This topic is about dealing with persistent itching under an ileostomy appliance. The person experiencing this issue is curious if others have faced similar problems and is seeking advice on how to manage it. Here are some helpful insights and suggestions:

- The itching might be caused by yeast or fungal growth, which can thrive in the warm and moist environment under the wafer.

- For cleansing, consider these options:
- Use Head and Shoulders dandruff shampoo, which contains antifungal zinc pyrithione, to wash the peri-stomal skin during appliance changes.
- Some people find that avoiding all soaps and using other antifungal treatments works better.

- Antifungal treatments that might help include:
- Over-the-counter liquid spray for Athlete’s Foot. Spray it liberally after removing the appliance and let it air-dry completely.
- Apply Nystatin liquid over the dried antifungal spray to help control moisture.
- Flonase (fluticasone nasal spray) can be spritzed on the skin as an anti-inflammatory and anti-itch measure. Allow it to dry thoroughly, using a small fan or hair-dryer, before applying a new wafer.

- To prevent itching, follow this barrier-change routine:
1. Remove the old barrier, spray antifungal, and let it air-dry.
2. Apply Nystatin liquid and dry with a hair-dryer.
3. Shave if needed, pat with a damp paper towel to remove residue, and dry again.
4. Dust with ostomy powder, use skin-protectant wipes, and dry finally.
5. Attach a new barrier (with a pre-attached ring) only when the skin is completely dry, as moisture encourages fungus.

- For moisture-absorbing and healing, try:
- Boudreaux's Butt Paste, a baby diaper-rash zinc oxide ointment. Apply it for about 10 minutes on clean skin, then wipe off before placing the wafer. Users report relief from yeast and itch within 1–2 days, especially in humid or summer conditions.

- If the skin is damaged or weepy from scratching:
- Trim away the adhesive “bandage” portion of the wafer over the affected areas so they can dry out while the ring still seals the stoma opening. Re-cover these areas once healed at the next change.

- Equipment tips:
- Ensure the entire area is completely dry (using a hair-dryer or fan) before adhering a new appliance.
- Keep supplies organized and pre-cut to minimize the time the skin is exposed.