Suggest Treatment For Dry, Ulcerated And Cracking Skin On Hands After Treating Rectal Cancer

Posted on Mon, 6 Jul 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sun, 5 Jul 2015 Answered on

Mon, 27 Jul 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : As a rectal cancer survivor with a J-pouch, I have in five years found that only enemas work to coax the bowel movements. Apparently, stool and effluent are irritants to the skin, both butt and hands. My butt is being handled, but the skin on the back of my hands is dry, ulcerated, cracking. I use nylon gloves and finger cots most of the time now, but I seem to be losing the battle to heal my hands, Suggestions? Thanks XXXXXXX - YYYY@YYYY

Answered by Dr. Prasanna Heijebu (14 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Use Nitrile gloves

Detailed Answer:
Hi Sir,

I understand your concern.

In order to protect your hands from cracking and ulceration,I advise you to use Nitrile gloves instead of nylon.These gloves are--

1.Protein-free, latex free
2.High barrier protection
3.Chemical resistant
4.Puncture resistant

To help in healing of hands,I advise you to go for Neutrogena Norwegian formula hand cream.You can apply this twice to thrice daily.It offers instant results.

Following the above two precautions will help to heal your cracked hands.

Post your further queries if any.
Thank you.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Shanthi.E