Pressure ulcers are known by several different names including bedsores and decubitis ulcers. The skin condition occurs when healthy tissue is compressed between bone and a hard surface causing decreased circulation. Merck Manual reports old age, impaired circulation and incontinence as risk factors in developing pressure ulcers. The most prominent place for pressure ulcers includes the buttocks, elbows, heels and hips. The sores are categorized in stages, with stage one being a beginning pressure ulcer and stage four being the worst.
Sensation
The skin may initially feel numb, tingle or have a "pins and needles" sensation. The area may become painful or have an itching sensation. The skin is warm to touch and may feel firm. Removing pressure during this stage stops the pressure ulcer from forming. However, as the pressure continues, a person may no longer have any sensation to pain in the affected area. As an open pressure sore forms, the nerves surrounding the ulcers may deteriorate causing loss of sensation.
Coloration and Formation
Initially the skin appears red in patients who have lighter skin colors. African-Americans, Hispanics and others with darker skin, may initially experience an area with purple or blue discoloration; the skin may also look flaky or ashy, reports MayoClinic.com. As the pressure continues, the wound opens and the exposed skin is purple or red in discoloration. A crater or hole may begin to form from the exposed tissue. Further tunneling may occur as the ulcer grows deeper into tissue.
Infection
Pressure sores often become infected. A common sign of infection include a foul odor from the wound site. Yellow or green discharge may form at the ulcer site. Proper wound management is critical if infection occurs to prevent complications. Surrounding skin can feel extremely warm, a sign of cellulites, reports Merck Manual. The infection may continue and infect nearby bones causing osteomyelitis. Left untreated, the infection may result in limb amputation or become life threatening. Fever and chills are signs of sepsis, the result of the infection reaching the bloodstream.
