A stoma is a surgical opening in the abdominal wall created to eliminate body waste (feces or urine) when there is a problem with excretion through the normal route. Body waste is collected in an ostomy pouch which is attached to the stoma. Stomas are commonly created as diverting measures in managing gastrointestinal malignancies, bowel or bladder obstructions, or inflammatory bowel diseases.
The stoma and the surrounding area (peristomal skin) remain delicate, especially after surgery, and require a special skin care regimen to keep it clean and healthy. After ostomy surgery, skin health is vital in regaining and maintaining a healthy and comfortable lifestyle and avoiding peristomal skin complications (PSCs) and stoma infections.
Infection of the stoma is one of the main worries of an ostomate. Skin infection around the stoma can happen for various reasons, so it is important to check your stoma and peristomal skin with each ostomy pouch change to identify any new issues should they arise.
The peristomal skin should look just like the skin on the rest of your abdomen or body. It should be smooth, clean, and dry. There should be no discoloration, redness, itchiness, or lesions of any kind. If you notice any difference in the peristomal skin, contact your doctor immediately.
Changes in the stoma and the surrounding skin often indicate an issue that may require immediate treatment. Contact your surgeon or ostomy nurse if you see the following signs:
If you see evidence of peristomal skin complications or stoma infection or have concerns regarding your ostomy, speak with your doctor or ostomy nurse. A qualified healthcare professional can diagnose the issue and prescribe medication if necessary.
You can avoid stoma complications by following these simple suggestions:
Used to fill in gaps or caulk unevenness around the stoma to get a more reliable seal with the ostomy wafer. This latex-free stoma paste is meant to increase the wear time of the skin barrier while protecting the skin from stoma output.
Fits unique body shapes and follows natural body movements during the day. This ostomy bag bends and stretches with skin while maintaining a secure fit. This drainable pouch is made of a textile material that is soft and comfortable against the skin with low friction against clothes. This is a one-piece ostomy system that improves the user’s confidence since there is absolutely no chance of the bag and flange falling apart.
Protects peristomal skin from moisture such as urine, feces, sweat, and other bodily fluids that can cause maceration. This liquid skin protectant reacts with the moisture and skin surface to create a strong film that stays on the skin until dead cells are shed off naturally. It bonds to the skin surface and integrates with the epidermis supporting the natural integrity of the skin.
Most suitable for colostomies and ileostomies, this drainable pouch can be changed without changing the wafer, reducing the risk of peristomal skin irritation. This ostomy bag is designed to empty waste from an opening at the bottom. The integrated Lock 'n Roll Microseal closure uses plastic interlocking fasteners to create a secure closure.
Part of a two-piece pouching system to protect skin from irritating discharge, this long-lasting extended-wear skin barrier has a high resistance to erosion. It incorporates an integrated floating flange that allows fingers to be placed under the pouch while attaching a pouch, minimizing pressure on the abdomen.
When applied to the skin, barrier wipes protect the skin by creating a barrier against adhesives, stoma output, and friction from daily wear. These wipes are perfect for individuals with colostomies.
Used for skincare around the stoma, this stoma powder effectively absorbs moisture and reduces skin irritation. Regular use can reduce the occurrence of peristomal skin problems. Before using the ostomy powder, clean and dry the stoma and the surrounding skin.
Designed to secure the edges of the skin barrier and keep it securely positioned in place, barrier strips fill uneven areas of the skin to reduce or stop leakage completely. They also absorb moisture to make the skin more comfortable and less irritated.
An infection of the stoma is a serious condition. Make a note of how your peristomal skin looks when it is healthy. Once you know what healthy skin looks like, you can watch for signs of skin infection. Inspect the skin around the stoma with each pouch change. If you see any unusual signs, do not ignore them and notify your doctor or ostomy nurse immediately before the condition worsens.
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Sailaxmi Chennuru, has been a Health Products For You contributor since 2017. A business management graduate, the study of anatomy has always been of interest to her.
After working as a medical transcriptionist for several years, she developed a keen interest ...
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