“May all be happy, may all be healed, may all be at peace and may no one ever suffer."
Bedsores, also known as pressure ulcers or decubitus ulcers, are injuries to the skin and underlying tissues that occur due to prolonged pressure on the skin. Bedsores often occur in people who are bedridden or wheelchair-bound and can develop in as little as two hours.
Bedsores typically occur in areas where the skin is in direct contact with a surface, such as the back of the head, shoulders, elbows, hips, and heels. The severity of bedsores can range from mild redness to deep wounds that expose underlying bone and muscle.
Prevention is the key to avoiding bedsores. Some strategies to prevent bedsores include:
Treatment for bedsores depends on the severity of the injury. Mild bedsores can often be treated with measures such as changing positions frequently, keeping the wound clean and dry, and applying a protective dressing. More severe bedsores may require medical intervention, such as surgical debridement to remove dead tissue, antibiotics to prevent infection, and specialized wound care.
It is important to speak with a healthcare professional if you or a loved one is at risk for bedsores or if you notice any signs of skin breakdown, such as redness or discoloration. Early detection and intervention can prevent bedsores from developing into serious and potentially life-threatening infections.