This topic is about dealing with inflamed peristomal skin, which can become red, sore, and irritated, especially after experiencing leaks. The person sharing their experience is looking for advice on how to manage these issues and calm their skin. Here are some helpful insights and advice:
1. Seek Professional Help
- It's important to consult with a healthcare professional, like a Wound, Ostomy, and Continence Nurse (WOCN). Taking photos of the affected area can be useful for your appointment.
- You can also reach out to Hollister’s toll-free nurse line for immediate advice and sample requests.
2. Control Leakage
- Frequent leaks can worsen skin irritation, so consider temporarily shortening the wear time of your appliance.
- Check the fit of your appliance. You might need a deeper convexity or a different brand. Options include Coloplast, ConvaTec, or Marlen.
- Use additional security strips, like Hollister’s “C” strips or Sensura Mio adhesive strips, for a better seal.
3. Use Stoma Powder Correctly
- Lightly dust the irritated skin with stoma powder, tap off the excess, dab with a skin-prep wipe, let it dry, and then apply the wafer. A video demonstration can be found online for guidance.
4. Clean-Up and Wafer Removal
- When removing the wafer, push the skin away from it rather than pulling it off.
- Use adhesive-remover sprays or wipes to minimize skin trauma, and rinse off any residue with water.
5. Skin-Care Products
- Nystatin cream or powder can help with yeast-type irritation, but it requires a prescription.
- For moisturizing, consider O’Keeffe’s Working Hands cream or Sween Cream.
- Cavilon No-Sting Barrier Film offers extra protection.
- For wet rashes, some use Head & Shoulders Classic shampoo, Butt Paste diaper-rash cream, and Hollister Karaya 5 powder.
- Stomahesive powder is an alternative to Karaya 5.
- Skin-Tac adhesive wipes can improve wafer adhesion.
- Some use mild medicated ointments or Pepto-Bismol, but be cautious with routine use on healthy skin.
6. Try Different Appliances
- Experiment with different barrier rings and wafers to find what works best for you. Request samples from companies like Coloplast, Hollister, ConvaTec, or Marlen.
7. General Skin-Care Habits
- Keep the area hair-free and dry it thoroughly, possibly using a hair-dryer on a low setting.
- Sweat can affect wafer adhesion, so consider using extra barrier strips or reducing wear time.
- A water and vinegar rinse or plain warm water can help maintain pH balance.
- Some find a minimalist approach effective, while others benefit from layering products. Document your routine and take photos to track changes.
8. Community Reassurance
- Many people experience redness after leaks, but early intervention can help the skin return to normal.
- Improvement is often seen after a few days without leaks and using techniques like Nystatin-crusting. Keep monitoring and adjusting your routine as needed.
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