A bed sore occurs due to constant pressure or friction on the skin, and these skin injuries are common among people with limited mobility.
Causes and Risks of a Bed Sore
These ulcers develop when blood flow to pressured areas decreases, which may lead to the death of skin cells. The likelihood of developing them increases in the following cases:
- Staying in bed or a wheelchair for long periods.
- Losing the ability to move parts of the body due to diseases affecting movement, such as multiple sclerosis, or as a result of brain or spinal cord injuries.
- Suffering from diseases that hinder blood flow, including diabetes and vascular problems.
- Advanced age or having thin, fragile skin.
- Malnutrition or suffering from urinary or fecal incontinence.
Stages and Bed Sore Treatment
The severity of these injuries varies across four primary stages:
- Stage One: The skin appears red and does not turn white when pressed.
- Stage Two: Blisters or open ulcers appear, with potential irritation and redness of the surrounding skin.
- Stage Three: A deep, open crater forms that affects the tissues under the skin.
- Stage Four: The ulcer reaches a depth that causes damage to muscles, bones, joints, or tendons.
If the base of the ulcer is covered with dead skin that is brown, yellow, or green, it is not classified within these stages.
Regarding bed sore treatment, the following first aid steps can be followed until a doctor is consulted:
- Immediately relieve pressure from the affected area.
- Use a powder specified by the pharmacist on the sheets, or use specialized medical sheets to reduce friction.
- Clean the ulcer according to the doctor’s instructions to prevent inflammation; it is often rinsed with a saline solution to sterilize it and remove dead cells before covering it with a special dressing.
- Eat a healthy diet and use medications that aid healing after consulting a pharmacist.
- Avoid massaging the affected area or the surrounding skin.
Ways to Prevent Pressure Ulcers
Injuries can be avoided by following these guidelines:
- Examine the body daily from head to toe, focusing on areas covering protruding bones to look for any redness or blisters.
- Change body position at least every two hours.
- Drink sufficient amounts of water, averaging 8 to 10 cups per day.
- Keep the skin dry and clean, especially after elimination.
- Use pillows and medical powder to reduce pressure.
- Follow a balanced diet and consult a doctor about preventive skin creams.
When to Visit a Doctor?
Medical care should be sought as soon as any change in the skin is noticed, or when signs of ulcer inflammation appear, such as:
- Pus draining from the ulcer or a foul odor emanating from it.
- Swelling and redness of the area surrounding the ulcer accompanied by an increase in temperature.
- Symptoms of the infection reaching the blood, such as feeling confused, general weakness, and high body temperature.
FAQ
What do bed sores look like in the beginning?
They usually start as redness in the skin with the appearance of a blister, and may later develop into an open ulcer.
How can I protect the skin from friction?
Medical pillows can be used, or a powder recommended by the pharmacist can be placed on the sheets to reduce friction and pressure.
What is the role of nutrition in treating these ulcers?
Proper and balanced nutrition helps accelerate the skin healing process.
Medical Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult a doctor to diagnose the condition and determine the appropriate treatment.
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Illustration: AI-generated
approved by: Medica Health team