You may use moisturizing creams to keep the skin moist. Avoid products that have alcohol in them, because this may irritate the skin. If you are receiving radiation therapy, ask your health care provider if it is okay to use any creams or lotions.

Consider using a skin sealant or moisture barrier. Creams or ointments that contain zinc oxide, lanolin, or petrolatum form a protective barrier on the skin. Some skin care products (often in the form of a spray or a towelette) can create a clear, protective film over the skin. A doctor or nurse can recommend barrier creams to help protect the skin.

Even if you use these products, you must still clean the skin after each episode of incontinence. Reapply the cream or ointment after cleaning and drying the skin.

People who often have incontinence problems may develop a yeast infection on the skin. An itchy, red, pimple-like rash appears. The skin may feel raw.

There are several products (both over-the-counter and prescription) that can be used to treat the yeast infection. If the skin is moist most of the time, you may use a powder with antifungal medication (such as nystatin powder). A moisture barrier or skin sealant may be applied over the powder. If severe skin irritation develops, see your health care provider.

The National Association For Continence (NAFC) publishes a resource guide of continence products and services, which includes a listing of the manufacturers and distributors of specific products. To get a copy of this resource guide, call 1-800-BLADDER or go to the website www.nafc.org.

IF YOU ARE BEDRIDDEN OR USING A WHEELCHAIR

You or your caregiver should check the skin for pressure sores every day. Look for reddened areas that, when pressed, do not turn white. Also look for blisters, sores, or craters.

Eat healthy, well-balanced meals that contain enough calories and protein to keep you healthy.

People who must stay in bed should:

• Change positions often, at least every 2 hours
• Have clean sheets and clothing
• Use items that can help reduce pressure (pillows, sheepskin, foam padding)

People who use a wheelchair should:

• Make sure the chair fits properly
• Shift their weight every 15 - 20 minutes
• Use items that can help reduce pressure (pillows, sheepskin, foam padding)

Images

Male urinary system

• < Page
1 2
• >

Next Section

Skin care and incontinence Prevention

Review Date: 03/10/2010
Reviewed By: Roy Colven, MD, Dermatologist, Associate Professor of Medicine, University of Washington Medical School, Seattle, Washington. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org)