This topic is about someone who has had an ileostomy for ten years without any skin issues, but now they are experiencing a painful, red area around their stoma. This redness is causing discomfort, especially when touched or when effluent passes, even right after changing the appliance. They are currently using stoma powder and barrier wipes but are seeking advice on how to relieve the irritation.

Here are some helpful suggestions:

1. Reach out to a stoma or enterostomal therapy (ET) nurse as soon as possible for an in-person assessment. Sudden severe pain and redness should be evaluated by a professional.

2. Be mindful that heat, perspiration, barrier wipes, and adhesive removers can irritate the skin around the stoma, especially during warmer months. Consider switching to gentler products in hot weather and allow the skin to air-dry for about 15 minutes, possibly using a small fan, before applying a new wafer to help reduce redness.

3. If there has been a change in the skin contour, switching to a concave (convex) baseplate or wafer might relieve pressure and help the area heal. Some people have noticed improvement within 24 hours and complete resolution in a week.

4. Try the "crusting" technique, which involves applying a barrier wipe, then stoma powder, followed by another barrier wipe. This can help while the area heals. Also, leave the skin uncovered to air whenever possible.

5. Consider using Compound Tincture of Benzoin to protect the irritated skin and improve adhesion.