Symptoms of severe pressure ulcers & when to seek medical care
Pressure ulcers are commonly found on patients that are restricted to bed rest or have an underlying comorbidity, such as a physical disability, that limits or completely prevents their mobility. Found on areas of the skin that are under constant pressure from wearing a cast, lying in bed, or sitting in a wheelchair for a long time, bedsores start as red, painful areas only affecting the top layer of the skin. As they advance, pressure ulcers can go deeper, affecting the fat tissue and even muscles and ligaments. Once the pressure ulcers have reached this stage, they require immediate medical attention.
If left untreated
If left untreated, deep pressure ulcers can require surgery. It’s also possible for a pressure ulcer to appear relatively surface-level, when in reality it’s much deeper—this is called a “Suspected Deep Tissue Injury” (SDTI). This is dangerous because the pressure ulcer may be causing tissue or ligament damage without your knowledge.
That’s why it’s so important to seek medical attention for your pressure ulcers before they reach this stage. If you’re experiencing pressure ulcers, don’t fret; DispatchHealth is here to help. Contact us today to request care from the comfort of your home.