This topic is about dealing with persistent itching beneath an ostomy flange, which can be quite uncomfortable, especially shortly after surgery. The person who shared their experience had an ileostomy in May and has been struggling with intense itching whenever they apply a flange. They've tried different pouching systems and brands, but nothing seems to help. They're wondering if this is a normal part of the healing process and are looking for advice.

Here are some helpful insights and suggestions:

1. Consider a possible allergy to the materials in the flange or tape.
- Try using tapeless flanges from Hollister or Convatec wafers with paper tape.
- Reach out to manufacturers like Convatec and Hollister for samples of different products.
- Test a spare wafer on another part of your body, like the abdomen or thigh, to see if it causes itching there too, which might indicate an allergy.

2. To reduce or eliminate itching:
- Oral antihistamine tablets might help reduce allergic itching.
- Applying Cortizone-10 (hydrocortisone) roll-on once daily around the wafer can be beneficial, especially in hot, sweaty conditions.

3. Protect and heal the skin around the stoma:
- Lightly dust irritated skin with stoma powder and seal it with a non-sting barrier wipe.
- Apply calamine lotion or Benadryl Clear to dry skin, let it dry, and then place the wafer. You can also dab calamine through the tape if itching starts between changes.
- Use Compound Tincture of Benzoin to form a protective film over calamine before attaching the wafer.
- An oatmeal paste (oatmeal in a wet sock) can provide temporary relief for severe itching.

4. Improve the seal and reduce irritation from leaks:
- Eakin Cohesive Seals are highly recommended for preventing leaks and minimizing itch, allowing for longer wear times of 4+ days.
- Change the appliance as soon as you notice burning or skin breakdown.

5. Prevent fungal or bacterial issues:
- If the skin is broken or damp, consider using an anti-fungal preparation.
- Povidone-iodine prep pads, used every other change, can help reduce fungal and bacterial growth.

6. Follow a gentle cleansing routine:
- Wash with mild, non-perfumed soap, like plain Dial.
- Wipe once with a povidone prep pad.
- Rub in a small amount of Sween Cream and wipe off any excess.
- Apply calamine or Benadryl Clear and dry with cool air for about 45 seconds.
- Dust with stoma powder.
- Pat with a non-sting barrier wipe.
- Apply an Eakin seal (if used) and then the pouch.

7. Seek additional support:
- Consult your stoma nurse again or reach out to a local ostomy support group for more product ideas and skin-care strategies.