A decubitus ulcer is also known as a stress ulcer, stress sore, or bedsore. It’s an open wound in the skin. Decubitus ulcers usually occur on the skin covering the bony areas. The most common sites for a decubitus ulcer are the following:
- Hips
- Back
- Ankles
- Buttocks
This condition is common among:
- Older men and women
- Individuals with decreased movement
- Individuals who spend extended durations in mattress or a wheelchair
- People who can’t move about without help
- Persons with delicate skin
The condition is very treatable.
Pressure is one of the foremost factors of a decubitus ulcer. Lying on one side of your body for long periods may cause your skin to breakdown. Your skin is thinner in locations that are adjacent to bone or cartilage. The hips, heels, and backbone are prone to pressure sores.
Decubitus ulcers may ensue while you scrape or scour your skin towards a hard surface. Friction on the skin may harm the outermost layer of skin cells. This layer is known as the epidermis.
Wearing soiled garments or undergarments for long periods of time could create open sores on the skin. This will irritate the delicate external skin layer.
Poor nutrition or not getting adequate nutrients in your diet could affect the health of your skin, which will increase your risk. This includes not taking in adequate water to keep your skin hydrated and to avert dehydration.
Situations like diabetes may impair your blood circulation, which will cause tissue destruction in your skin and increase your risk.