Red Itchy Skin Around Flange Adhesive - Advice Needed

Anyone experienced red itchy skin around the adhesive of your flange?

The skin is also dry and flaky. 

Suggestions and help appreciated!

Good morning, Stephanie.

Welcome to the joint.

Good to have you.

I have read your previous posts and understand you do see a stoma nurse. You should ask her by way of seeing it and for recommendations.

This topic has been addressed, so using the icons above could help a bit, but guessing at what could be the trouble?

1- Irritated skin from exposure to poop, as you have mentioned before.

2- Allergic reaction to adhesives used in the flange and extenders you mentioned you used.

I suffer from that red, inflamed skin around the stoma too. But it's not itchy, flaky, or bothersome.

It does affect appliance life, though. I get 3 days' wear time. Used to get 5, but I'm learning still after 8 years with an ileo that changes are better than longer wear time.

Showering without the appliance helps.

I was told of a variety of topical creams and sprays to use too.

You mentioned you do use protectant and a sealer.

I don't, which is likely my problem.

Giving your stoma skin some air time - without the appliance on - helps the skin heal.

I began using a moisturizer, which is a big no-no since it leaves residue, but I clean the area very well after using it and notice less redness after 3 changes.

It may not work for everyone. It works for me.

See your nurse for an accurate diagnosis. And hear what others have to say here and question your nurse.

Good luck. Sit tight. Answers coming. Just my 2 cents.

Thank you Warrior I found that the one day I didn't use the adhesive remover was when I got sores around the edge of my protective barriers!  Cleaned it real well and let it dry (which is important too!) and now it's just about gone!!

You could be allergic to the " tape" or any other part of the ostomy equipment. Or, as in my case, I didn't use the adhesive remover wiping pads to thoroughly clean and clear the area first. Then I take some wet pads or washcloth and wipe that off and let it dry thoroughly. Skin is so much better now. However the itchiness you describe sounds like an allergy. Call your supplier and see if they have hypo allergenic ones. Hope this helps. 

Hi SS,

Make sure I'm getting this right... is the irritation where the barrier adhesive stops, or is it just where the barrier adhesive touches your skin? It makes a big difference.

;O)

Words of Encouragement from Ostomy Advocates I Hollister

Don't wear your belt really tight.

Don't wear your belt so tight.

I am allergic to friggin everything.

When my pouch even touches my thighs, rash.

The best remedy for me is naked showers and air time.