I have a temporary illeostomy and had my colon removed 4 weeks ago. I have a rash under the flange part of my bag, and the ostomy nurse suggested it could be a fungal rash, so to try anti-fungal powder, which I did. However, I had the worst time getting the new flange and bag to stick. I tried to get all the powder off, and kept cleaning the area and trying to let it dry, but it took 3 tries to get it to stick, over probably 3 hours. I was so frustrated that I psychologically worn out after that. I really freaked out because I had to stare at the stoma, which I really can't stand, and I just kept cursing it and wishing it would go away. I know that it is temporary, and I know that the rash will go away (I am now using a prescription hydrocortisone cream), but can anyone let me know how you get through having an emotional setback like that? I am worried about the next bag change and just want to get through it.
Are you using a barrier wipe over the powder before you put the wafer on? I put on my powder then use a 3M barrier wipe, take a hairdryer and dry the barrier wipe then attach my wafer... If you use only powder then it could cause the wafer to not stick.
Thanks, Chris, that is good advice. No, I had not used a barrier wipe after using the powder. I think that might make all the difference! I will give it a shot.
When I first got my ileostomy, I wasn't too keen on the whole thing either! As time goes by, you really do come to accept it because it gives you freedom. I was so sick that once I got over the shock of it all, and realized that I was no longer sick, its all good. You will be okay too, I know it sometimes doesn't feel like it, just have faith and you will be just fine. As far as the rash, I now use a puffer, what they use for asthma, works great because it basically goes on dry and there is no muss no fuss. Take care.
Posts: 42 | Location: Canada | Registered: October 04, 2005
