Overview: Bedsores - also called pressure ulcers and decubitus ulcers - damage to the skin and subcutaneous tissue caused by prolonged pressure on the skin. Bedsores usually appear on the skin covering the skeletal areas of the body, such as the heels, ankles, waist, and tail bone. People who are at risk of developing red ulcers have health conditions that limit their ability to change positions or cause them to spend more time in bed or chair. Bedsores can develop over hours or days. Most wounds heal with treatment, but some do not completely recover. You can take steps to help prevent sleep sores and help them to heal. Symptoms: Warning signs of bedsores or pressure ulcers are: Unusual changes in skin color or texture, inflammation and redness. The area of skin that feels cooler or warmer when touched than other areas. Tender areas: Bedsores fall into one of several categories based on their depth, durability and other characteristics. The degree of damage to the skin and tissues ranges from red, unbroken skin to severe injuries involving the muscles and bones. Common areas of pressure ulcers: For people who use wheelchairs, sleeping sores often appear on the skin at the following sites: buttocks, shoulders and spine and the back of the arms and legs where he rests against the chair. For people who need to stay in bed, bedsores can occur: The back or sides of the head, shoulders, hip, lower back or tail bone and heels, ankles and skin behind the knees. When to see a doctor? If you notice warning signs of bedsore, change your position to reduce pressure in the area. If you do not see well in 24 to 48 hours, consult your doctor. Get medical help immediately if you show signs of infection, such as a cold, watery discharge, a foul-smelling ulcer, or an increase in pus, warmth or swelling near the wound. Causes: Bedsores are caused by pressure on the skin that prevents blood from flowing to the skin. Limited movement can put the skin at risk of injury and lead to the development of ulcers. The three main causes of bedsores are: Pressure, constant pressure on any part of your body can reduce blood flow to the muscles. Blood flow is essential for the delivery of oxygen and other nutrients to the muscles. Without these essential nutrients, the skin and tissues nearby may become damaged and may eventually die. In people with limited mobility, this type of compression often occurs in areas where there is a shortage of muscle or fat and lying on the bone, such as the spine, tail, shoulders, hips, heels, and elbows. Friction: The rash occurs when the skin rubs against clothing or bedding. It can put vulnerable skin at risk, especially if the skin is also wet. Shear: Shaving occurs when two areas move in the opposite direction. For example, if the bed is high on the head, you can slide down on the bed. As the tail bone goes down, the skin on the bone may remain in place - it is actually pulling in the opposite direction. Risk factors: Your risk of having bedsores is higher if you have difficulty moving and cannot easily change position while sitting or lying down. Risks include: Immobility: This may be due to poor health, spinal cord injuries, and other causes. Inability to control oneself: The skin is most vulnerable to prolonged exposure to urine and feces. Lack of sensory perception: Spinal cord injury, neurological disorders, and other conditions can cause hearing loss. Inability to feel pain or discomfort can result in not recognizing the warning signs and the need to change the location. Malnutrition and dehydration: People need enough fluids, calories, proteins, vitamins and minerals in their daily diet to maintain healthy skin and prevent muscle wasting. Medical conditions affecting blood flow. Health problems that can affect blood flow, such as diabetes and arthritis, can increase the risk of tissue damage such as bedsores.
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