In a pull-through, whatever came out of your ileostomy will now come out of your anus. Most pull-through patients retain full control over their passage of stool, gas and mucus. A small minority will need to use a pad or panty liner for fecal and or mucus seepage.
The perineal skin is most at risk for inflammation and irritation that causes burning during periods of excessive mucus discharge and increased bowel frequency. Patients need perineal skin care to prevent irritation and to promote comfort and healing when irritation is inevitable. Here are some hints to maintain healthy skin or soothe the burning:
- Cleanse and dry the skin thoroughly after each discharge of mucus or feces.
- Use only soft material for cleansing, such as tissues or cotton balls. Industrial toilet paper is very abrasive.
- Warm water is all that is necessary for intermittent care. Save soap for your shower or bath. Using soap that tends to dry and is difficult to rinse thoroughly may cause itching and further compound irritation.
- Some people have found Balneol to be helpful. It is a perineal cleansing lotion that does not require rinsing and is said to be soothing.
- Pads and panty liners, if used, should be changed frequently to keep the skin clean, dry and irritation free.
- Cotton underwear, or at least a cotton crotch, is advisable to keep perspiration to a minimum and to allow for circulation, since cotton breathes.
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