🩹 Pressure sores: understand everything to prevent them better! 🩹
Bedsores, the sores that appear on the skin due to prolonged pressure, can be very painful and complicate the lives of many people. But don't panic, by being well informed and adopting the right reflexes, they can be effectively prevented!
What is a pressure sore? A bedsore is a bit like a “pressure sore”. When you stay in the same position (sitting or lying down) for too long, the pressure on the skin prevents the blood from circulating properly. Without blood, skin cells die and a wound forms.
Who's at risk? The people most at risk are those with reduced mobility:
- the elderly
- sick people confined to bed
- People suffering from paralysis
Areas most affected: Pressure sores often appear on prominent bony areas such as :
- Heels
- Elbows
- shoulder blades
- Hips
- buttocks
Symptoms to watch out for:
- Redness that doesn't go away
- Hot or hard skin
- A blister
- An open wound
How to prevent bedsores
- Change position regularly: Move around as much as possible, even if only a little.
- Use suitable cushions and mattresses: They distribute pressure and relieve sensitive areas.
- Take care of your skin: Moisturize it regularly and make sure it's neither too dry nor too damp.
- Eat a balanced diet: Good nutrition promotes healing.
Treatment: If a pressure sore appears, it's important to consult a healthcare professional. Treatment will depend on the severity of the wound, and may include :
- Specific dressings
- Medication
- Surgery in the most serious cases
Remember: prevention is the best weapon against pressure sores! By being vigilant and adopting the right gestures, you can considerably improve your quality of life and that of your loved ones.
