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.