Pressure ulcers can Lead to Big Complications
A pressure ulcer is a wound that forms on the skin and underlying tissue due to pressure, shear, or friction. These wounds can be minor or lead to more severe health complications.
This blog post will learn more about the potential dangers of pressure ulcers and how to prevent them.
Cellulitis
If a pressure ulcer goes untreated, it can lead to cellulitis, a potentially serious bacterial infection. Cellulitis can cause the skin to become red, swollen, and painful. It can also lead to fever, chills, and difficulty breathing. If it is not treated urgently, cellulitis can spread to other body parts and cause serious health complications. Treatment for cellulitis typically involves antibiotics and wound care. If you have a pressure ulcer, it’s essential to seek treatment right away to reduce your risk of developing cellulitis.
Bone and Joint infections
Bed pressure ulcers can lead to bone and joint infections. The bacteria that cause these infections can enter the bloodstream and spread throughout the body, leading to serious health complications. In some cases, the infection can even be fatal.
You must seek medical treatment if you develop a pressure ulcer as soon as possible. With early intervention, you can avoid these potentially life-threatening infections.
Cancer
If left untreated, pressure ulcers can lead to many complications, including infection and cell death. In some cases, pressure ulcers can also cause cancer. The pressure from a pressure ulcer can damage DNA and trigger the development of cancerous cells.
The open wound created by a pressure ulcer also provides an entry point for cancer-causing viruses and bacteria. As a result, pressure ulcers can have devastating consequences if they are not treated promptly and effectively.
Sepsis
Sepsis is a potentially life-threatening and deleterious condition that occurs when an infection spreads throughout the body. Pressure ulcers are a common source of sepsis, as they allow bacteria to enter the bloodstream. Once bacteria have entered the bloodstream, they can quickly multiply and spread throughout the body.
Sepsis can cause organ damage and failure, making it very difficult to treat. In some cases, sepsis can even lead to death. Pressure ulcers are a serious health concern and should be treated immediately to reduce the risk of sepsis.
How to prevent complications of bed sores
Bed sores, also known as pressure ulcers, are serious complications that can occur when a person is confined to bed for an extended period. Bed sores can quickly become infected without proper care, leading to serious health problems. The best way to prevent complications from bed sores is to take proactive steps to prevent them from developing in the first place.
This includes maintaining good hygiene, keeping the skin clean and dry, and regularly changing positions. It is also essential to avoid putting unnecessary pressure on any one area of the body. By taking these simple precautions, it is possible to reduce the risk of developing bed sores significantly.
References
- Pressure sores – Better Health Channel. (2017). Vic.gov.au. https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/pressure-sores