What is sore skin
Ostomates occasionally suffer with sore skin but the causes are easy to identify and solve when you know what to look for.
What causes sore skin?
There are lots of things that can irritate the skin around your stoma. It may become red and sore because moisture from ‘output’ has been sitting on the skin, because you’ve had a reaction to a product used, or simply because frequent bag changes have stripped the skin on removal. Most of these problems can be easily solved by finding the right products and taking good care of your skin.
How to prevent sore skin
It is very important during changing that you fully remove any adhesive with a ‘sting-free’ adhesive remover spray or wipe. Thoroughly cleanse the area and take time to make sure it’s completely dry before you reapply anything to your skin. Always pat the area around your stoma dry, rather than rubbing, to reduce the chance of irritation. Use a barrier spray before applying your bag to protect the skin from being damaged by constant changes.
Taking care of your stoma skin
It is very important during changing that you fully remove any adhesive with a ‘sting-free’ adhesive remover spray or wipe. Thoroughly cleanse the area and take time to make sure it’s completely dry before you reapply anything to your skin. Always pat the area around your stoma dry, rather than rubbing, to reduce the chance of irritation. Use a barrier spray before applying your bag to protect the skin from being damaged by output and constant changes.
There are a number of ways you can prevent skin problems from happening or getting worse.
1. Make sure that your bag is a good fit
Any gaps or creases around the stoma could allow unwanted moisture to sit on your skin. Your stoma can change shape and size. Measure it regularly!
2. Seals and Flange Extenders
Sometimes it maybe you need a seal to help protect the skin immediately around the stoma. Silicone seals hug the stoma, eliminating gaps and leaks. Flange extenders can also be used where you feel you need to extra security. Silicone flange extenders are soft and flexible, helping to keep your stoma bag in place
3. Follow a good skin care routine
Always thoroughly clean and dry your skin. Use our step-by-step guide to a good skin care routine when changing and maintaining your appliance.
If you are unsure or worried about your skin always seek the advice of a healthcare professional or your stoma nurse.