How to prevent and treat pressure ulcers?

People who must remain in bed for long periods of time or in the same position for extended periods of time may suffer from pressure ulcers or bedsores. These are a type of injury caused by a lack of blood flow due to the pressure and/or friction of the body against bony or cartilage protrusions.

Although the term "bedsores" is still used, it is a misnomer, as the injuries are not only caused by lying flat, but also by sitting in a wheelchair without correcting the position or using appropriate products to improve ergonomics .

Why do pressure ulcers occur?

Pressure ulcers occur most frequently among older adults , those confined to beds or wheelchairs, and among malnourished children and the elderly, who lack assistance or social or family support.

In many cases, bedsores are not serious and can be healed with simple treatment. However, if left untreated , they can cause deep skin damage and lead to very serious injuries , such as sepsis, general blood infection, gangrene, or tissue death.

What are the most common sites where pressure ulcers appear?

Among the body areas most affected by bedsores, in more than 80% of cases, are: the shoulders or upper back, the elbows, the nape of the neck, the edge of the ears, both knees, heels, or toes.

It can be very severe in the lower back, arms, forearms, and hips, as well as the genitals and under the breasts.

How to detect a pressure ulcer or bedsore?

At first, such an injury may manifest as mild reddening of the skin . But as it progresses into more advanced stages, the skin begins to crack, and severely compromised wounds appear that are difficult to heal .

If not treated quickly after identification, the wound will give way to the appearance of ulcers, so it is important to learn to identify them in time and prevent them from becoming infected .

How to prevent the appearance of pressure ulcers?

• If the patient is bedridden , it is recommended to change position every two hours .
• If the person is in a wheelchair , he or she should try to change position every hour .
• It is advisable to use an anti-bedsore cushion or mattress that eliminates excess pressure, moisture, heat, and reduces friction.
• The patient's skin should be checked daily to avoid dryness.
• The skin should be moisturized using creams, oils or glycerin with gentle massages.
• Under all circumstances, you should avoid leaving your skin moist . It should also be at a suitable temperature.
• In the case of diabetic patients , special care must be taken with the condition of their skin and be alert to any irritation, slight discoloration or wounds.

At Theramart , you can find different models of comfortable and durable anti-bedsore cushions and mattresses to prevent pressure ulcers. They are ideal for both bedridden patients and wheelchair users .

The memory foam present in our therapeutic products helps maintain perfect ergonomics, absorbing impact, relieving pressure and providing balanced support .

If you want to prevent bedsores and improve the quality of life of your loved ones, don't hesitate to check out our products and discover the ideal one for each circumstance and stage of life .

If you're interested in continuing to read about this topic, find out how to treat and moisturize dry skin here. The best tips for you. Click here.