According to the Ministry of Health (MOH), the first step in treating a bedsore is reducing the pressure and friction that caused it, by following these tips: reducing pressure, repositioning, using support surfaces, cleaning and dressing wounds and putting on a bandage.
Through an Infographic published in its twitter page, MOH indicated that the bedsore symptoms include: unusual changes in skin color, swelling, pus-like draining, feeling pain in these areas, and an area of skin that feels cooler or warmer to the touch than other areas. It pointed out that people most at risk of bedsores are those with a medical condition that limits their ability to change positions or those who spend most of their time in a bed.
It said that methods of prevention include: shifting weight frequently to avoid stress on the skin. It underlined the importance of following these recommendations related to repositioning in a bed, selecting cushions or a mattress that relieves pressure, adjusting the elevation of bed if the bed can be elevated, raise it no more than 30 degrees. It also provided tips for skin care, including: keep skin clean and dry, and wash the skin with a gentle cleanser and pat dry, do this cleansing routine regularly to limit the skin's exposure to moisture. Protect the skin by using special powder to protect skin at friction points, apply lotion to dry skin, and change bedding and clothing frequently if needed.
It is to be noted that the bedsores — also called pressure ulcers — are injuries to skin and underlying tissue resulting from prolonged pressure on the skin. Bedsores most often develop on skin that covers bony areas of the body, such as the heels, ankles, hips and tailbone. Bedsores fall into one of several stages based on their depth, severity and other characteristics. The degree of skin and tissue damage ranges from red, unbroken skin to a deep injury involving muscle and bone.