From the Guidelines
To treat pressure ulcers forming from glasses pressing against the bridge of the nose, first relieve the pressure by adjusting or temporarily discontinuing glasses wear when possible. Clean the affected area gently with mild soap and water, then pat dry. Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly or zinc oxide ointment to create a protective barrier. For more advanced ulcers, consider hydrocolloid dressings cut to fit the small area, as hydrocolloid or foam dressings are recommended by the American College of Physicians to reduce wound size in patients with pressure ulcers 1, 2, 3. Padding can be added to the glasses where they contact the nose, using adhesive moleskin, silicone nose pads, or eyeglass cushions. Consider consulting an optician for glasses adjustment or exploring alternative eyewear options like contact lenses if appropriate. These interventions work by removing the source of pressure, protecting damaged tissue, and creating conditions for healing. Monitor the area daily for signs of infection such as increased redness, warmth, swelling, or drainage, which would require medical attention. Most minor pressure ulcers should improve within 1-2 weeks with proper care and pressure relief. It's also important to note that while protein or amino acid supplementation may be beneficial in reducing wound size, as recommended by the ACP 2, 4, 5, the primary focus should be on relieving pressure and protecting the wound. Regular monitoring and adjustments to the treatment plan as necessary will help ensure the best possible outcome for the patient.
From the Research
Treatment of Pressure Ulcers
To treat pressure ulcers forming from glasses pressing against each side of the bridge of the nose, consider the following:
- Relieve pressure on the affected area by adjusting or removing the glasses
- Keep the wound clean and dry to promote healing
- Apply a dressing to protect the wound and promote a moist environment
Dressing Options
Some dressing options for pressure ulcers include:
- Hydrocellular dressings, which have been shown to be effective in healing category II pressure ulcers 6
- Hydrocolloid dressings, which have been compared to other dressings in various studies 7, 8, 9
- Other dressings, such as gauze or foam dressings, may also be considered
Considerations
When treating pressure ulcers, consider the following:
- The stage and severity of the ulcer
- The patient's overall health and medical history
- The potential for adverse events or complications, such as infection or further tissue damage 7, 10
- The need for regular monitoring and follow-up to promote healing and prevent further complications
Specific Studies
Some studies have compared the effectiveness of different dressings for pressure ulcers, including:
- A study comparing hydrocellular and hydrocolloid dressings for category II pressure ulcers 6
- A review of the use of antiseptics and antibiotics in the treatment of pressure ulcers 7
- A systematic review of the use of hydrocolloids in the treatment of pressure ulcers 8
- A study on the effectiveness of hydrocolloid dressings for treating pressure ulcers in adult patients 9