SKIN EXCORIATION is caused by contact with stool or urine. This is often uneven in appearance. Excoriation may occur on one side, especially where leaks occur. Du Derm may be used below the face-plate to absorb moisture and protect the skin. A thin coating of Maalox or Calamine (for itching) will protect and soothe skin. These can be dried with cool hair dryer. Nothing will stick to wet Skin.

Solutions also include finding a better wafer fit. A flat or rounded abdomen can achieve a better seal and results in less leakage. A concave abdomen may require a convex appliance. If the skin has folds, a more flexible appliance may be required. Remember, a flexible appliance needs a larger opening. Exposed skin must be protected with products like Skin Prep, Skin Bond, Karaya Rings or Eakin, a dough-like washer. Skin protection does not last as long as an appliance and should be replaced after 3 or 4 days. Difficulties with stomach shape can also be addressed by a floating flange.

ALLERGIES occur with contact, and may be indicated by a ring around the stoma where paste is used or tape makes contact with your skin. This can be treated like excoriation. Your E. T. can create test spots for paste, wafer, plastic and tape and judge your skins reactions to isolate the problem. It may be necessary to switch products. Appliances without tape are made by every company. Pouch covers can aid in allergies to plastic (and are a good idea when it is hot). If you use soap on the skin around your stoma, be sure to rinse well. If necessary, Your E. T. will refer you to a dermatologist. Be sure to take your own supplies for testing purposes.

MONILA - is a yeast infection. The skin will peel and may look purple. Monila often occurs after treatment with antibiotics or a yeast infection elsewhere. Treatment includes washing and drying the skin thoroughly and applying micostatin powder, (not ointment or oil) which is available over the counter. Yogurt in your diet helps fight yeast infections.

INFECTION - is causes by prolonged exposure to stool and is rare.

FOLICULITIS - is infected hair follicles, and is usually seen in men who shave around their stoma. Using Skin Prep to protect and coat the skin will help.

CHEMOTHERAPY - may cause a cycle of skin irritation. Using Duoderm under your appliance helps to keep the skin dry and protect it.

CRYSTAL FORMATION - can occur for those with urinary diversions. Washing the skin and soaking it with vinegar each time the appliance is changed can prevent crystal formation. Vinegar is a mild acid that breaks down the crystal.

PYODERMA GANGRENOSUM - seems to be connected to ulcerative colitis and Chohn’s Disease. This entails ulceration of the peristomal skin. Prednisone injections have been used and new ointments are proving effective. Skin breakdown due to Crohn’s can occur anywhere on the body.

SEE YOUR E. T. once a year. They may notice a change before you do. There may be a new product you should know about. Even if everything is going well, your E. T. would love to know all is O.K.