Following prostate cancer surgery about five years ago, I've been incontinent. I am prescribed five pads per day plus Cavilon Barrier Cream to apply after a bath plus Hydrocortisone 1.0% Cream to easy discomfort, irritation, redness of the scrotum which is near permanently in contact with urine. The barrier cream works but only up to a point, and applying the Hydrocortisone Cream before or after the barrier cream makes a big difference.
I've read that Hydrocortisone Cream should not be used for long periods, as it can thin the skin, as seems to be slowly happening to me …. suffering more irritation than ever. So, is there an alternative?
Thanks in advance.
My brother had the same problem with a sheath.
Have you tried a different barrier cream rather than the hydrocortisone cream?
Jean
Hello Jean ... no, but I'm looking for recommendations.
I'm sorry you have been having these symptoms following prostate surgery. Firstly, I would have your skin reviewed by a continence specialist. The pads work better with a well fitting string type pants specially designed to work with pads that fit against the groin, avoiding slippage of the pad. Also have you had advice on pelvic floor strengthening? It is always best to have the technique checked by a specialist Physiotherapist to advise you & check you are performing the exercise correctly. Often the muscles can suffer damage following the surgery and recovery is variable. I do hope there is a specialist in your area and that you will receive some relief with the skin soreness in the short term.
Hi David
I think you idea of a pad with separate compartments is a brilliant one.
I would recommend a non perfumed simple barrier cream such as E45. You can get a large container with a hyjienic pump action on prescription. Kind regards
Jean
Thanks Emma … Re pelvic floor exercises, I've done them till I'm blue in the face! My urinary sphincter was damaged during surgery.
Yes a continence specialist sounds like an idea, the continence nurse I see every six months is certainly no specialist, just says “talk to your GP”, and my GP just hands out more prescriptions for Cavilon & Hydrocortisone.
Hi David
My brother had the same problem with the 'continence' nurse.
She humiliated him going thru a detailed 'assessment'. At the end she said she could prescribe two pads a day. I complained on his behalf and got as many as required. The local NHS hospital alsoprovide a launfdry service. Pick up th laundry for washing then replace them with freshly laundered bedding.
It is hospital sheets . not your own bedding. Is that an issue for you.
Are u in the UK?
David, if you have an idea for seperate compartments for pads, make sure you patent your idea before you tell too many people. I learned about patents when I was designing my product for incontinence and other issues. Good luck with it and the best to you. I am sure you will figure out what to do to help you the best.
Lynn
I get two pads a day plus sudocreme two tubs a month. I have to provide everything else myself.
Can the local CCG review your situation and cut the bureacrats out.