Health Tip: Treating a Bedsore
March 24, 2008, 12:53 AM ET
• 1 min read
Mar. 23 -- (HealthDay News) -- Bedsores are skin injuries that occur when a person stays in one position in a bed, wheelchair, or other device for long periods. With continued pressure on the same area, the skin begins to break down, creating a sore.
The U.S. National Library of Medicine offers these suggestions to treat a bedsore:
Immediately relieve pressure on the skin, using pillows, foam cushions or sheepskin.Clean and treat the sore regularly and thoroughly, according to your doctor's instructions. Proper cleaning is a must to prevent infection.Rinse the skin regularly with a salt water solution to help remove any loose, dead tissue around the area.Reduce friction and trauma to the skin by sprinkling the linens or chair with a light powder.Eat a healthy, balanced diet and treat any underlying conditions that can impede the healing process.