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Bed Sores Treatment

Is there any specific diet for treating bed sores? Please specify food and measures for bed sore treatment
(March 16, 2009)

Bed sores or pressure sores are ulcers or wounds that are seen in places, which are under long duration of pressure. The pressure is attributed to the sitting on a wheel chair, lying on the bed for long durations and so on. It is especially common in individuals, who are invalid or those who are bedridden. Use of heavy bed covers result in bed sores on the toes. Continence, shearing forces, unrelieved pressure, medication, temperature, humidity and friction are other contributing factors for pressure sores.

Bed sores are commonly seen in areas such as heels, back, ankles, tail bone area, elbows and hips.


Bed sores are also referred to as Decubitus ulcers. Certain sores are deep enough to reach the muscle. Treatment of the bed sores, at the earliest helps to a great extent, as it results in infection, due to skin breakage. Broken skin is more difficult to treat. Certain other risk factors for bed sores are obesity, underweight, under nourishment, atherosclerosis and diabetes mellitus. Warning signs of sores involve, pain, inflammation and redness of the affected area. Bed sores form ulcers, skin abrasions and blisters, in course of time.

An alkali rich diet with adequate fruits and veggies prove beneficial for an individual with bed sores. Meat and whole grains contribute to acidity, whereas green vegetables and fruits provide alkalinity to the system. Maintenance of a healthy pH in the body is achieved by certain acidic foods. These in turn, results in leaching of minerals. Fiber is vital for this diet. Dietary fiber aids in the elimination of toxins and cleansing of the colon. The toxin removal takes place through the skin, in case of fiber inadequacy. This in turn affects skin recovery. Flaxseeds are useful, as they bind the water and helps in easy elimination of stools. Adequate water intake helps in the maintenance of bladder function.

Treatment of bed sores involves the change in position, use of special mattresses and a healthy diet. Medicated gauze helps in preventing further infection of the sore. Medication, such as pain relievers and antibiotics are useful. Dead tissue can be removed by surgical procedures. Keep the wound clean with the use of mild wet cotton and antibiotic ointments. Use of soft padding in wheel chairs proves effective in reduction of pressure. Use clean and dry linens. Avoid polyester clothes and bed spreads. Good dietary regimen, which is balanced, is important. Keep the skin dry. Prevention of bed sores is possible by changing the position of individuals on prolonged bed rest. Air filled mattresses are helpful to decrease the pressure on the areas that are vulnerable and sensitive.

Submitted by E L on March 16, 2009 at 12:04

 

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