Skin irritation around the stoma

@susanf8 I have a urostomy for about 4 yrs. My skin problems comes and and go but not around the stoma. I haven’t seen a nurse for a long time. I contacted the previous nurse but she left the company but referred me to two others who aren’t seeing new patients.

@mariar55 that's frustrating. Have you tried contacting the surgeon who did your ileal conduit to see if they can point you to the WOCN they work with now? Perhaps your GP can help you find someone?

Another resource is the UOAA Virtual Ostomy Clinic https://www.ostomy.org/clinic/ or calling the manufacturer if you ostomy appliance.

When you say the skin issues are not around the stoma, are they under the appliance?

@mariar55

Here is a link to an article on how to use the Eakins Cohesive Seal (made by Convatec). It is sold by medical supply companies and is also on Amazon, Walmart, etc.
https://www.exmed.net/how-to-use-convatec-cohesive-eakin-seals

@susanf8 redness around the stoma is ongoing. I also at times have problems with the skin under the appliance to the point that it starts weeping under it and causes itchiness.

@susanf8 Thanks for putting up that Convatec site. I've used the Eakin seals since the beginning according to how the nurse taught me, that is applying the ring directly to the flange and turtle-necking it, but I think putting it straight to the stoma, as the video shows might well be better.

I did not know about the Eakin StomaWrap variety of the seal. I could send for a free example. My hands don't work properly anymore. I suppose on the other hand, I could simply cut into a regular one and use it in the same way.

@mariar55 that is concerning. Another avenue that I have used is a Dermatologist. They mostly don't know all that much about stomas, but they should know how to get you into a WOCN. I did see a dermatologist for some skin issues under my appliance at one point.

@piki I've applied the eakins both ways, on my skin, and pre applied to the appliance. I sort of go back and forth.

I use the stoma wrap. I tear it in half , and shape it into a ring or strip. It's been working really well for me!

@susanf8 thank you for all your help. I am supposed to see a nurse on June 22nd. Hopefully she will be able to help me as she will see first hand how it appears. Thank you again.

@mariar55 I'm so happy you are seeing someone! Let us know how it goes?