(HealthDay News) -- Bedsores, or pressure ulcers, are areas of skin that become broken down, usually when a person is sitting or lying down in a position too long, such as in a hospital bed or wheelchair. The constant pressure against the skin causes a decreased blood supply and the skin, in turn, dies.

According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, the most common areas bedsores may occur are the elbows, hips, back and ankles. Persons who are bedridden, have fragile skin, or have a chronic disease are most at risk.

Once a bedsore is recognized, steps must be taken immediately to relieve the pressure to that area, perhaps by using pillows. Treatment of the sore depends on its stage, but caretakers should focus on improving nutrition and underlying problems that may affect the healing process. It may also help to powder sheets to reduce friction when lying in bed. Lastly, caretakers should keep the area clean and free of dead tissue. The sore should also be covered with gauze.