Thursday, February 24, 2011

Practical Tips to Avoid Blisters

Blister is a vesicle filled with fluid. It is small, as tiny as the top of the pin or can be 5 to 10 mm wide.  Blisters break easily and discharge their fluid into the skin.



Causes blisters:
·         Chicken Pox
·         Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)
·         Contact Dermatitis (poison ivy)
·         Herpes Simplex
·         Allergic reaction to drugs
·         Blistering skin diseases like porphyria 
·         Impetigo
·         Shingles (Herpes zoster)
·         Friction and Burns
Generally, a medical practitioner should examine the patient to verify what causes the skin rashes. There are over-the-counter drugs that can be use for some conditions including contact dermatitis and cold sores. But always call a doctor if you have any unexplained blister on your skin.
Photo Courtesy of Novakreo


Practical Tips:
·         Keep your skin intact. Broken skin will provide entrance to bacteria and increases the risk of infection.
·         Do not scratch it.
·         Cover blisters to avoid exposure. Use adhesive bandage for small blister and for large blister, use a porous, plastic-coated gauze pad that absorbs moisture and permits the wound to breathe.
·         To avoid a blister, use gloves, socks, a bandage or alike protective covering over the area being rubbed.
·         Use additional moleskin inside your shoe where it may rub such as the heel.
·         For Diabetic patient or someone with poor condition, consult your doctor first before considering any self-care measures.

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