Bed sores are wounds that develop when constant pressure reduces blood flow to certain areas of your skin and underlying tissue. Bed sores typically appear in immobile patients who stay in one place (such as a bed) all day. Let’s walk through everything you need to know about preventing and managing bed sores.
What Causes Bed Sores?
Bed sores happen when you stay in one position for too long. The weight of your body pressing against mattresses, wheelchairs, or other surfaces can cut off blood circulation to vulnerable areas. Without proper blood flow, skin tissue begins to break down.
Common spots where bed sores develop include the tailbone, heels, hips, shoulders, and back of the head. These areas have less natural padding between your bones and skin, making them more susceptible to pressure damage.
Recognizing the Warning Signs
Early detection can prevent bed sores from becoming severe. Watch for these signs:
- Stage 1 bed sores appear as red, warm areas that don’t turn white when you press them. The skin stays intact but may feel tender or itchy.
- Stage 2 sores look like shallow, open wounds or blisters. The surrounding skin might appear red or purple.
- Stages 3 and 4 are more serious, involving deeper tissue damage that requires immediate medical attention.
Prevention Strategies That Work
The good news is that most bed sores are preventable. If you must remain in one position for a while, use these strategies.
Change Positions Regularly
If you’re bedridden, try to shift your weight every 15 minutes. If that’s not possible, have someone help you change positions at least every two hours.
Keep Your Skin Clean and Dry
Moisture from sweat or incontinence can make skin more vulnerable to breaking down. Use gentle, fragrance-free cleansers and moisturizers to cleanse your skin.
Maintain Good Nutrition
Eating protein-rich foods and staying hydrated helps your skin stay healthy and heal faster if injuries occur.
Use Proper Support Surfaces
Make sure to choose a pressure-relief mattress that distributes your weight more evenly than a standard mattress.
Inspect Your Skin Daily
Have yourself or your caregiver check for any red spots, swelling, or unusual warmth on your skin.
The main thing to know about bed sores is that you can avoid most instances with these prevention techniques. If an ulcer does form, don’t panic. Contact your doctor for immediate treatment.
