Pressure ulcers are also commonly known as bedsores or decubitus ulcers. They result from prolonged pressure on the skin, causing injuries to the skin and underlying tissues. Pressure sores mostly develop in bony areas like the ankles, heels, tailbone, and hips. Moreover, bedridden individuals are more prone to pressure ulcers due to their inability to move. Bed sores develop if proper care is not taken to prevent them. Pressure sores can be categorized according to their depth and severity and the amount of damage caused, ranging from redness and unbroken skin to deep tissue injuries, sometimes reaching up to the bones. We at HPFY aim to make health and wellness accessible to all and thus provide you with a wide range of Pressure Sore Prevention Products from top manufacturers at the best prices!

Pressure Ulcer Symptoms

People with high body weight and obesity are more prone to pressure sores
Changes in skin color or texture in the areas under pressure
Swelling
Drainage of pus-like fluid
Some areas feel cooler or hotter than other areas
Skin tenderness
Wheelchair-confined individuals experience pressure ulcers on the tailbone, hips, shoulder blades, spine, and on the backs of arms, legs, or areas that rest against the wheelchair
People who are bedridden experience pressure sores on the back of the head, shoulder blades, ankles, tailbone, heels, and behind the knees

Causes of Pressure Ulcers

The constant pressure on the skin due to the body weight limits the flow of blood to the skin, obstructing the flow of oxygen and nutrients to the skin tissue, making it vulnerable to damage and hence contributing to the development of pressure ulcers. For bedridden individuals, pressure is more in bony areas where less muscle or fat is present. Friction also plays a role in the development of bed sores. When the fragile skin rubs against clothing or bedding, it can break down, especially in the presence of moisture. Shear occurs when two surfaces rub in opposite directions. In the case of elevated beds, the patient slides down, rubbing the tailbone against the bed, which creates shear. This results in pressure ulcers.

Preventing Pressure Ulcers

Since bedsores or pressure ulcers are often a problem caused by excessive sitting or being bedridden for longer times, prevention relies on managing the equipment one uses. The following pressure sore prevention products can be used to manage as well as prevent bedsores.

Mattresses – A wide range of mattresses, equipped with special features, are designed to prevent bed sores. They provide a comfortable and secure surface that provides good, restful sleep and helps in maintaining mental and physical health. Different mattresses like foam mattresses, innerspring mattresses, combination therapy mattresses, lateral rotation mattresses, and low air loss mattresses are designed with different features to manage bed sores and other bed-related problems. Alternating pressure mattresses are the best choice for managing bed sores. They are one of the most technologically advanced medical mattresses designed to prevent skin breakdown and allow the skin to breathe. They serve as a great protection against bed sores.

Cervical Pillows – Cervical pillows are designed to prevent bed sores in the upper body by raising the head to a comfortable position and allowing the skin to breathe.

There are a few other tips one should follow to prevent bedsores:

Re-positioning the patient from time to time
Checking for redness or rashes on the skin
Check for differences in temperature on the skin
Maintaining proper nutrition for healthier skin

Where can you buy pressure sore prevention products online?

Get a wide range of products for bedsores and pressure ulcers from well-known manufacturers like Posey, Convatec, Smith and Nephew, and many others at the best prices on HPFY.