Reducing Skin Damage Due to Prolonged Exposure to Urine or Stool

Posted by Tukimin  |  at  6:41 PM No comments

Prolonged exposure to urine and stool, as well as other complications caused by incontinence leaves the aging population at risk for impaired skin integrity. Skin breakdown is common in those who suffer from incontinence, as the exposure to urine and still make the skin more susceptible to other injuries. The following is a look at some of the typical skin injuries, and what caregivers and incontinent individuals can do to reduce risk:

Maceration

Maceration is a typical problem for those with incontinence as it is caused by over-exposure to moisture. Maceration is when the skin becomes water logged and thus very fragile, putting it at greater risk for damage.

Reduce the risk of maceration by applying a skin protectant to the perineal skin each day, or even multiple times a day. Seniors in particular need this. The skin's natural defense against maceration is sebum, a lipid-based substance the body produces to act as a moisture barrier. As skin ages it produces less sebum. Thus, an ointment or artificial moisture barrier is needed.

Incontinence Dermatitis (IAD)

This is known by many names: IAD, perineal dermatitis, diaper rash, etc. It occurs when there is over-exposure to moisture and the chemicals and bacteria found in urine and feces. It leads to irritation and breakdown of the skin, which can lead to infection.

Reduce the risk of IAD by choosing quality absorbent products that wick moisture away from the skin. By changing the products frequently. And by cleansing the skin at each change using a no rinse, pH balanced cleanser.

Bacterial Infection

When a person is incontinent, their skin often has contact with or exposure to the bacteria in stool and waste products. Because elderly skin is often already susceptible to breakdown, and dry due to cleaning, and aging, bacteria and micro-organisms seem to grown at a faster rate. They are absorbed through skin cracks and fissures, and can lead to infection.

Avoid bacterial infection by cleaning, moisturizing, and protecting the skin. Use a cleanser specifically designed for perineal skin, so it won't dry it out, then use a daily moisturizer to keep cracks and fissures from occurring. Lastly, treat the skin to prevent bacterial growth.

Exposure To Caustic Agents

Urine contains ammonia, which increases the pH of the skin, and can cause skin breakdown. Stool contains bacteria. Bacteria use the ammonia as food, and thus, incontinent skin is both weaker, and a breeding ground for bacteria, leading to irritation, breakdown, and infection.

Help combat this problem with proper cleansing, changing products regularly, and protecting the skin with moisturizers and ointments.

The skin of incontinent individuals has higher risk factors for impaired integrity. A good skin care regime can help to keep skin healthy. Remember, there are three steps to good skin health: Cleanse, Moisturize, Protect. If the skin is already damaged, add a fourth step: Treat!