Bedsores occur when skin is constantly rubbed or pressed in a specific area when people lie or sit still too long. The pressure causes blood flow cut off, which leads the tissues to break down and develop an ulcer. Your risk is higher if you are elderly, cannot move parts of your body because of a spinal or brain injury or disease, have cancer, have a difficult time moving, use a wheelchair, have diabetes, are incontinent, have frequent muscle spasms or have fragile skin.
Symptoms include reddened areas on the skin, particularly in areas such as the shoulder blades, tailbone, buttocks, elbows, hips, heels, ankles and the back of the head. As the sores progress, they can become purple or deep red, and the area can blister. Surrounding skin can be either firm or mushy and painful, and the temperature can feel warmer or cooler than the rest of the skin. Stages can range from stage I, which indicates an early pressure ulcer, to stage IV, which indicates an ulcer that has reached the underlying tissues, including the muscle, tendons, bone or joint. If the tissues are covered by yellow, brown or green dead skin, the sores are said to be unstageable. Your doctor will need to diagnose the stage in order to prescribe the most appropriate medications.
Prompt treatment can reduce the risk of deterioration. The first step is to reduce friction and pressure. Pillows and foam cushions can be used to lift the area and help protect it. Apply medication and bandages as instructed by your doctor, and keep the area clean to reduce the risk of infections. Eating a balanced diet can give your body the nutrition it needs to heal. Dressings can be used to protect the area. Avoid massaging the sore or using doughnut cushions, which can further reduce blood flow. Contact your doctor immediately if the area becomes warm and swollen, has a foul smell or is oozing pus. Infections can quickly deteriorate into sepsis, so watch for fever, confusion and generalized weakness.
Prevention is the best way to manage this common problem. If you are on bed rest or have limited mobility, your skin should be checked every day for signs of irritation. Alter position every two hours or more frequently, and drink plenty of water daily to keep your system hydrated. Exercise can help improve blood flow, and try to use good hygiene to keep your body clean and dry, especially after having a bowel movement or urinating.