
Overview
Ulcers which occur on the skin surface due to prolonged pressure. Lying in bed with out movement (bedridden), sitting on a wheelchair or a cast used for prolonged period may cause sores.
Symptoms
Symptoms include redness, ulceration, chronic wound or swelling.
Causes
Bedsores are caused by sustained pressure, friction or shear on the skin which limits the blood flow.
Diagnosis
Skin examination is done to detect bedsores and assess the damage. Staging of the bed sore is done to determine the best treatment.
→ Common treatment options
→ How is this diagnosed?
Highlights
- Treatable by a medical professional
- Can usually be self-diagnosed
- Doesn’t require lab test or imaging
- Can last several months
- Can be dangerous or life threatening if untreated
- Urgent medical attention recommended
Medications
Antibiotics (topical or oral): To stop the growth of or kill the bacteria.
Erythromycin . Tetracycline
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): To manage pain.
Ibuprofen
→ Questions to ask your doctor
→ Interested to know more? Check out the full article here