One of the biggest issues when dealing with incontinence is how to keep the skin of the incontinence sufferer from breaking down. The bottom line is that if the skin is broken down it can bring on serious rashes that are not only uncomfortable but can lead to infections that can be life threatening. However, there are tips that can help to prevent this. Caregivers should be especially aware of what they can do to prevent skin breakdown when caring for someone with incontinence. Skin care tips for those dealing with incontinence are-

– Choose the right incontinence product-It is not only important that you choose the right level of protection from incontinence supplies but the right fit, as well. If an incontinence undergarment or adult diaper is the wrong size it can lead to poor protection which leaves the skin of the wearer vulnerable to breakdown. It is crucial to keep in mind that correct absorbency level, style, fit, and even gender of the wearer. It is important to understand that there are incontinence products for men and incontinence products for women. These gender specific adult incontinence products will provide the right level of protection for the unique needs of each gender. Once you take all of these factors into consideration you will be able to find the right incontinence underwear for the person with incontinence.

– Use the right cleaning products- There are certain incontinence supplies that are formulated for the cleaning and protection of the skin of people who are experiencing incontinence. First and foremost, you should avoid soap when caring for a person with incontinence. Soap is highly drying which can lead to skin breakdown and even bring on skin sores. It is also recommended that patients with incontinence and caregivers use disposable wipes that are made to deal with incontinence. These wipes are much more gentle on skin and are designed to deal with cleaning up after incontinence. There are even some incontinence wipes that come with a cleanser built right into the wipe. After cleaning the skin it is important to pat it dry and then put on a moisturizer and barrier to help further protect the skin against urine and bowel material. If you are unsure as to what cleaning products are best for dealing with incontinence consult with your health care professional for recommendations.

– Change the incontinence undergarment frequently-It is crucial that the person who is experiencing incontinence changes their incontinence undergarment as soon as it becomes soiled or wet. For patients who are unable to do this themselves it is crucial that the caregiver is aware when this needs to happen. When the incontinence underwear or adult diaper is not changed immediately after being wet or soiled the skin can become threatened from exposure to urine or stool. This should be avoided at all costs as this can bring on a serious infection.

– Consult with your doctor should a skin breakdown occur-Sometimes even with the best of care skin breakdown can occur. A break in the skin of someone who is experiencing incontinence should never be ignored. You should seek immediate medical help so that the appropriate treatment can be prescribed before the problem grows worse.

Dianna Malkowski is a Board Certified Physician Assistant and Mayo Clinic trained nutritionist specializing in diabetes, cancer, wound healing, therapeutic diets and nutrition support. Also good at guiding right Incontinence products.

Visit the Care Giver Partnership for more info on Adult diapers

Incontinence is not a normal part of the aging process. Seniors are more at risk of developing incontinence from a variety of different factors.
Visit http://www.caregiverpartnership.com/ for more details.

Author Bio: Dianna Malkowski is a Board Certified Physician Assistant and Mayo Clinic trained nutritionist specializing in diabetes, cancer, wound healing, therapeutic diets and nutrition support. Also good at guiding right Incontinence products.

Visit the Care Giver Partnership for more info on Adult diapers

Category: Medicines and Remedies
Keywords: Incontinence products, Incontinence supplies, Adult diapers, Male incontinence pads