What are the causes of bedsores? Bedsores, also known as pressure ulcers, are a common complication among patients who have been bedridden for a long time due to chronic illness. According to relevant literature reports, approximately 60,000 people die each year from complications related to bedsores. So, how can we help high-risk populations avoid bedsores? First, we need to understand the series of factors that lead to bedsores. Director Zhao Jianlin from Taiyuan Traditional Chinese Medicine Bedsore Hospital in Shanxi will provide a detailed analysis of the causes of bedsores.
**What are the causes of bedsores?**
1. **Prolonged Pressure on Local Areas**: Vertical pressure is a major factor causing bedsores. Generally, the blood vessels under the skin can withstand a pressure of about 32 mmHg. If the pressure exceeds this level, local blood vessels may become distorted or deformed, affecting blood flow and leading to ischemia, which can easily result in bedsores. For patients who are bedridden for a long time, if their position is not changed for extended periods, it can cause circulatory disorders, leading to tissue malnutrition and subsequently bedsores. Solution: Help the patient turn over every 2-3 hours, not exceeding 4 hours. Additionally, when assisting the patient in turning over, avoid dragging, pulling, or pushing actions to prevent skin abrasions.
2. **Local Friction and Contamination**: Friction is another significant factor in causing bedsores. Friction on the skin can easily damage the keratin layer, reducing the skin's resistance. Moreover, if damaged skin is frequently exposed to moisture and contamination, such as excessive sweating, incontinence, secretions, or vomit, bacteria can proliferate. Combined with reduced skin resistance, bacteria can easily invade, leading to bedsores. Solution: Keep the bedsheet flat, clean, and dry, and ensure the patient’s clothing is frequently washed and changed.
3. **Poor Nutritional Status**: Many people overlook the importance of nutrition in the prevention and care of bedsores. However, poor nutritional status is also a major factor in triggering bedsores. Low serum albumin levels are associated with the development of bedsores. For every 1g decrease in serum albumin, the incidence of bedsores increases threefold. Without adequate intake of amino acids, vitamins, and minerals, even slight pressure can cause tissue necrosis. Solution: Ensure a balanced intake of various nutrients to enhance the patient’s immunity and tissue repair capabilities.
4. **Old Age**: Elderly individuals are a high-risk group for bedsores. This is because changes in collagen synthesis in older adults can reduce the mechanical strength of tissues, increase stiffness, and lower the resistance to interstitial fluid flow. Solution: When helping elderly patients move or turn over, consider the fragility of their soft tissues. Movements should be gentle, avoiding rough handling or transportation of the patient.
5. **Inactivity**: Patients who cannot move are at the greatest risk of developing bedsores. Inactive patients, if pressure is not relieved, can develop ulcers in tissues, which is the fundamental cause of bedsores. Solution: Help the patient move as much as possible. Movement not only changes the weight-bearing and pressured areas but also promotes recovery and healing. Auxiliary devices can improve the mobility of long-term bedridden patients. For example, headrests with slanted bars can aid in bed exercises, while sidebars can assist in lateral movements. Mechanical aids such as canes, walkers, and handrails can help injured patients move.
Through reading the above content, we hope everyone has gained some understanding of the causes of bedsores. If you have any further questions regarding the causes of bedsores, please consult the experts at Taiyuan Traditional Chinese Medicine Bedsore Hospital in Shanxi.
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