Bed Sores Bed sores refer to ulcers of the skin that are formed during prolonged bed rest, which causes sustained pressure over bony areas of the body, such as the buttocks, hips, sacrum, and shoulder blades. Symptoms Bed sore symptoms include areas of redness, deep ulceration, and pain in the affected areas. Causes Bed sores primarily affect patients who are physically restricted and bedridden, such as the disabled and people in a coma. Elderly patients are also prone to bed sores. Patients need to be moved frequently, and also require fresh air and light bed clothes. Daily baths with gentle soaps containing vitamin E, aloe vera and sufficient natural light can be helpful in preventing bed sores. Should bed sores occur, they should usually start to heal within a week, but may take up to six weeks, depending on their severity. Treatment |