Bed Sores
What is Bed Sores?
Also known as ulcers or decubitus ulcers, Bedsores are injuries caused when prolonged pressure is applied on the skin while lying down, sitting on a wheelchair, staying in a constant position for long, etc.
Bedsores occur mainly on top of the skin of areas such as hips, ankles, heels, tailbone, etc.
These are most common among frail adults undergoing medical conditions including paralysis, immobility, or someone with difficulty in changing their position frequently.
Though bedsores develop typically in a week or a month, a person may develop them with long hours of inactivity as well.
In some cases, hygiene can also be a cause of bedsores. If a person is bedridden and is not cleaned or given a sponge bath properly, they may be more prone to bedsores.
Causes Of Bedsores
Bedsores are primarily caused when prolonged pressure is applied on the skin, limiting the flow of blood due to inactivity.
The significant reasons for bedsores are:
- Pressure: Bedsores are generally caused by applying constant pressure on a particular area that in turn minimizes the flow of blood to the tissues. It also hampers the flow of oxygen and essential nutrients required by the skin, thus damaging those tissues permanently. Frail people with less fat or muscles surrounding the bones are often more susceptible to developing these ulcers around areas such as the tailbone, spine, hip, shoulders, etc.
- Friction: Rubbing of skin against the clothes or bedding can cause friction, thus making the skin more vulnerable to injury. Sometimes moist skin worsens the situation even further.
- Shear: Shear and friction go hand in hand. Though shear injury cannot be seen on the surface of the skin, it happens when your bone and skin move in opposite directions. For instance, when the head is placed on an elevated position and the tailbone slides down the skin remains at the same place, thus pulling in opposite directions.
How to avoid Bed sores
Use Air Mattress
For a bedridden patient, there are special wheelchairs available that can be tilted to relieve pressure now and then.
If possible try to lift yourself regularly.
Check the skin regularly for any early signs of bedsores. Keep it clean and dry.
In case a patient is bedridden, use sponge baths and anti-bacterial wet wipes to keep the skin clean and free from moisture.
Maintain proper hygiene while using Adult Diapers.