Signs of bedsores (pressure ulcers)

Pressure ulcers (or bedsores) are skin wounds caused by prolonged pressure on an area of skin, and are usually the result of confinement to a bed or chair for long periods of time. The most common areas to check for bedsores are the tailbone, buttocks, heels, elbows, knees and back of the head.

These are the common signs of bedsores and broken skin:

• Lasting discoloration of the skin on a pressure area; people with lighter skin tones tend to get red patches and people with darker skin tones may get purple or blue patches
• Swollen or puffy skin
• Pain or itchiness
• The affected area feels harder or softer than the surrounding skin
• Cracked, blistered or scaly skin
• Broken skin, cuts or grazes
• The affected area may feel warmer or cooler than the surrounding skin
• Presence of wounds or ulcers - these can occur quickly

Pay special attention to these symptoms when bedsores get worse:

• Skin loss or breakdown around the wound
• Blackened skin
• Foul or a strong sweet odor from the affected area
• Presence of pus in the wound (a thick yellowish or greenish fluid)
• Fever (temperature over 38℃/100.4℉)
• Limited joint and muscle movement or new joint pain
• Difficulty breathing
• Low blood pressure
• Rapid heart rate and breathing
• Confusion and dizziness
• Severe pain and fatigue

Do not hesitate to reach out to a medical professional if you are at all concerned. Any significant change in a wound, associated symptoms, or the sudden onset of new symptoms, should be evaluated as soon as possible by a healthcare professional.