Dr Nabila Benahmed: The first thing to do is to see a doctor so they can make an accurate diagnosis and decide on the appropriate treatment and/or care. To take care of your wound, it is also essential to have a healthy lifestyle, to stop smoking and drinking alcohol, to avoid sitting for long periods and to get regular exercise (even if it is only walking), to eat healthily and to drink plenty of water.
Dr Nabila Benahmed: In this case, compression bandages should be worn permanently as they contribute to venous return. If they slide/fall off, ask your nurse to reapply them. To care for your ulcer, you should not take hot baths, showers are preferable.
Dr Nabila Benahmed: Your family can remind you to change position regularly to relieve the pressure, around every two to three hours. However, be careful to avoid friction when changing positionas this will help to protect your skin, which has become thinner and therefore more fragile.
DrNabila Benahmed: Maintaining good blood sugar balance is one of the key conditions for effective healing. In the event of a diabetic foot ulcer, use a pressure relieving shoe as early as possible and until the ulcer is fully healed, to avoid putting weight on the foot. You can also see a chiropodist to look after your feet.
Dr Nabila Benahmed: Impermeable adhesive dressings are available, which are water resistant and protect the wound. I recommend washing before the nurse arrives to change your dressing.
Dr Nabila Benahmed: If the ulcer changes over time, if it becomes red or painful, you should call the doctor or your nurse immediatel
What is a pressure ulcer? A pressure ulcer is a chronic wound which appears when sitting or lying for a prolonged period which creates pressure in the weight-bearing areas. This pressure compresses the tissue between two hard surfaces prevents the blood from flowing normally leading to reduced oxygen supply, which causes damage to the tissue and where …