Managing Yeast Infections, Fungal Infections, and Skin Irritation Around the Stoma

Living with an ostomy requires a bit more than just changing your ostomy pouch throughout the day. It brings a whole new meaning to skin care, especially the skin around the stoma. While occasional irritation is common, persistent discomfort or a rash around the peristomal skin may signal a fungal infection. Yeast infections and other fungal issues thrive in warm, moist environments, making the skin around your stoma particularly vulnerable. Here, we'll go over essential information regarding how to manage yeast infections and other fungal infections.

What Causes Peristomal Skin Irritation?

Several factors can contribute to irritated skin around the stoma, most of which involve prolonged exposure to moisture, friction, or leakage. Although it's common for ostomates to experience some irritation here and there, prolonged issues can create more severe problems and lasting skin damage. Here are a few examples of what can irritate peristomal skin to help you address the underlying issues.

• Leakage of stoma output: If stool, urine, or digestive enzymes escape from the pouching system, they can irritate and damage the skin.
• Poorly fitting ostomy appliance: An appliance that is too tight or loose can lead to leakage or friction, irritating the skin.
• Excess moisture: Trapped sweat, humidity, or inadequate drying after cleaning can create a damp environment that promotes skin breakdown and fungal growth.
• Allergic reactions or sensitivities: Some individuals may react to adhesives, barrier rings, tapes, or other ostomy supplies, causing contact dermatitis.
• Frequent appliance changes: Repeatedly removing the pouching system can strip the skin and cause mechanical trauma.
• Improper skin cleaning techniques: Using harsh soaps, scrubbing vigorously, or not rinsing properly can lead to irritation and reduced appliance adhesion. The right skin care can make a world of difference.
• Medical conditions: Conditions like diabetes, obesity, or autoimmune diseases can make the skin more vulnerable to irritation and slower to heal.

When irritation is already present, this can increase the risk of fungal infections like Candida, as it creates an environment that promotes fungal growth.

Understanding Fungal Infections

Fungal infections, particularly those caused by Candida, are a common concern for individuals with an ostomy. These infections typically develop when the balance of microorganisms on the skin is disrupted, allowing fungi to overgrow and cause irritation, redness, itching, and discomfort. The most common culprit in peristomal fungal infections is Candida albicans, a type of yeast that naturally lives on the skin but can multiply rapidly under the right conditions.

And while fungal infections and bacterial infections can cause some of the same symptoms, bacterial infections typically require antibiotics and may involve pus or drainage. Getting a diagnosis from your doctor is the best way to determine the appropriate treatment.

Different Types of Fungal Infections to Be Aware Of

A few different types of fungal infections can occur in people with stomas. The most common symptom amongst all fungal issues is a raised, itchy, red, and sometimes pimuply rash. Still, seeing your healthcare provider is important to ensure you receive the correct treatment. A few types of fungal skin infections include:

• Thrush (Candida fungi): This often appears as red, itchy rashes with white patches or satellite lesions around the peristomal area.
• Tinea Corporis (ringworm): This contagious fungal infection presents as circular, scaly, red patches on the skin and can affect the peristomal region if exposed.
• Pityriasis versicolor (Malassezia): This skin infection leads to discolored, often mildly itchy patches.

If you suspect that you may have a fungal infection around your stoma, it's important to see your doctor.

Risk Factors for Fungal Infections as an Ostomate

While anyone can get a fungal infection around the stoma, there are a few things that may increase your risk. Some of these include:

• Prolonged moisture buildup under your ostomy pouch
• Excessive sweating
• Damaged or irritated skin
• Repeated application and removal of adhesives
• Use of antibiotics
• Weakened immune system
• Underlying conditions like diabetes or cancer
• Chronic pouch leaking
• Poor pouching seal
• Skin folds on the abdomen
• History of fungal infections
• Living in a hot, humid environment

Having one or more risk factors doesn't mean that you will get a fungal infection, but it can help you be more proactive about your health and the early warning signs. Some of the most common symptoms of a fungal infection include the following:

• Itching
• Redness
• Rash, often with a sharp border
• Small red bumps or pustules
• Burning or stinging sensation
• Moist, weepy, or shiny skin
• Skin breakdown or erosion
• Odor
• Discomfort
• Poor adherence to ostomy products

Similar symptoms can also occur with an allergy or if you come in contact with an irritant. Determining the underlying cause will help ensure the issue is fixed.

How to Prevent Yeast Infections and Other Fungal Infections When Living With an Ostomy

Luckily, there are a few things you can do to help reduce your risk of yeast infections and other fungal infections with an ostomy. These will also help decrease the risk of irritation and keep your peristomal skin healthy. If you have any questions or concerns about ostomy care, however, it's always best to talk to your doctor.

Practice Good Skin Hygiene

One of the best things you can do for your peristomal skin health is to practice good hygiene. This includes washing the peristomal skin regularly with warm water and a soft cloth. Unless otherwise advised by your doctor or ostomy nurse, you don't need to use soap. If you do use soap, make sure that it's mild and unscented. Fragranced or antibacterial soaps can disrupt the skin's natural barrier and worsen dryness and irritation.

It's also important to avoid harsh scrubbing of the area, which can increase the risk of skin damage. Once you've finished cleaning the area, make sure that the skin is completely dry before applying a new appliance. Any trapped moisture under the wafer can create an environment where yeast thrives.

Ensure a Proper Appliance Fit and Seal

A properly fitting ostomy pouch can also help prevent leakage and reduce unnecessary irritation, both of which can decrease the likelihood that you expeirence an infection. Always check to make sure that your pouching system fits snugly and securely. If you're having trouble, talk to your ostomy nurse about trying new products or using a convex barrier.

Try using barrier rings, seals, or ostomy paste to help protect the skin and enhance the appliance's seal. There are several different ostomy products available to help you find the perfect seal without irritation.

Manage Moisture

 Since fungi love warm, moist environments, keeping moisture under control is essential. Always let the skin completely dry after you clean it, and if you're going to be swimming or exercising, be careful to pat the area dry until you can change the pouch. Your healthcare provider may also recommend using a skin barrier powder or other antifungal product regularly if you're prone to moisture-related irritation or experience chronic infections.

Perform Routine Skin Monitoring

Finally, take the time to regularly check your skin for any signs of problems before they become serious. Inspect the peristomal area with every appliance change and look for any signs of redness, rash, itching, or unusual bumps. If you see anything that raises concerns, schedule an appointment with your doctor as soon as possible or use an antifungal powder.

Treatment for Yeast Candidiasis and Other Fungal Infections

If you suspect that you have a fungal infection, it's important to see your doctor for a diagnosis. This will ensure you get the correct treatment options based on the fungi present. Some common options include:

• Over-the-counter antifungal powders
• Prescription topical antifungals

Your doctor will also likely recommend adjusting your ostomy pouching system to ensure that you have a strong seal with the antifungal powder.

Caring for the Skin Around Your Stoma

Dealing with a fungal infection around your ostomy can feel overwhelming, but it's entirely manageable with early detection and the right treatment. From preventing excess moisture to choosing appliances that fit well and protect your skin, you can take many proactive steps to keep your peristomal skin healthy.

However, if you’re dealing with ongoing irritation or suspect a yeast infection, it's important to see a doctor or ostomy nurse. And when you’re ready to stock up on high-quality ostomy products, head to Byram Healthcare for a wide selection of options. From ostomy powders to protective barriers and secure pouching systems, Byram has what you need to support your skin and provide peace of mind. Contact us today to learn more.