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.
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