1. Change Positions
Changing the position of your body every now and then will reduce the stress and pressure on the skin that can irritate existing sores. It also reduces the risk of developing new sores.
- If you have enough upper body strength, you can reposition yourself every few hours using a device like a trapeze bar.
- If you are in a wheelchair, try to shift your weight every 30 minutes.
- Caretakers should use bed linens to help lift and reposition you to reduce the risk of friction and shearing. This should be done every 2 to 3 hours.
2. Saline Water
To help bed sores heal faster, clean the sores with saline water. Bed sores that are not cleaned properly are more prone to infection and inflammation. Saline water will reduce excess fluid and also get rid of loose dead skin.
- Mix 2 teaspoons of salt in a cup of water.
- Boil it, then allow it to cool.
- Use this solution to clean the affected body area.
- Allow the area to dry thoroughly, then cover it with a bandage.
- Repeat a couple of times a day.