If you or someone you care for spends long hours sitting or lying down, pressure ulcers are a real risk. These sore spots develop when blood can’t reach the skin, leaving tissue hungry for oxygen. The good news? Most of them can be stopped before they start, and early treatment works fast.
Pressure ulcers are graded in four stages. Stage 1 looks like a red patch that doesn’t turn white when you press it. Stage 2 is a shallow open wound, kind of like a blister or scrape. By stage 3, deeper skin layers are gone and you see a crater‑shaped sore. Stage 4 is the worst – muscle, tendon, even bone can be exposed.
Knowing the stage helps decide what to do next. Small red spots need quick pressure relief and moisturising; deeper sores may require dressings, antibiotics, or professional wound care.
1. Move often. Change position every two hours if you’re in a chair or bed. Even a tiny shift eases pressure on vulnerable spots like the hips and heels.
2. Use supportive surfaces. A foam cushion for chairs or an alternating‑pressure mattress can spread weight more evenly.
3. Keep skin clean and dry. Sweat and moisture break down skin faster, so wipe gently after bathing and use barrier creams where needed.
4. Check the skin daily. Look for redness, warmth, or a change in texture. Early detection stops the problem from getting bigger.
5. Stay hydrated and eat well. Proper nutrition fuels skin repair. Protein‑rich foods, vitamin C, zinc, and plenty of water are your allies.
If a sore does form, start with clean dressings that keep the wound moist but not soggy. Over‑the‑counter antibiotic ointments can help prevent infection for small wounds. For deeper ulcers, doctors may prescribe oral antibiotics or recommend prescription‑strength creams.
Canadian online pharmacies often carry wound‑care products at lower prices. Look for reputable sites offering bulk discounts on dressings, barrier creams, and nutritional supplements that support healing.
In severe cases, a healthcare professional might need to debride the wound (remove dead tissue) or use advanced therapies like negative‑pressure wound therapy. These steps speed recovery but should be done under medical supervision.
If you notice any of these signs, get help right away: sudden pain, foul odor, pus leaking from the sore, or if the ulcer looks larger than before. An infection can spread fast and become dangerous.
Most pressure ulcers improve with proper care, but ignoring them can lead to serious complications like bone infection. Staying proactive—moving, checking skin, using the right products—keeps you safe.
Remember, preventing pressure ulcers is about simple habits done consistently. A little attention each day pays off with healthier skin and fewer doctor visits.
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