Very irritated skin around stoma

[guest78]

Hello everyone!
I have had my loop ileo for 16 months now. I am a very allergic person and have eczma and skin irritation. I have been allergy tested for pretty much every bag on the market and finally found one which worked well and I wasn't allergic to.
However, for the past few weeks the skin around my Stoma has gotten very, very irritated. It is very dry, itchy, red and sore. With some bits a bit weepy from scratching. I have had a couple if leaks at night but not that many. I don't think I am allergic to the bag as it's been fine for months before hand. It's really starting to get me down.

I was wondering if anyone had any advice on helping me clear it up. I have contacted a Stoma nurse but it's a little while until I see her.

Thanks for your help! I can post a photo if needed.
X

 

[nogutsnoglory]

That must be frustrating, sorry! Can you get a sample cream from the ostomy companies? I'd call them all to see what they can send you. You can also try different barrier wipes and powder if you don't already. There are also sheets you can cut out and paste under the wafer. The companies all have nurse support who can advise and send samples.

 

[UnXmas]

My skin is always in good condition, and I put it down to the fact that I change the bag so frequently, at least once a day (though this is only my own theory). I take everything off and clean the skin completely. If there's more output later I sometimes change the bag a second time in the same day. I think of it like changing a baby's nappy - you wouldn't just empty a dirty nappy without cleaning all the baby's skin. Maybe I'm just a hygiene freak or my skin is just robust, but I do have very dry skin so I'm not sure whether I'd get irritation if I didn't clean so often. Also I always clean just with a dry wipe dipped in warm water and some soap, rather than any wetwipes that have things added. It might be worth trying changing the bag more often and seeing if it makes a difference.

 

[DJW]

I feel for you. Please let us know how you make out.