Ostomy Issues And Solutions

An ostomy tends to provide permanent relief from several internal health conditions. However, this bowel or urinary diversion comes with a host of challenges. Most of these challenges are related to daily stoma care.

In this article, we will discuss some most common ostomy issues and their possible solutions.

Skin irritation around the stoma

The skin around the stoma is generally more exposed to the contact of the stoma output. That is why it is quite vulnerable to developing certain complications and irritation. Since this area of skin has to provide a ground for the ostomy pouch to make a seal through adhesives, it is usually more susceptible to irritation, redness, and soreness. Factors or actions that can result in itchiness, blisters, and weeping are improper removal, moisture, and picking.

The first thing that patients have to do is to find a pouching system with the right-sized opening. An improperly fitting pouch will have a larger opening than required. Such an opening will let the stomal output come in contact with the skin around the stoma. In certain cases, creams, adhesives, and paste can cause skin irritation. Instead of going with the trial-and-error method to find the right fit, patients can discuss their concerns with an ostomy care nurse to get the precise solution.

Bowel movements and ostomy

An ostomy patient usually experiences constipation or diarrhea due to medications or stress during the first few days after surgery. An ostomy care nurse will guide on how to develop a good diet plan. The most common ways to deal with constipation or diarrhea include staying hydrated and having a high-fiber diet. The patient must also be aware of foods that may cause gas or blockage.

Peristomal skin infections

Peristomal skin infections can affect the quality of life pretty badly. Unfortunately, these infections are more common than you think. These infections occur due to bacterial growth. The best way to prevent this issue is to keep stoma care products and peristomal skin clean and dry. Two types of peristomal skin infections are candidiasis and folliculitis.

• Peristomal candidiasis refers to the overgrowth of the fungus Candida Albicans on the stoma and skin around it.
• Folliculitis refers to inflammation or infection of superficial hair follicles.

Your doctor or ostomy care nurse will prescribe an antifungal product to overcome these conditions. They may also evaluate your pouching method and products you use while changing your ostomy pouch or cleaning your stoma.

Ostomy leakage

There can be several reasons for ostomy leakage. These reasons include improper fitting of the pouch on the peristomal skin, creases in the adhesive surface, frequency of pouch changes, lack of cleanliness, and inadequate preparation of the area before wearing the ostomy pouch. It is crucial to clean and dry the skin before wearing an ostomy pouch. It means that the surface the skin barrier is placed on should be clean and dry. Remember, the correct fitting of the ostomy pouch is the only way to prevent leaks. Your clothing choice also plays a significant role in whether or not there will be leaks. Loose-fitting clothes are usually better because they do not cause friction with the ostomy pouches. Tight-fitting clothing, on the other hand, can pull an ostomy pouch, making leaks more likely.