Pressure sores: causes, prevention and natural treatment

Pressure sores, or pressure ulcers, are lesions of the skin and underlying tissues caused by prolonged pressure. They mainly affect people confined to bed or with reduced mobility.

Who is most at risk?

The most vulnerable people are:

• Elderly bedridden patients
• People with diabetes
• Post-operative patients with limited mobility
• Those suffering from neurological diseases

How they form

Prolonged pressure reduces blood flow to the tissues. Without oxygen and nutrients, the skin begins to deteriorate rapidly. The most affected areas are the heels, sacrum, hips and elbows.

Prevention: the fundamental rules

• Change position every 2 hours
• Keep the skin clean and dry
• Use anti-decubitus mattresses
• Ensure proper nutrition and hydration
• Regularly check the areas at risk

Natural treatment

Medical devices based on natural active ingredients can significantly speed up the healing of pressure sores. Lipogels based on essential oils enriched with ozone form a protective film over the lesion, reduce the risk of bacterial infection and support tissue regeneration.

In diabetic patients it is particularly important to act quickly, since reduced blood circulation considerably slows down healing times.

When to consult a doctor

Pressure sores can worsen rapidly. It is advisable to contact a doctor at the first sign of a skin lesion, especially in the presence of infection or tissue necrosis.