An Overview of Pressure Wound Treatment in Lubbock, TX

Pressure Wound Treatment in Lubbock, TX

A Pressure wound also known as bedsores are injury to the skin and underlying tissue resulting from prolonged and unrelieved pressure on the skin.

Pressure wounds often occur on the skin covering bony parts of the body, such as the heels, ankles, elbows, hips, buttocks, and tailbone. It can also occur in the head’s spine, shoulder blades, shoulders, and back.

People with pressure wounds will mostly have medical conditions that limit their ability to move or change positions when lying down or sitting, such as people with mobility problems, stroke, or coma. Pressure wounds can develop over days or weeks.

Causes of Pressure Wounds

A pressure wound is caused by pressure against the skin on a bony part of the body that limits blood flow to the skin.

The contributing factors for pressure wounds are:

Pressure

When constant pressure is exerted on any part of the body, blood flow to tissues in the affected part is limited. Blood flow throughout the body delivers oxygen and other nutrients to tissues in every part of the body. When blood flow is limited to a particular part of the body, the affected part loses oxygen and nutrients, thereby causing damage to nearby skin and tissues. The affected skin and tissues may eventually die if blood flow is not restored.

Friction

This occurs when the skin continuously rubs against clothing or bedding for an extended period. It can make the skin fragile and more vulnerable to injury.

Risk Factors of Pressure Wounds

Certain factors increase the risk of developing pressure wounds.

1. Immobility

You risk developing these wounds if you have difficulty moving and cannot change position while lying down or seated. People with health essentials that limit their mobility, such as stroke, spinal cord injury, and coma, are more prone to wounds

2. Incontinence

The skin becomes more vulnerable when exposed to urine and stool for an extended period.

3. Lack of sensory perception

Loss of sensation and inability to feel pain can increase the risk of pressure soreness. People with spinal cord injuries, neurological disorders, and other conditions that lead to a loss of sensation are more prone to these wounds. This is because they may not feel pain or discomfort and may be unaware of the development of a wound.

4. Poor nutrition and dehydration

A lack of essential nutrients and fluids in the body can result in various health and skin concerns, which can increase the risk of wounds.

5. Medical conditions affecting blood flow

Certain medical conditions such as diabetes and vascular disease can affect blood flow to the skin and tissue, thereby increasing the risk of pressure wounds.

Symptoms of Pressure Wounds

Symptoms of Pressure Wound

Signs and symptoms of pressure wound include:

• Unusual changes in the color of the skin
• Changes in skin texture
• Swelling
• Tender skin
• Itchy skin
• Pus-like draining
• Cooler or warmer skin feeling to the touch

Stages of Pressure Wounds

Pressure wounds develop over four stages.

Stage 1

The skin around the affected area feels unusually warm to the touch. The color of the skin may change & become reddish. The skin may be itchy.

Stage 2

Development of a blister and an open wound. The color of the skin around the wound changes.

Stage 3

Development of a crater-like appearance due to tissue damage below the affected skin.

Stage 4

Severe damage to the skin and tissue. Infection may occur. The muscles, bones, and tendons may be visible, resulting in a lack of blood and tissue damage.

Treatment of Pressure Wounds in Lubbock, TX

If a pressure wound is not treated, it can lead to potentially life-threatening complications.

The first action for wound care treatment is to relieve the pressure from the affected area. This involves changing the position of the body. Cushions and paddings may be applied to the affected area to relieve stress and to ensure that the body is well-positioned.

1. Cleaning the wound

If the affected skin isn’t broken, the skin will be cleaned with a gentle cleanser and pat dry. The open wound will be cleaned with water or salt water if the skin is opened.

2. Dressing the wound

A bandage will be used to dress the wound. The dressing of wound prevents it from getting infected. It also helps to keep the wound moist and aids in the healing of the wound.

3. Use topical creams

Antibacterial topical creams may be applied to the wound to help combat infection. Barrier creams may be used to protect damaged or vulnerable skin.

4. Antibiotics and pain medications

Oral or intravenous antibiotics may be prescribed to treat skin, bone, or blood infections. Pain medications such as ibuprofen and naproxen sodium may be prescribed to help relieve pain.

5. Surgical interventions

Surgical interventions might include removing dead tissue and closing the wound. A skin graft may be needed if the wound is deep and extensive.

6. Eat healthy diets

Eating healthy diets that contain essential nutrients such as proteins, vitamins and minerals can help boost healing and improve overall health.

Other interventions

Vacuum-assisted wound closure, electrical stimulation, or hyperbaric oxygen therapy may be required in severe cases whereby the wound needs assistance to heal.

Prevention of Pressure Wound

The Pressure wound can be prevented through specific measures. These include:

• Change positions frequently when lying down or sitting.
• Sleep in a well-positioned and cushioned bed
• Inspect your skin every day for abnormalities
• Keep your skin clean and dry
• Maintain healthy nutrition
• Avoid smoking
• Engage in exercises to encourage circulation
• Manage underlying medical condition

Southwest Wound Care: Best Clinic for the Treatment of Pressure Wounds in Lubbock, TX

Southwest Wound Care is the right place if you’re looking for the best clinic to get treatment for pressure wounds in Lubbock, TX.

At Southwest Wound Care, we treat pressure wounds using the newest and most innovative techniques. We are the best treatment provider for various types of wounds, including pressure wounds, in Lubbock, TX. We provide professional care and services and take every required step to treat your wound correctly.

Book an appointment or contact us today to learn more about pressure wounds.