What are Blisters?

• Small pockets of fluid that form on the skin
• Usually result from friction, burns, or skin conditions
• Can be clear, filled with blood, or pus
• Act as a protective layer to help skin heal
• May be painful or itchy depending on the cause

Types of Blisters

Friction blisters

• Caused by repeated rubbing or pressure
• Common on feet or hands

Blood blisters

• Form when blood vessels under the skin are damaged
• Usually from pinching or forceful impact

Heat blisters

• Caused by burns, including sunburn or scalds
• Often filled with clear fluid

Cold blisters

• Result from frostbite or exposure to freezing temperatures

Blisters from skin conditions

• Seen in eczema, dermatitis, or autoimmune disorders
• May be part of a chronic condition

What causes Blisters?

• Friction from tight shoes or tools
• Burns from heat, sun, or chemicals
• Allergic reactions
• Infections like chickenpox or herpes
• Autoimmune diseases such as pemphigus
• Insect bites or stings
• Medical conditions like diabetes or dermatitis

What are the symptoms of Blisters?

• Raised, fluid-filled bump on the skin
• Pain, especially when pressure is applied
• Redness and inflammation around the blister
• Itching or irritation
• Pus or bleeding if infected

How are Blisters diagnosed?

• Physical examination by a healthcare provider
• Review of medical history and recent activities
• Skin swab if infection is suspected
• Blood tests for underlying conditions
• Biopsy in rare or chronic cases

How are Blisters treated?

At-home care

• Keep the blister clean and dry
• Do not pop unless necessary to relieve pain
• Cover with a sterile bandage
• Use antibiotic ointment if it breaks open

Medical treatment

• Drain large or painful blisters with sterile technique
• Prescription creams for infected or persistent blisters
• Oral medications for underlying skin diseases
• Special care for diabetic patients or severe burns

What are the complications of Blisters?

• Infection if the skin breaks open
• Scarring
• Pain or discomfort while walking or using hands
• Secondary skin conditions
• Delayed healing in people with chronic illnesses

How can Blisters be prevented?

• Wear well-fitting shoes with socks
• Use gloves for repetitive hand tasks
• Apply blister pads or protective bandages
• Keep skin moisturized and protected from the sun
• Avoid known irritants or allergens
• Stay hydrated and treat skin conditions early

When to see a doctor?

• Blisters that are very painful or keep coming back
• Signs of infection such as pus, redness, or fever
• Blisters in unusual areas like inside the mouth or eyes
• Large blisters caused by burns or injuries
• If you have diabetes and notice foot blisters
• Persistent or unexplained skin blisters