Bedsores, also referred to as pressure sores, decubitis ulcers and pressure ulcers, form when sustained pressure or friction causes breakdown over bony areas in the body, such as the tailbone, heels and knees, due to a decrease in blood flow to the areas. Bed- or wheelchair-bound individuals are most at risk for developing bedsores. Pressure sores fall into four classifications, and treatment depends on the severity of the condition.
Removing Pressure and Friction
The first treatment for a bedsore is to remove all pressure from the area. The existing sore will not heal without correcting the existing problem. Positioning the body in bed and using props such as pillows and cushions helps remove the pressure. Turning at least every two hours helps prevent new bedsores from forming. While sitting in a wheelchair, specialized cushions relieve the pressure off the sore. Applying body powder to skin in areas that may retain moisture, such as in the groin, helps reduce friction, and keeping the area dry reduces the risk of creating additional pressure ulcers.
Diet
A proper diet with adequate nutrition and hydration needs to be followed in order for the wounds to heal. A high-protein diet with increased amounts of vitamin C and zinc may also speed up healing, notes Merck.com.
Cleaning
Cleaning bedsores helps prevent infection and promotes healing. The first stage of a pressure sore includes redness and inflammation in the affected area, without any open wounds. Cleaning the area with a mild soap and water is sufficient for this stage.
For bedsores with open wounds, rinsing with a saline solution helps remove loose material and excess fluid from the wound.
Dressings
Bedsores without an open wound need a clear dressing placed over the affected areas to allow the skin to heal without additional friction on the wound. For open wounds, using a bandage helps the wounds heal and decreases the risk of developing an infection. One dressing option includes placing a bandage with a gel that molds to the body to promote healing, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians. This dressing stays in place for several days at a time before changing. For deep pressure ulcers, wetting gauze with saline and inserting it into the wound may increase healing. As the gauze dries, it soaks up the excess fluid from the wound and sticks to the surface. Pulling out the gauze helps remove any loose tissue from the wound during a dressing change. Gauze dressings require changing once or twice daily.
Surgery
Pressure ulcers may have dead tissue in the bed of the wound. In addition to using gauze dressings, surgical removal of the tissue may become necessary. For extensive bedsores, a surgeon may place a skin or muscle flap to help heal the wound.
