What are Pressure Sores?

Pressure sores (also known as pressure ulcers or bedsores) are injuries to the skin and underlying tissue, primarily caused by prolonged pressure on the skin

They are painful and debilitating and can cause serious harm. They can develop within hours and although generally affect older people anyone who is immobile for a period of time can be at risk.

Pressure sores happen when people remain in one position for too long. People who are unable to reposition themselves are particularly at risk. It is estimated that several thousand people develop pressure sores each year which is a shocking figure because in most cases they are preventable with proper nursing care.

Pressure sores can affect any part of the body that's put under pressure. They're most common on bony parts of the body, such as the heels, elbows, hips and base of the spine.

The first signs of a pressure sore would be discoloration of the skin. If you apply gentle pressure and the skin does not turn white when pressed or feels warm or itchy then these are the early signs that damage may have occurred.

If left to develop the damage can spread to your underlying tissue and in severe cases, there can be permanent damage to muscle or bone underneath your skin. Pressure sores can be very painful and can take a very long time to heal and can cause other issues such as infections and even sepsis.

It is important that if you or a loved one are seeing signs of skin damage that you contact a medical professional as soon as possible to prevent further and longer lasting damage.

The most common system for assessing pressure sores, classifies them based upon the depth of skin damage, ranging from the least severe (stage 1) to the most severe (stage 4).

If you or a loved one has suffered with pressure sores find out today if they are due compensation by contacting a member of our team.