(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.
