Stoma
Stoma is derived from the Greek for a mouth or mouth-like opening (especially one created by surgery on the surface of the body to create an opening to an internal organ).
In the case of colostomies, ileostomies and urostomies, this is a surgically constructed opening, especially one in the abdominal wall that permits the passage of waste.
A stoma will look red and moist, and can stick out from the skin by a few centimetres, although some stomas may be flush to the skin. Your stoma is rich with blood vessels and can bleed quite easily if knocked or bumped, for example when changing your stoma appliance or washing around your stoma site. Despite this your stoma should not cause you any pain. Following surgery, your stoma may be swollen but this should reduce during the next six weeks to two months.
Stoma Skin Care
The area to which your stoma bag is attached is called the peristomal area and it is very important that this area is kept clean and protected from the bodily fluids that exit from your stoma. The peristomal skin can often become sore due to the output of the stoma and sometimes the continuous use and removal of adhesive stoma appliances can cause irritation.
A Stoma Nurse Specialist can help you if you are experiencing difficulties with your stoma appliances and assist you with the practical aspects of living with a stoma, such as choosing the most suitable pouch system, emptying the pouch and looking after the skin around your stoma.
3M™ Cavilon™ No Sting Barrier Film can be safely applied around stoma sites, and provides protection against bodily fluids and adhesives. It can be applied to very sore or broken skin without stinging, and will not affect the adhesion of the stoma appliances.
3M™ Cavilon™ No Sting Barrier Film is available as a handy, cost effective stoma wipe. Each discreet wipe is easy to use and the alcohol free formula offers gentle yet effective protection to the at risk skin around your stoma. You can use 3M™ Cavilon™ No Sting Barrier Film stoma wipe every time you change your appliance to protect against potential skin damage or treat sore and irritated skin. Available on prescription from your GP in boxes of 30.
Find out where to buy 3M™ Cavilon No Sting Barrier Film and 3M™ Cavilon™ No Sting Barrier Film Stoma Wipes.
Further Information
For further information, please visit these recommended websites below. Please note that 3M is not responsible for the content of external websites.
