This topic is about dealing with a rash and a small sore on the stoma, which appeared six weeks after ostomy surgery. The person experiencing this issue is seeking advice on how to heal the area and wear the pouch comfortably. Here are some helpful insights and advice shared by others:

1. Take photos of the sore while it is visible. Even if it improves before your appointment, having photos can help the nurse identify the cause and suggest future treatment.

2. Check if the sore is infected by looking for signs like swelling, warmth, or pus. A single red spot without these signs is likely not fungal.

3. Irritation from leakage is common. Try to limit contact between fecal matter and unprotected skin, and ensure the seal is tight.

4. Consider using moldable barriers from brands like Hollister or ConvaTec. Many people find these offer better protection for exposed skin compared to cut-to-fit wafers.

5. If the rash matches the size and shape of the wafer, it might be contact dermatitis, which is an allergic reaction to the barrier or tape.

6. To manage a rash caused by leakage, dust antifungal powder or apply a skin prep under the wafer.

7. Some people find quicker relief using over-the-counter athlete’s-foot powder instead of standard stoma powder.

8. For persistent or unusual skin problems around the stoma, an experienced ostomy or wound-care nurse is often more helpful than a general dermatologist, who may not be familiar with stoma-specific issues.

9. A comprehensive pictorial reference on stoma skin complications can be useful to match what you see to known conditions and guide discussions with healthcare providers.