What are bedsores, how to care for them and how to prevent them?

Pressure sores, also known as skin sores or traumatic pressure sores, are a painful health problem that can affect both older people and those who lead a sedentary or lying lifestyle.

In this article, we will discuss what pressure sores are, what are the causes of their formation, classification, treatment, care, and we will also focus on anti-decubitus prevention.

What are pressure ulcers?

Pressure ulcers are injuries to the skin and soft tissue that occur as a result of pressure and friction, usually in areas where the skin is in contact with the ground, such as bones, tendons or cartilage. These are serious skin lesions that can lead to infections and complications, especially in people who are unable to change their body position on their own.

What are the causes of their formation?

Bedsores develop mainly due to long-term pressure and load on specific parts of the body. There are several factors that increase the risk of developing pressure ulcers:

• Immobility: Maintaining one body position for a long time, especially in people lying in bed or sitting in armchairs.
• Improper skin hydration: Dry skin is more susceptible to damage.
• Poor nutrition: Deficiency of adequate nutrients weakens the skin.
• Impaired blood circulation: People with limited blood flow have a higher risk of pressure ulcers.

Bedsores – degrees. pressure ulcer classification

Pressure ulcers can be classified according to their severity:

• Grade I: A red, non-sore spot on the skin that does not fade under pressure. This is the initial stage of pressure ulcers.
• Stage II: Appearance of an open ulcer or blister.
• Stage III: Loss of fat and muscle tissue in the area of the pressure ulcer.
• Stage IV: Advanced loss of muscle tissue and occurrence of deep ulcers.

Bedsores – treatment and care

Treatment of pressure ulcers depends on the stage of advancement. In the case of stage I and II pressure ulcers:

• Avoid further pressure on the pressure ulcer area.
• Change your body position regularly.
• Use special dressings and ointments to accelerate healing.

Stage III and IV pressure ulcers require more advanced care, often requiring surgical intervention. Pressure sore care should be carried out under the supervision of a doctor or nurse.

Anti-decubitus prevention

To avoid the formation of pressure sores, it is worth following several rules of prevention:

• Change your body position regularly, especially if you lie or sit for a long time.
• Keep your skin properly moisturized by using moisturizing creams.
• Regularly assess the condition of your skin, especially areas exposed to pressure.
• Maintain a proper, nutrient-rich diet.

Your suggestions

Always remember that prevention is key to avoiding pressure sores. If you have any concerns or need advice about caring for someone who is lying or sitting for long periods of time, please consult your doctor or nursing specialist.

Recommended articles

If you want to learn more about skin care, prevention or other aspects of health, we recommend reading the following articles:

• “How to take care of your skin in winter?”
• “The impact of nutrition on skin condition”
• “Sedentary lifestyle and health – how to take care of yourself?”

Remember that healthy skin is an important element of your overall health, so it is worth taking care of it and consciously preventing problems such as bedsores.