Overview
Bedsores are wounds that occur from prolonged pressure on your skin. People who are immobile for long periods, such as those who are bedridden or use a wheelchair, are most at risk for bedsores. These painful wounds, or pressure ulcers, can grow large and lead to infections. In some instances, bedsores can be life-threatening.
What are other names for bedsores?
You may also hear these terms for bedsores:
- Decubitus ulcers.
- Pressure injuries.
- Pressure sores.
- Pressure ulcers.
- Pressure wounds.
How common are bedsores?
Experts estimate that 2.5 million Americans develop bedsores every year. Anyone can get bedsores.
What parts of your body do bedsores affect?
Bedsores can begin anywhere. For example, people who use oxygen therapy can develop pressure sores on the bridges of their noses, ears or the backs of their heads. Pressure ulcers can also form inside your mouth from ill-fitting dentures, intubations or mechanical ventilation.
But bedsores are most likely to develop on the parts of your body where your bones sit closest to your skin, such as your:
- Ankles.
- Back.
- Buttocks.
- Elbows.
- Heels.
- Hips.
- Tailbone.
Symptoms
When to see a doctor
Complications
- High blood pressure.
- Diabetes.
- Heart failure.
- Some types of heart valve disease.
Prevention
- Control high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes.
- Don't smoke or use tobacco.
- Eat a diet that's low in salt and saturated fat.
- Exercise at least 30 minutes a day on most days of the week unless your health care team says not to.
- Get good sleep. Adults should aim for 7 to 9 hours daily.
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Reduce and manage stress.
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