How can I tell if I have sore skin?
As many as 73% of ostomates have reported skin problems as being an ongoing problem. You can usually tell if you have an issue if:
- Your skin under your baseplate is more pink/red than the surrounding skin
- There are patches of broken sore skin
- The skin is weeping
- The skin is painful
- The skin is very itchy
Sore skin can occur in several areas:
- Directly around the stoma
- At the edge of the baseplate
- Or under the whole/large section of the baseplate.
Although sore skin is common. It is not something you have to put up with and can usually be resolved.
The Ostomy Check will help to identify sore skin and any further problems you may be trying to overcome. Alternatively, you can call us on 0800 783 1434 or request a call back to talk these problems through with one of our specialist ostomy advisors.
Four tips to help you manage sore skin
- Check your stoma template. Half the incidences of sore skin are caused by templates that are too large. Your baseplate should fit snugly around your stoma. Make this part of your routine.
- Change your appliances and any recommended products as advised by your stoma nurse. Don’t wear you bag longer than advised.
- When you change your appliance, use plain tap water and dry wipes to clean and dry the skin. Make sure that the area under the baseplate is free hair and the baseplate is securely fixed to your skin from stoma to the edge.
- Be careful when removing your appliance. Many find adhesive removers helpful when removing their baseplate.
