Home Remedies for Bed Sores

Bedsores also known as Pressure ulcers, are areas of damaged skin caused by staying in one position for too long. Bedsores most often develop on skin that covers bony areas of the body, such as the heels, ankles, hips and tailbone. You are at risk if you are bedridden, use a wheelchair, or are unable to change your position. Pressure sores can cause serious infections, some of which are life-threatening. They can be a problem for people in nursing homes.

Bedsores are treatable, but, if treatment comes too late, they can lead to fatal complications.

Symptoms of Bed Sores:

Each stage of a decubitus ulcer has different symptoms. Depending on the stage, you may have any of the following:

•   Skin discoloration
•   Pain in the affected area
•   Infection
•   Open skin
•   Skin that doesn’t lighten to the touch
•   Skin that’s softer or firmer than the surrounding skin

Effective Home Remedies

Honey:

Honey has natural antiseptic properties and can also soothe the skin where there are mild bed sores. It can provide relief from pain, reduce itching and promote healing. Honey can also reduce the risk of infection.

1.   Prepare a thick mixture with equal amounts of honey and sugar. Apply this mixture to the affected body area and cover it with a clean bandage. Follow this treatment once daily.
2.   Spread honey over a large banana leaf. Lie down on this banana leaf for a few hours. Repeat daily.

Turmeric:

Turmeric accelerates the healing process of bed sores. It also has anti-inflammatory, antiseptic and antioxidant properties that help your body deal with the symptoms and fight infection.

1.   Clean the affected area with sterile water or a saline solution. Sprinkle enough turmeric powder to cover the wound. Cover the area with a clean bandage. Repeat 3 times daily for quick healing.
2.   You can also drink warm turmeric milk 2 times daily.

Aloe Vera:

Due to its healing and soothing properties, aloe vera Aloe vera can be used to control infection in bed sores and can also promote healing. Plus, it keeps the affected skin moisturized, which ensures quick recovery.

1.   Cut open an aloe vera leaf and extract the gel.
2.   Apply this gel on the affected area and rub gently for a few minutes.
3.   Allow it to dry on its own, then wipe it off with a clean damp cloth. Repeat 3 times a day.
4.   You can use aloe vera gel powder, cream or ointment to help promote healing.

Coconut Oil:

Being rich in medium-chain fatty acids, coconut oil can keep your skin healthy and protect it from damage caused by pressure sores. Plus, massaging it onto your body will improve blood circulation.

1.   Smear some warm coconut oil all over your legs, limbs and back.
2.   Gently massage until the oil penetrates deep into the skin.
3.   Apply 3 or 4 times daily to heal the sores and prevent new sores from appearing.

Useful Tips

•   Change positions often. Whether you are in a chair or in bed, always try to move around so you decrease the pressure on your skin.
•   If you are in a wheelchair, shift your weight to the other side every 15 minutes or if you can, try lifting yourself up in the chair on both arms.
•   A thin layer of corn starch on the sheets will help to reduce friction.
•   Get a chair cushion that fits your body's shape better. There are cushions that can reduce pressure on certain areas of the body. Sit on a foam or gel seat cushion that fits your wheelchair. Do NOT sit on donut-shaped cushions.