According to the Wikipedia, about 29,000 deaths resulted globally because of pressure ulcers in 2013. Elderly persons and bedridden patients are more susceptible to bedsores, lead to intense pain and suffering. The most commonly affected areas include buttocks, shoulder blades, backs of arms and legs, lower back, and the area behind the knees.
Bedsores, also known as pressure sores or pressure ulcers, are usually caused by excessive pressure and friction on the skin. The prolonged immobility of a person may eventually lead to bedsores. Wearing soiled clothes or undergarments can also lead to pressure sores.
Strict hygiene measures along with certain home remedies can help prevent and heal pressure sores. Following is a list of eight natural home remedies for treating bedsores:
Change Positions
Changing positions every few hours can reduce pressure on the affected skin. It not only lessens the irritation and pain resulting from existing bedsores, but also reduces the risk of developing new ones. Try to change your position or shift your weight every 30 minutes if you are in a wheelchair. Bedridden people need to change their positions every two hours. Using air, gel, or water filled cushions can also help reduce pressure.
Clean with Saline Water
Saline water can prevent inflammation and infection. Cleaning the affected area with saline water is probably the best way to heal the bedsores quickly. Mix two tablespoons of salt in a cup of water and boil it. Allow the water to cool. Use the cooled solution to clean the affected region. Cover the cleaned area with a bandage after it has dried properly. You can repeat this procedure a couple of times a day to gain quick results.
Apply Talcum Powder
Moisture stimulates infection, thus increasing the chances of developing new bedsores. It is, therefore, important to keep the affected area moisture-free during the treatment. Applying talcum powder to the potential area of bedsores can also reduce the chances of spreading the infection.
First, wash the wound properly with a disinfectant such as saline water and dry it thoroughly. Apply talcum or baby powder to the dried area and cover it with a bandage. Repeat the procedure twice daily for quicker relief from pressure sores. If necessary, use a special moisture barrier to protect the area from bodily fluids.
Use Aloe Vera Gel To Clean the Wounds
Aloe vera can be used to treat a variety of skin conditions, including pressure ulcers. Aloe vera gel is renowned for its soothing and healing properties. It can significantly reduce the pain and itchiness caused by bedsores. You can either apply freshly extracted aloe vera gel directly to the affected area or use aloe vera cream or ointment. Allow the applied gel to dry and then clean it off with a damp cloth. Repeat this procedure 2-3 times a day for better results.
Turmeric Is the Best Natural Antibiotic
Turmeric has anti-inflammatory, antiseptic and antioxidant properties that can boost the healing process of pressure ulcers. You can clean the affected region with a disinfectant and dry it properly before applying turmeric powder. Make sure to cover it with a clean and dry bandage. Repeat this procedure at least three times a day for a quick recovery. Alternatively, you can also drink warm turmeric milk twice a day to boost the healing process.
Coconut Oil Massage Prevents Infection
Coconut oil is a rich source of medium chain fatty acids that can keep your skin healthy. It can also be used to treat bedsores. Massaging coconut oil onto your body can improve blood circulation, reducing the chances of developing new bedsores. It is, therefore, recommended to rub warm coconut oil over the entire body including the affected area. However, you should massage gently to avoid damaging the affected area.
Apply Comfrey Leaves and Slippery Elm Paste for Quick Healing
Slippery elm is a medicinal plant that has been used as an herbal remedy for hundreds of years, especially in North America. It has several medicinal properties. Comfrey leaves are high in vitamin C and calcium. They also have anti-inflammatory properties. People often use an equal amount of comfrey leaves and slippery elm to make a paste, which can be applied directly to the affected area. Cover it with a bandage and leave it overnight for visible results.
Well-Balanced Diet Is the Key to Healthy Skin
A healthy and well-balanced diet is the key to healthy skin. Your diet should be rich in Vitamins A, B, C, D and E. Zinc and iron are also required to maintain healthy skin. Try to avoid meat and meat products. Make sure to eat fiber-rich food.
Conclusion
Thousands of bedridden patients and senior citizens in the United States suffer from bedsores, especially those living in a nursing home. Bedsores can be extremely painful and may lead to serious skin infections. It is, therefore, necessary to treat pressure sores as soon as possible. Fortunately, there are many inexpensive natural home remedies that can effectively heal bedsores. Hopefully one of these eight home remedies will help you heal quickly. However, you should consult your doctor, if necessary.
Author Bio:
Jenniffer Pickard is a former academic of National University of Natural Medicine. She writes about various topics related to Natural medicine, health, fitness, herbal medicine, etc. Currently she’s writing for Bed Sore FAQ, she is passionate about her work and always has an eye on interesting researches about natural medicine.
8 Natural Home Remedies for Bedsores
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