Your body is expert when it comes to applying defensive mechanisms and healing itself. Unfortunately, some of the processes it uses can lead to new issues. A prime example of this is the formation of blisters. Your body may create the extra cushioning for protection, but these fluid-filled sacs can cause pain and even risk of infection.

Understanding Blisters on Feet

The condition is quite common, so you are likely familiar with these fluid-filled bumps that develop on your skin. You have various epidermal layers, and in situations where the top one separates from the rest, the space between becomes filled with fluid. This provides a natural cushioning, while at the same time allowing the layers underneath to strengthen and heal.

There are various reasons a blister may form:

• Perhaps the most common of all the causes, friction causes the top layer of skin to separate from the rest.
• Ranging from cases of sunburn to direct exposure to flame, excessive heat forces your body to respond.
• Just as extreme heat can cause blistering, so too can excessively cold temperatures.
• Medical conditions or infections. Chickenpox, shingles, impetigo, and cold sores are examples of infectious illnesses that can lead to blistering. Other medical conditions include skin allergies and autoimmune disorders.
• This might be uncomfortable to think about, but mites burrowing into your skin (scabies), spider bites, and even bedbugs can all cause a blister.

Blister Complications for Diabetic Individuals

For many healthy individuals, blisters may be nothing more than an inconvenience. Those who live with diabetes need to view this common condition in a different light, though. If you have the disease, you should be aware that if the bubble on your skin bursts, it creates an avenue for microorganisms to enter your body and create a potentially dangerous infection. Avoid the risk of a serious medical issue by performing a daily foot inspection and then call A Step Up Podiatry, LLC if you happen to find one. Our skilled foot doctor will take care of it for you in a safe environment using sterilized tools.

Do not attempt to drain a blister on your own when you have diabetes. It is simply too risky, and you could unnecessarily put yourself in harm’s way. Instead, take measures to avoid any pressure on the area to keep it from bursting, and cover it with an adhesive bandage until you are able to come in for your appointment.

Treating a Burst Blister

If you do not have diabetes or another autoimmune disorder, your best course of action is simply to protect a blister and let nature take its course. In time, your body will reabsorb the fluid and the outside skin will ultimately dry up and fall off. Of course, it is possible that the bubble will burst before that happens.

Treating a blister that has popped is a matter of preventing infection. Begin by carefully washing the area with warm water and mild soap. Take care to keep the flap of skin intact, unless it is torn, dirty, or has pus underneath. Gently smooth the flap down over the tender skin.

Apply antibiotic ointment to the affected area and then cover with a clean bandage. Should itching or a rash develop, you are likely having a reaction to the ointment and need to stop using it. Be sure to properly maintain the bandage by replacing it daily, or whenever it becomes wet or dirty. At night, remove it so the area can dry.

Blister Prevention

The odds of having to care for a blister are greatly diminished when you use the prevention measures listed below:

• Wear shoes that fit properly and are not too tight.
• If you have known allergies, avoid contact with allergens.
• Avoid spending excessive time in the sun without proper sunscreen.
• Take steps to protect your skin in the wintertime.

Manalapan’s First Choice for Effective Foot Care

For additional information or professional treatment for difficult blisters, contact A Step Up Podiatry, LLC. The staff at our Manalapan, NJ office is ready to help you, so call (732) 446-7136 or take advantage of our online form and request your appointment today.