Stages of Bedsores

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Bedsores, also known as pressure ulcers, are common injuries for those who are immobile and bedridden or confined to a wheelchair. These sores develop when there is pressure on an area of the skin for an extended period of time. Although the name might sound somewhat benign, bedsores can actually be quite serious and painful. Recovery time is often much longer than one might imagine. Bedsores can lead to a number of other medical complications, including critical infections in the bones or soft tissue. As a result, anyone who has developed bedsores should speak to a New York bedsore lawyer as soon as possible.

Although bedsores should be treated by a medical professional, many people are able to self-diagnose their appearance. To reduce the risk of serious injury and long term health effects, it is important to be able to recognize bedsores in the early stages. There are four stages of bedsores. Identifying and treating bedsores as soon as possible improves the chance of recovery.

Stage 1

With the first stage of bedsores, the first layer of skin is affected. This is the first sign that there is a problem that might evolve into a serious medical issue if not treated. In this first stage, it is common for the area to feel painful or itchy. Your skin might also look red in the irritated area. It can take several weeks to heal from a stage one pressure ulcer.

Stage 2

In the second stage, the sore extends deeper into the skin, beyond the first layer. It is common to see an open wound in this stage, and the area around the pressure ulcer can become much more painful. This is when bedsore becomes vulnerable to infection.

Stage 3

Stage three occurs when the sore has gone beyond the first and second layers of the skin and into the fat tissue. You might notice that the wound shows signs of a serious infection. At this stage, the pressure ulcer typically takes between one and four months to heal.

Stage 4

Stage 4 is the most severe stage of bedsores and might affect your muscles, ligaments, and other soft tissue. There are a number of complications with stage four bedsores, the most common being a critical infection and dead tissue around the source of the wound. Stage four bedsores often require surgery to repair and can take four months to several years to heal completely.

Some people never fully recover from bedsores, especially those who are limited to a wheelchair or bed and unable to relieve that pressure from the impacted area. For this reason, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as you think you’re developing a pressure ulcer.

Call Us Today to Schedule a Free Consultation with a Bedsore Lawyer in New York

The existence of bedsores is a serious issue in itself and might signify that you or the injured person is a victim of nursing home neglect. If you believe this to be the case, it is essential to understand your legal rights. The New York City bedsores lawyers at Sinel & Olesen, PLLC, are dedicated to fighting for the rights of victims of nursing home or medical malpractice. Call us today at (844) 512-4098 to schedule a free initial consultation or contact us online.