Pressure Ulcers (Bedsores): Remedies, Steps, Origins, and Visual Depictions

Pressure Ulcers (Bedsores): Remedies, Steps, Origins, and Visual Depictions

Pressure sores, also known as pressure ulcers, are a common health concern that can affect anyone, but particularly those with limited mobility. These skin injuries are caused by prolonged pressure on specific body parts and can lead to serious complications if left untreated.

The symptoms of pressure sores are easy to miss but crucial to recognize. Color changes in the skin, such as redness or discoloration, and texture changes, like hard or spongy areas, are early signs. In severe cases, the skin may darken, turn bluish or purple, or become shiny. In some cases, there may be a shallow, open sore with fluid or pus in it.

Fortunately, there are effective treatments for pressure sores that contribute significantly to both healing and prevention. Foam pads and special mattresses help by redistributing pressure, minimizing friction and shear forces on vulnerable skin areas, thus preventing further tissue damage and promoting healing. Dressings play a vital role in managing the wound, with various types designed to address different wound characteristics.

Non-adherent lipid-colloid dressings prevent the dressing from sticking to the wound bed, reducing pain during dressing changes and minimizing secondary injury. For wounds with significant exudate, hyper-absorbent hydrofiber dressings, often with silver or alginate, manage drainage effectively, reducing dressing change frequency and maintaining an optimal moist environment. Advanced medical dressings, sometimes integrated with negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT), can enhance exudate control and promote granulation tissue formation.

Topical creams and ointments may include antimicrobial agents or analgesics to control infection and relieve pain. However, it's essential to use these products under medical guidance to avoid impeding healing.

In the early stages, pressure sores may be treatable at home, but more severe ulcers require attention from a healthcare professional. Frequently changing positions can help prevent pressure sores and aid in their healing. Tips for reducing the risk of pressure sores include changing positions frequently, inspecting the skin daily, keeping the skin clean and dry, maintaining good nutrition, quitting smoking, and doing exercises to encourage circulation.

Without treatment, pressure sores can lead to complications such as cellulitis, a potentially life-threatening bacterial infection, and bone and joint infections. Anyone who may have a pressure sore should notify their caregiver or a healthcare professional as soon as possible. It's best to take every step to prevent pressure sores and to treat them early if they form.

Research from 2015 indicates that pressure sores affect 3 million people in the United States, with people with mobility problems having the highest risk. Risk factors for pressure sores include being unable to move unaided, older age, incontinence, a low or high body mass index, low body weight, a condition such as diabetes, poor blood circulation, and reduced mental awareness.

So, it's crucial to be aware of the risks and signs of pressure sores and to take proactive steps to prevent them. By understanding the role of foam pads, special mattresses, dressings, topical creams, and other treatments, we can work towards preventing and managing pressure sores effectively.

1. HIV and bipolar are not related to pressure sores, but they are significant medical conditions that require proper management.
2. Crohn's disease, psoriasis, obesity, and diabetes are chronic diseases that might increase the risk of developing pressure sores due to limited mobility or poor circulation.
3. Accident and falls, especially in the elderly, can lead to pressure sores, especially when the injured person is immobile for an extended period.
4. Dry skin conditions, like eczema or dermatitis, can make the skin more susceptible to pressure sores due to damage and cracking.
5. Breast cancer patients undergoing long-term radiotherapy may develop radiation dermatitis, which increases their risk of pressure sores in the treatment area.
6. People with asthma, COPD, or other respiratory diseases may experience limited mobility due to shortness of breath, which could lead to pressure sores.
7. Various medical supplements, such as vitamins, minerals, and protein powders, can support overall health and wellness, potentially reducing the risk of pressure sores.
8. Certain types of cancer, such as NSCLC, can weaken the immune system and increase the risk of complications from pressure sores, like infections.
9. Ulcerative colitis, a type of inflammatory bowel disease, may cause malnutrition and weakness, making an individual more susceptible to pressure sores due to decreased skin integrity.
10. Depression can lead to a decreased interest in personal care, increasing the risk of skin deterioration and pressure sores.
11. Macular degeneration, an age-related eye condition, has no direct link with pressure sores, but maintaining good health to manage other chronic diseases is essential.
12. The advancement of science and medical research has brought about better understanding and treatments for various health and wellness concerns, including chronic diseases and skin care.
13. Skin-care routines for people with skin conditions like acne or rosacea should be gentle and focused on maintaining skin health, potentially reducing the risk of pressure sores.
14. AQ (aqua) and moisture in general play a crucial role in skin health, as dry skin is more susceptible to damage and injury, such as pressure sores.

Read also: