This topic is about dealing with severe skin irritation around a new ileostomy, which is causing leaks and frequent changes of the ostomy appliance. The person is experiencing a painful, raw area around the stoma, leading to a cycle of damage and discomfort. They are seeking advice on how to manage the leaks, protect the skin, and find relief, especially when away from home.

Here are some helpful suggestions and insights:

- Try the "crusting" technique:
1. Gently clean the area with warm water, avoiding moisturizing soap.
2. Dry the skin thoroughly.
3. Lightly dust the irritated skin with stoma powder, such as Karaya Powder by Hollister.
4. Tap off any excess powder.
5. Seal the area with a no-sting skin-barrier spray or wipe, like 3M Cavilon No Sting Barrier Film.
6. Allow it to dry before applying the barrier ring or wafer.
7. If possible, let the area air dry for a short time before attaching the pouch.

- Consider these product options:
- Use 3M Cavilon Barrier Spray or No-Sting Barrier Wipes.
- Apply Hollister Karaya Powder.
- Use Micropore tape over sore skin as a protective layer, then attach the wafer to the tape.
- Try a washer or ostomy ring cut snugly around the stoma, and cut the wafer opening slightly smaller than the stoma.
- For concave areas, consider deep-convex pouching systems, such as Marlen deep-convex one-piece drainable pouches.
- Use silicone-based barrier films if alcohol-based sprays are irritating.
- A steroid nasal spray, prescribed by an ostomy nurse, can help calm severe inflammation.
- Use a sting-free adhesive remover to ease wafer removal and reduce skin trauma.

- Keep these technique reminders in mind:
- Always finish with the barrier spray or wipe, not the powder, to ensure the pouch sticks.
- Use a minimal amount of barrier film to avoid build-up; practice on the back of your hand first.

- Seek professional and educational support:
- Contact an ostomy or wound-ostomy-continence nurse for immediate assistance.
- Reach out to manufacturers for free samples and product-specific advice.
- Watch ostomy-care videos on YouTube for demonstrations of techniques like crusting and appliance application.

- Remember, many newcomers face similar challenges. With the right products and guidance, achieving a wear time of 3–7 days is possible. Don't hesitate to insist on proper follow-up and support from healthcare providers, as insurance or Medicare often covers home-health nursing.

- Key steps to try immediately:
1. Obtain stoma powder and a no-sting barrier film, such as 3M Cavilon.
2. Use the powder-then-spray "crusting" method with each change.
3. Ensure a snug fit with a washer or ring, or consider a convex system if the area is indented.
4. Arrange a consultation with an ostomy nurse for hands-on fitting and product selection.