Oral Rehydration Solutions (ORS) can be used for individuals with an ostomy, particularly for those experiencing high ostomy output. ORS helps replace fluids and electrolytes lost in stool, which is crucial for preventing dehydration and maintaining proper hydration levels. It’s recommended to sip ORS throughout the day.
 
An oral rehydration solution (ORS) is a special kind of drink made for when you have too much diarrhea and/or high ostomy output. ORS is not a sports drink. It contains mostly water with a mix of salt and sugar balanced in the right amounts to help your body absorb sodium and fluid. To be effective the content should be at least 1100 mg of sodium (equal to ½ teaspoon of salt) per liter.   
 
There are three types of beverages:  

•    High concentration: Hyperosmolar (juices, regular soda, sweetened tea, lemonade, punch, sugary coffee drinks, milkshakes, smoothies, etc.).

•    Low concentration: Hypo-osmolar (water, sugar free drinks, diet soda, plain tea, plain coffee, coconut water).

•    Balanced concentration: Iso-osmolar (ORS).    

•    Each type has a different effect on the bowel. The iso-osmolar beverage contains sodium, potassium and glucose in the same concentration of the fluids surrounding the intestines — same amount of electrolytes, such as sodium potassium, and sugar as your blood. They are easily absorbed and help replace fluids and electrolytes lost in your stool.  

Sports drinks alone such as Gatorade are not good options to replenish fluid and electrolytes. They do not contain the correct amounts of ingredients for proper rehydration.

Some Of The Preferred Commercial ORS Products On The Market Include:  
• CeraLyte 70 or CeraLyte 90
• Drip Drop
• EquaLyte
• Hydralyte Electrolyte Oral Solution  
• Liquid IV Hydration  
• Parent’s Choice Pediatric Electrolyte
• Pedialyte  
• Rehydralyte  
• Trioral (Reduced Osmolarity ORS)  
• WHO packets — Jianas Brother  
 
Check out the following link:

https://www.ostomycanada.ca/blog/2024/ostomy-hydration/

What is the title of the book? Struggling hard caring for my wife's ileostomy; the skin around the stoma is severely inflamed. Thanks.

How is it going warrior? Are you seeing any healing process yet? 

Hello, the book is: Abdominal Stomas and Their Skin Disorders.

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It's a comprehensive guide to the identification and treatment of peristomal skin issues.

I bought it on Amazon.

Good hydration drinks also help alleviate hangovers, like Gatorlyte and Pedialyte.

Morning. I'm 2 days wearing the same appliance. It is holding, which means the previous prep was done correctly. I took off work Monday. Exhausted at a 3:30 a.m. change, only to replace it again at 7 a.m.

At 7, I left it exposed to air for an hour after washing the area.

It was still tender and red.

I used my last barrier ring and flange Monday. Worked Tuesday and am at work now, checking for a breach...none, but I'm waiting. It will blow. I have good adhesion right now. The problem is...at the 11th hour today. No supplies.

The stoma nurse gave me Convatec brand one piece, cut to fit. So I got that as a backup...last resort.

My Good God!! This type is so ridiculously huge!! No wonder everyone complains about bulges and trying to hide it.

It's the size of a school bus compared to a Fiat...geez, I can't even turn it horizontally. A one-piece like this is good for an emergency, but God bless those who use it...like it...not me.

Edge Park supplies should arrive soon. Kas sent me supplies too. The clock is ticking.

Haven't seen my stoma in 2 days. Can't afford to remove it unnecessarily right now to take a peek.

No leaks. The barrier ring appears a bit squished, which is common with a barrier belt. Likely a breach. And change. Soon.

Oh, the Nystatin came as per the ostomy nurse directed. Gonna try that...then a Cera or Brava ring and keep fingers crossed.

No pain but anxiously waiting for the inevitable. 🤔

The weasel says hello and good luck. She has her paws crossed for you; I just cross my fingers.

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The Nyostate sounds like maybe a Nystatin powder? I've gotten that before, but be careful, as it's a powder you might not get a great seal.

It sounds like you're a little better though, as you are not in pain and your bag is holding a bit better.

Lol, on the Convatec feeling big and bulky compared to the Mio. Well, yes, they are but more sturdy. I loved the lightweight feel of the Mio, but the darn Velcro leaks at the bottom and their adhesive was getting to me.

I'm curious to know how it's going with the Nystatin and the Cera ring. Did you totally switch pouches to Convatec as well?

Morning. I have been typing the powder name wrong. You are correct.

Nystatin topical powder

Brand name Dystop..

Used to treat fungal infections of the skin.

Re: the Convatec bag? It's called the Esteem drainable pouch.

19 - 64 mm (3/4 - 2.5 inch)

It has what's called an InvisiClose foam tail. Part number 416976 Convatec brand.

(blows raspberry)😋..not a fan.

It is disgusting to drain and clean.

Way too bulky. Clear bag so you see the stoma and how well it fits. A nice tight seal. You can definitely see that. A big plus.

What you can't see is it breaching. It's a wide flange placed onto the stomach.

Didn't use a ring this time. Used the powder and Convatec's spray barrier film.

I removed it all last night to see the bottom of the flange severely blown out. I sensed a smell too but...wow!! Could not see the breach under the stoma.

So glad I removed it.

Bagless shower. Cleaned area. Applied the powder and one of two CERA rings I got from Kas, to my normal Mio appliance.

(Kas and Edge Parks delivery came at the same time. Yesterday. So like a kid at Christmas...you know how that went!!)

It looks better - the skin around the stoma. Baby steps indeed.

Cera rings really flattened out though. I am concerned about breach. I got my backup supplies. I got a new day using equipment I'm familiar with. And it's Friday! A long week of wait and worry.

The protective spray I use two coatings...allowing it to dry...completely dry. 20 mins or so.

After the 2nd Cera ring - will order more - I'll use stock Brava O rings and stay with Mio Sensura Click 2 piece.

It is my "roll". Ha ha.

I believe the Eakin ring should be banned. Just seems they are more toxic to more people.

Everyone here has great, awesome, giving sound advice.

I will try whatever is/was suggested, but it takes time to use each suggestion, and time to heal. Time to note benefits too.

These folks here know their stuff and how to conquer it.

Happy Friday, peeps. Thanks to all.

Ah yes, the Esteem, I did not like that one either. They are not durable enough. What size rings did you get? I always got the size 2. The slim ones are too flat. Hollister makes just a regular adapt ring too, besides the Cera ring, and they are skin-friendly as well.

I'm glad to hear that you're at least showing some improvement. Sounds like you've got a handle on it now. I've been in that situation many times. It's miserable and worrisome, especially when you have to work.

Yes, Eakin needs to be recalled and reformulated. Many people are suffering unnecessarily.

It's scary. How can you go outside or do anything when your appliance doesn't stick?

I am so grateful for where I am now compared to last weekend.

Yep, the 2-inch ring, but the Cera ring is the "small" size that needed stretching to 38 mm... = 1 3/8 diameter. Not sure how well it will hold up, but road testing now for one day. Seems good so far. (knocks on head).

Yeah, I have to stretch mine too. My stoma is a 7/8 size. Yes, I'm so glad you're in a better position this week. Been there, done that many times. It's a struggle, but thinking it's all over an Eakin ring.

Word play- eakin ring/ freaking ring!

No more!

What happened?

Hi, so far, it seems using the Cera ring and protective spray from last night, the appliance is holding.

I ran out of supplies Wednesday night. Had to use the stoma nurse supplies she gave me which were the Esteem drainable pouch clear 1 piece (of shit).

That helped one day. Blew out and

I found a spare Mio Click—I type I use—and put that on Thursday after showering. I used the Nystop the nurse prescribed, and the skin around the stoma is improving.

I took your suggestions. I want to see first how this works.

Brava, the Nystop, the protective spray by ConvaTec, Mio Click Sensura bag, and flange. All seem to be working.

The skin was red and weeping last weekend. Kas sent supplies and Edge Park sent me my recurring supplies that all came yesterday evening.

So far, looking good. Never again, freakin' Eakin rings. Nope. 😩👎

I am glad something is working so far. I know how frustrating it is when your skin is that way. I had used the Trio Ostomy (the silicone). I had used the gel/paste, but it's made of silicone and it literally burned my skin so badly. I hope your skin heals up quickly.

Progress report for the week of hell-

This day, last week, I was freaked. Upon bag change, I saw weeping skin around the stoma and open sores. Red, inflamed tissue. Was not tender nor itchy.

A ton of advice and suggestions were given here by all the members this past week.

Thank folks.

The kicker? No supplies. Gulp!

Went to the hospital to see a wound care nurse who gave me Convatec supplies..🤮 and nystatin topical powder.

A member here, Kas, sent me supplies and my recurring order from Edge Park all came Thursday.

Glad to report skin tissues are healing. The color of the skin has gone from fire engine red to grape purple. The skin is smooth and healing. Appliance wear time is 3 days for now. The Cera ring does give out on the 3rd day. Not a massive blowout, but you can see it lost its adhesion and leaked.

Procedure: wash- shower bagless. Allow dry time. Add Nystop (nystatin) powder then protective spray. Wait...allow dry time. Attach ring to wafer/flange. Install...but...the stoma, now being prolapsed about 1.5 inches, doesn't deflate quickly.

I'm talking 1.5" protrude. 1.5" round diameter. My stoma is measured at 1 3/8." Normally!!! Try waiting it out... 5.4.3.2.1. to install appliance, eh? Time's up!!

Slapped it on and held it in place, then C strip barrier extenders to seal that all up.

I'm in better shape now thanks to all who offered suggestions with products. Can't overthink the products. Use what you have... take a peek at progress.

Just always remember...to have plenty of stock on hand. Double up if you can.

Ttyl folks.