DOES that new pair of shoes make you look good but feel uncomfortable? Are you in pain every time you try to walk in them? If you see a bubble-like swelling on your feet in such a case, filled with clear fluid, then it could be a blister.
Known causes
A blister may form when the skin has been damaged by friction or rubbing, heat, cold or chemical exposure. Fluid collects between the the upper layer of the skin and the layers below.
This fluid cushions the tissue underneath, protecting it from further damage and allowing it to heal.
A friction blister can be caused by raking leaves. This kind of blister is most common after wearing a new pair of shoes.
Sometimes, the skin will blister when it comes into contact with a cosmetic, detergent, solvent or other chemical. Blisters can also develop as a result of an allergic reaction to a bite or sting.
There are also a number of medical conditions that cause blisters like chickenpox, herpes and impetigo.
Prevention
Friction blisters, can be prevented by wearing comfortable, well-fitting shoes and clean socks. Blisters are more likely to develop on skin that is moist. To avoid friction blisters on the hands, gloves should be worn when using tools.
Sunscreen and sun protection should also be used during the hottest part of the day to avoid blisters from sunburn.
If possible, apply talcum powder or petroleum jelly on blister-prone areas in order to reduce friction.
Identify it
Blisters usually manifest as a swelling on the skin’s surface that contains fluid. Some blisters may be painless, while some may be sensitive to pressure and cause discomfort. Blisters may form singly or in clusters. Infected blisters contain yellow or green pus.
Treatment
First and foremost, the irritation causing the blister must be stopped.
Then, most blisters heal naturally and do not require medical attention. As new skin grows beneath the blister, the fluid contained within it will slowly be reabsorbed by the body and the skin on top will dry and peel off.
A dressing may be placed over the blister to protect it, and some sort of emollient may be used to keep the skin soft as it heals.
The unbroken skin over a blister provides a natural barrier to infection.
Ideally, blisters should be allowed to break on their own.
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