The topic at hand is about dealing with persistent blood-filled bumps or blisters that have appeared around the base of a stoma. These bumps do not go away even after they seem to heal, and the person experiencing them is looking for advice on what they might be and how to treat them.
Here are some helpful insights and advice:
1. Avoid popping the lesions. It's important to consult a stoma nurse or dermatologist as soon as possible for a proper assessment.
2. Many people emphasize the need for a professional review because these bumps could be granulomas, chronic dermatitis, or even a bacterial or viral infection like Herpes Simplex or Zoster.
3. Check the fit of your appliance. If the flange opening is too large or if there are frequent leaks, constant exposure to effluent can lead to granulomas and other skin issues. Make sure the fit is snug.
4. A skin protection routine suggested by several people includes:
- Dusting the irritated skin with stoma powder and then sealing it with a skin-prep or barrier wipe before applying the appliance. This is known as the "crusting" technique.
- Some have mentioned using ConvaTec Skin Barrier Wipes.
5. Consider the possibility of an allergic reaction to the wafer adhesive:
- Try using paper or cloth adhesive tape to secure the pouch instead of relying solely on the wafer’s adhesive to see if symptoms improve.
6. Some topical products have been shared as providing quick relief for soreness, though they are not substitutes for medical evaluation:
- Vicks VapoRub, which is available over-the-counter.
- Calazime Skin Protectant Paste, a type of zinc oxide paste.
- After applying either product, lightly dust with stoma powder and tap with a ConvaTec skin barrier wipe before pouching.
7. General cautions include:
- Avoid manipulating or squeezing any lesion within at least a 10-inch radius around the stoma.
- If this condition is new after years of trouble-free wear, it is advised to seek urgent medical review.
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