Causes and Treatment of Bed Sores

Pressure sores or bed sores are caused owing to the necessity to stay in the same position for a longer duration. These are generally areas of damaged skin which form in regions where bones are very close to skin such as back, ankles, heels, elbows and hips.

You are prone to develop this condition if you are wheel chair bound, are bedridden or have difficulty in changing your position. Pressure sores can become serious and life-threatening also. For patients in nursing homes, this can turn out to be a serious problem.

Bed sores can be prevented by changing your position at least every 2 hours, by keeping your skin dry and clean and using products such as pillows to relieve pressure. There are several treatments that can be resorted to for treating bed sores. Early treatment is recommended because advanced sores can take a long time to heal.

You must take care to relieve pressure on that part of the body as soon as you notice a bed sore developing in that region. You can lower pressure in that area by using clean foam under-lays. If it is not a serious type of sore only this method can control the problem and the sore can heal on its own.

You can apply absorbent foam-like bandages if more aggressive treatment is requires and these bandages can be changed frequently. You can also protect the region by using special water based suspension dressings which can cover the site and thereby give protection.

You can make use of antibiotic ointment for preventing infection in the region. Moist areas can be treated by the application of topical zinc oxide ointment. Debridement may be recommended for advanced sores. Systemic antibiotic treatment may also be prescribed to fight infection. Treatment will vary depending on the severity of infection and it can become difficult once the skin is broken.