(HealthDay News) -- A pressure sore is an area of the body that breaks down because something keeps rubbing or pressing against the skin.
A pressure sore can develop if you use a wheelchair or stay in bed for long periods, have a disease that affects blood flow, have fragile skin or are malnourished.
The U.S. Library of Medicine suggests how to care for a pressure sore:
- Relieve pressure on the area by using a pillow, foam cushion, booties or a mattress pad.
- In a wheelchair, change your position every 15 minutes, and in a bed, you should move about every 2 hours.
- Care for the sore as directed by your health care provider.
- Avoid additional pressure on the sore.
- Call your doctor if you have an open sore or develop a blister.
