Bed sores, more commonly known as pressure sores, skin ulcers, or even decubitus are lesions or swelling of a particular area that has been rested upon for to long. Usually these areas are the more bony parts of the body like the spine, ankles, knees, head, and shoulders.
People who suffer from bed sores are most likely bed ridden, handicapped, disabled, or even paralyzed. The sores can be treated effectively if caught in the early stages, but if the lesions are left alone the blood can become restricted and life threatening symptoms will arise.
We recommend informing your general practitioner of the sore upon noticing so a record can be made just in case something more serious happens in the future.
Some common symptoms include:
-Discoloration of the skin
-Moistness, odor, pus, and swelling
-Tearing on the skin, usually happens around the more bony areas
There are four stages in diagnosing the severity of the sore:
- The darker skin does not turn white when pressed
- Blisters and abrasions begin to form
- Skin loss to underlying tissue
- Skin loss extends beyond the underlying areas
The causes of bed sores is immobility due to confinement to a bed, wheelchair, couch, chair, etc. Those with the inability to change positions and in conjunction with bodily functions (urine, saliva, feces, etc.) causing moisture to form will most likely have bed sores form.
Cleanliness
Keeping the skin clean and dry is very important and will reverse the early signs of bed sores.
Massage
Massage the area around the sore will help increase the blood flow thus allowing the body to heal itself.
Support
Pillows, cushions, and air mattresses will allow the patient support to change positions frequently to prevent future bed sores and help the existing sores heal.
Protein
Consume a healthy amount of good protein to allow the muscles and tissues the strength they will need to repair themselves.
*The main thing to consider when a patient has bed sores is constant changing of positions, a clean dry area around the sore (and all other areas), and a good diet to help heal the area. You might also consider a larger dose of vitamin C & E.
