What are the risk factors for developing bed sores?

Certain individuals are more likely to develop bed sores than others.  The following are risk factors that should be flagged by medical facilities to determine who may be at a heightened risk for developing bed sores:

  • Being bedridden or in a wheelchair
  • Fragile skin
  • Having a chronic condition, such as diabetes or vascular disease, that prevents areas of the body from receiving proper blood flow
  • Inability to move certain parts of your body without assistance, such as after spinal or brain injury or if you have a neuromuscular disease (like multiple sclerosis)
  • Malnourishment / dehydration
  • Bladder or bowel incontinence
  • Mental disability from conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease
  • Older age

Bed Sore
Resource Center

Information and medical contact resources for bed sore education and treatment.

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