Pressure skin, also known as a pressure injury, pressure ulcer, pressure sore, or bedsore, is a breakdown of skin integrity caused by prolonged pressure on a specific area of the body. This typically occurs when a bony prominence, such as a hip, heel, or elbow, is subjected to constant pressure against an external surface, restricting blood flow to the underlying tissues. The lack of blood flow leads to tissue damage and the eventual development of a sore.
Understanding Pressure Injuries
- Cause: Persistent pressure on the skin reduces blood supply to the affected area, resulting in tissue damage. Friction and shear forces can exacerbate the problem.
- Risk Factors: Individuals with limited mobility, older adults, those with certain medical conditions (e.g., diabetes, spinal cord injuries), and people with poor nutrition are at higher risk.
- Stages: Pressure injuries are often categorized into stages based on the severity of the damage, ranging from non-blanchable erythema (redness that doesn't fade when pressed) to deep tissue damage involving muscle and bone. (Information from Mayo Clinic, NHS inform, Mount Sinai, Cleveland Clinic, NHS, Cedars-Sinai, Better Health Channel, MSKTC, Johns Hopkins Medicine, and UpToDate)
- Symptoms: Initial symptoms can include redness, pain, or changes in skin temperature or texture. Advanced stages involve open wounds, deep tissue damage, and potential infection. (Information from Mayo Clinic, NHS inform, Mount Sinai, Cleveland Clinic, NHS, Cedars-Sinai, Better Health Channel, MSKTC, Johns Hopkins Medicine)
- Treatment: Treatment depends on the stage of the injury and may involve wound care, pressure relief, medication, and in severe cases, surgery. (Information from Mayo Clinic, Mount Sinai, Cleveland Clinic, NHS, Cedars-Sinai)
Examples of Pressure Injury Locations
Pressure injuries commonly form over bony prominences such as:
- Heels
- Hips
- Elbows
- Shoulders
- Tailbone (sacrum)
- Ankles
- Back of the head
Understanding the causes, risk factors, and stages of pressure injuries is vital for prevention and effective treatment. Regular skin checks, pressure relief techniques, and proper positioning are crucial for minimizing the risk of developing pressure skin.
