Prolonged pressure or pressure in combination with shearing force in one place compresses blood vessels in the skin and the tissue underneath. This can cause sensitive red spots, blisters and wounds. We also call these bedsores decubitus. This is damage to the skin, the tissue under the skin or to both the skin and the tissue underneath.

Pressure ulcers usually develop in places where the body rests, such as the tailbone, sit bones and heels. But bedsores can also develop on the elbows, shoulders, hips or the back of the head.
In certain cases you are more likely to develop pressure ulcers. For example if you:

• you are unable to change your position or change your position very little because you are bedridden or spend a lot of time in a wheelchair,
• not eating or drinking enough,
• suffers from sensory disorders,
• has blood flow disorders,
• has moist skin due to urinary incontinence.

Change your lying or sitting position regularly with or without assistance.

Pressure ulcers and nutrition
It is important to eat and drink enough. You need at least 1.5 liters of fluid per day. Ask your doctor or other healthcare provider for advice if you have difficulty eating and drinking. 

In that case, your doctor or dietitian can recommend a diet for medical use. Nutricia has special drinking and tube feeding that can be recommended.