Treating Blisters

What Are Blisters?

• A blister is a tiny pouch of liquid that collects in the top layers of the skin.
• It generally forms when damage is sustained to the outer layer of the skin.
• Fluid accumulates underneath the damaged skin, suppressing the tissue underneath.
• This shields the tissue from additional harm and allows it to heal.
• Almost all blisters are occupied with a fluid known as serum, which is the part of the blood that stays after clotting agents and red blood cells and have been removed.
• Blisters are occasionally filled with blood or excretion if they become swollen or infected.
• Blisters can grow on any part of the body but usually occur on the feet and hands.

What Are The Causes Of Blisters?

Blisters can be caused by:

• Rubbing of the skin;
• Touching certain chemicals, such as cleansing agents;
• Heat – for instance, from sunburn or a burn; and
• Medical illnesses, such as chickenpox.

When To Phone Your Doctor

Most blisters heal by themselves within 7 days and don’t need medical assistance.

See your doctor if you notice blisters that:

• Have become infected.
• Extremely sore.
• Keep recurring.

How To Prevent Blisters

There are various methods you can do to stop getting blisters as a result of rubbing, chemicals or sunburn. For instance, you can:

• Wear comfy shoes that fit you well.
• When dealing with detergents or chemicals, wear gloves.
• Always use sunscreen.
• Never burst or press your blisters.

• Even though it may be tempting, try not to rupture your blister because it could result in an infection or prolong the time it takes to heal.
• If you have blisters that are either big or painful, your doctor might decide to lance the blister under hygienic conditions.
• If your blister does happen to burst, don’t pick off any dead skin covering the blister.
• Let the fluid within the blister drain and conceal the affected region with a dry, hygienic bandage to guard it from infection until it is fully healed.

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