Bedsores, also called decubitus ulcers, have been a well-recognized problem since the birth of medicine. They are widespread, affecting an estimated 9% of all patients in American hospitals. The risks posed by bedsores are well-known in the medical community, and most medical facilities have policies to help prevent and deal with bedsores when they develop. Most at risk are patients who are receiving in-home care, as those without medical training may lack the expertise or resources to adequately address this very serious issue.
Causes
Bedsores develop as a result of constant pressure on certain parts of the body, most commonly the bony protuberances such as elbows and heels. On traditional mattresses, these points come to bear inordinate amounts of body weight, because most beds lack the pressure distribution properties of memory foam or other more advanced materials.
Bedsores begin when external pressure denies blood flow and oxygen to tiny blood vessels near the surface of the skin. This causes the death of the first skin layers, usually manifesting itself as a Longevity Activator Reviews red rash that looks much like a sunburn. Bedsores in this stage are fairly mild and can be successfully treated by simply encouraging air and blood flow. If not managed properly, however, bedsores can eventually spread deeper under the skin, in some cases causing decay of muscle tissue and bone. Bedsores can be very difficult to treat, and severe cases may require amputation or even result in death.
Prevention
Those managing the care of loved ones in the home can take a few steps to reduce the danger associated with bedsores. Hospitals use special beds designed to eliminate pressure points, but these beds can cost upwards of ten thousand dollars. A more affordable option is to look into memory foam mattresses, or memory foam toppers. Memory foam has unique abilities to distribute pressure over wide surface areas. In fact, the first commercial use of memory foam was as a hospital bedding material, designed specifically to reduce the risk of bedsores. A variety of memory foam products by Sleep Aid are available from http://www.healco.com or http://www.sleepaidfactory.com.
For an individual confined to bed, the distribution of weight accomplished by a memory foam mattress or memory foam topper, can help to prevent the excessive pressure that leads to bed sores. An organized and well managed routine for shifting a bedridden individual can also help immensely, by ensuring that no single area is always bearing pressure. Other factors that contribute to bedsores include excessive moisture and friction. Changing linens promptly and using care when moving bedridden individuals can also help to prevent the occurrence of bedsores.
Bedsores are a serious risk to anyone who is confined to a bed with impaired mobility. Memory foam can be a useful tool in combating this dangerous condition, when used in conjunction with regular a care plan.
