Forum > Ostomy-related questions
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119
tbird56b
May 19, 2025 5:08 pm
The adhesive area where the bag attaches is very sore. What can I do?
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SusanT
May 19, 2025 5:42 pm
Depends on the cause of the soreness.
Are you getting leaks?
Are you removing it carefully with adhesive remover? Pulling too hard on the skin will cause soreness.
Are you potentially allergic to the adhesive? Try a different brand. Test on the other side of your abdomen if you can.
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TerryLT
May 19, 2025 8:12 pm
Does the skin look normal, or is it irritated and/or raw? Is it sore all the time, or just when you change your appliance? Is output getting under the wafer and onto your skin? That will cause irritation for sure, especially if you have an ileostomy. Otherwise, as Susan said, it could be that you are allergic to something in the product.
Terry
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Kyle
May 20, 2025 2:30 am
When I got out of the hospital, it was 8 days before I could get the ostomy nurse to come in, and my stomach had shrunk enough for the acid to damage my skin. A few weeks later, pus came out between the stoma and skin as I had cellulitis—like the worst sunburn you've ever had. It needed two courses of antibiotics. I also had problems with a rash, so when I have my bag off, I put some cortisone cream and a fungicide on and lay down for 20 minutes—wash it off with mild cleanser—dry well—use Brava barrier cream, stoma powder, and Cavilon skin protector. Cut your appliance as close to your stoma as you can. I got an oval-shaped template from the Hollister website as I have a loop colostomy—I make sure no skin is showing when I put the template up against my stoma. I apply the barrier ring around my stoma (I stretch it and cut it to fit closely) and then put on my appliance. It's trial and error to find what works for you. Don't use cortisone cream every time, as it can thin your skin, so as soon as you have the issue under control, just try to prevent the problem. If you're itchy, antihistamines really help—I use Benadryl.
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fredy36n
May 21, 2025 11:07 pm
Sometimes the skin around the adhesive can get irritated. You might try using a skin barrier wipe or spray before attaching the bag-it helps protect your skin. Also, make sure to change the bag carefully and not leave it on too long.
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