Cohesive Ring Swelling Around Stoma: Need Advice

Hi,

I'm totally new to this. I put my wafer on with my Hollister bag and noticed after there were some gaps, so I filled in with cohesive ring barrier. This is what the wound care nurse told me to do. Now, though, I noticed the ring has swelled greatly and seems to be stuck around the stoma. I'm worried that when I change my bag, how will I get the barrier ring away from the stoma without it hurting or traumatizing it? Is it okay to use adhesive remover spray right on it? I can't sleep thinking that I messed it up and how will I ever get this sticky mess away from my stoma! Help! I'm only 1 week post-op! Thank you

Most of it will come away with the barrier. I do not think the barrier spray will hurt it. I use wipes.

You'll be okay, they do swell.

You're probably OK, but go see your Stoma Nurse and get some advice.

Regards, IGGIE

I've found that the mucus on the stoma tends to protect it well. I've accidentally sprayed mine multiple times and haven't suffered anything other than a stinging feeling, but not on the stoma, on the surrounding area... hope this helps or even makes sense to you.

My Ostomy Journey: Jearlean | Hollister

Welcome! A barrier ring is supposed to swell to prevent leakage. That's normal. From your explanation, I don't quite understand how you applied the ring. The barrier ring goes first, followed by the base plate. You can also stick the ring to the base plate and then apply it at the same time. You'll notice that the barrier ring will mostly move with the base plate when you remove it. It can't adhere to the stoma (=moist), but it can adhere to the skin, which is normal. I hope this helps ease your worries a little.

You can simply use adhesive remover spray to clean your skin, then rinse with water on a cloth, and pat dry thoroughly before applying the new material.

Hi

It's okay if the ring swells. Mine does this sometimes. Nothing to worry about. It will come away from your skin when the wafer does.

The first time this happened to me, I was concerned too, but there was no problem.

Good morning!

This video from Hollister on YouTube was helpful when we were figuring out how to use these.

Also, if it's the same as what we use, the barrier ring material is flexible, even easily pulled apart before applying. I'm unsure if it's different after use, as it usually goes straight into the disposal bag with the rest of the appliance when changing, so it seems you'd be able to remove it pretty easily, but check with your Ostomy Nurse with any questions.

https://youtu.be/zEfr-Qp0pg4?si=PCoScJlaVlS3LKQN
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My ring swells all the time. It will not hurt the stoma.

As others have said, it will probably pull away with the appliance. Once in a while, I've had some remain, and I just peel it off. It isn't stuck very tightly. If it doesn't peel easily, then adhesive remover will do the trick and won't hurt your stoma.

You're doing great!

So it did come off with the bag. I was having some pain; the skin under where the ring was is red and irritated now. So I cleaned it well and applied powder. This is so hard!

If your skin is irritated and/or raw, you need to apply more than powder alone. The 'crusting' method will create a dry surface for your ring and appliance to stick to. Apply stoma powder, then use a barrier wipe, just gently blotting the surface where you applied the powder. Then repeat: powder, then wipe. Use the powder very sparingly as well, and allow the surface to dry from the wipe before repeating the powder. Then apply your ring and appliance. Hang in there. With some practice, you will be a pro.

Terry

Terry is right about the technique for using the powder.

It seems so complicated in the beginning that you think you'll never get it. But it becomes second nature after a while. Practice makes perfect!

It will peel off when you remove your barrier. It's called turtle necking.