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Pressure ulcer - Overview

Alternative Names

Bedsore; Decubitus ulcer

Definition of Pressure ulcer:

A pressure ulcer is an area of skin that breaks down when constant pressure is placed against the skin.

Causes:

Pressure against the skin reduces blood supply to that area, and the affected tissue dies. This may happen when you stay in one position for too long without shifting your weight. You might get a pressure ulcer if you use a wheelchair or are confined to a bed, even for a short period of time (for example, after surgery or an injury).

The following factors increase the risk for pressure ulcers:

  • Being bedridden or in a wheelchair
  • Being older
  • Being unable to move certain parts of your body without help, such as after a spine or brain injury or if you have a disease like multiple sclerosis
  • Having a chronic condition, such as diabetes or vascular disease, that prevents areas of the body from receiving proper blood flow
  • Having a mental disability from conditions such as Alzheimer's disease
  • Having fragile skin
  • Having urinary incontinence or bowel incontinence
  • Not getting enough nourishment (malnourishment)
  • Reviewed last on: 11/22/2010
  • Richard J. Moskowitz, MD, Private Practice, Mineola, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

References

Fonder MA, Lazarus GS, Cowan DA, Aronson-Cook B, Kohli AR, Mamelak AJ. Treating the chronic wound: a practical approach to the care of nonhealing wounds and wound care dressings. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2008;58(2):185-206.

Bluestein D, Javaheri A. Pressure ulcers: prevention, evaluation, and management. Am Fam Physician. 2008;78(10):1186-1194.

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The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997- A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
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