Bedsore (patient information)
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Bedsore |
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(Condition) On the Web |
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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1] Assistant Editor(s)-In-Chief: Meagan Doherty
Overview
A Bedsore is a area of skin that becomes damaged and breaks down. Ultimately, this damaged area of skin forms an open sore. Bedsore's are caused by constant pressure on certain areas of skin usually as a result of being immobile for too long (i.e. sitting or lying in one position without moving.)
What are the symptoms of Bedsore?
The symptoms of a Bedsore depend on how severe it is. Bedsores are classified in the following stages. Stage I (earliest signs) and Stage IV (worst):
- Stage I: A reddened area on the skin that, when pressed, does not turn white. This indicates that a pressure ulcer is starting to develop.
- Stage II: The skin blisters or forms an open sore. The area around the sore may be red and irritated.
- Stage III: The skin breakdown now looks like a crater. There is damage to the tissue below the skin.
- Stage IV: The pressure ulcer has become so deep that there is damage to the muscle and bone, and sometimes to tendons and joints.
Who is at highest risk?
People at the highest risk for developing a Bedsore include:
- Individuals who are bedridden
- Individuals bound to a wheelchair
- Malnourishment
- Risk increases with age
- Individuals with a injury or disease that may limit mobility (i.e. spinal cord injury)
- Individuals with a condition that may inhibit blood flow to certain areas of the body (i.e. diabetes)
- Individuals with urinary or bowel incontinence
- Individuals with a mental condition that may affect mobility (i.e. Alzheimer's)
When to seek urgent medical care?
Diagnosis
Treatment options
Diseases with similar symptoms
Where to find medical care for Bedsore?
Directions to Hospitals Treating Condition