Topic Explanation:
The discussion revolves around finding relief for itching and irritation under the ostomy barrier, which occurs several days after changing the pouch. Participants share their experiences and suggestions on how to manage or prevent this discomfort, exploring various products and techniques that might help maintain skin integrity and improve the adhesion of the ostomy appliance.
Extracted Advice and Helpful Insights:
1. Avoid Lotions Under the Barrier: Lotions, including calamine, can interfere with the adhesion of the skin barrier. It's recommended to use products that do not compromise the barrier's stickiness.
2. Use Protective Barriers and Powders:
- Consider using protective liquid skin barriers like Cavilon or sprays that form a film to protect the skin.
- Stoma powder can be used to absorb moisture and reduce irritation. It can be applied directly under the barrier.
- The "crusting" technique involves applying stoma powder followed by a skin barrier spray to create a protective layer that supports better adhesion of the appliance.
3. Consider Different Brands and Products:
- Experiment with different brands of pouches and barriers as skin sensitivities can change or develop over time.
- Barrier rings, such as Eakin Cohesive Seals, can provide extra protection by preventing moisture from reaching the skin.
- Some users find relief with products containing ingredients like Manuka honey or specific formulations that cater to sensitive skin.
4. Regular Appliance Maintenance:
- Change the appliance more frequently if experiencing irritation or leakage.
- Ensure the skin is completely dry before applying a new pouch to prevent irritation and improve seal integrity.
- After showering, make sure the area around the stoma is thoroughly dry; some users recommend using a hairdryer for this purpose.
5. Home Remedies and Adjustments:
- Some users have found relief by allowing more air time for the skin before reapplying the pouch.
- Adjusting the diet and avoiding foods that may increase output can also help manage skin integrity around the stoma.
6. Professional Consultation:
- Consult with an Enterostomal Therapy (ET) nurse or dermatologist for personalized advice and to test for allergies to specific products.
- An allergy test can be performed by applying a piece of the barrier material to a less sensitive area of the skin, like the inner arm, to check for reactions.
7. Innovative Application
See full discusison