Blisters

Overview of Blisters

Blisters or vesicles are formed by the damage to the upper skin layer and are often filled with fluid, blood or pus. Most of these blisters are harmless and barely require treatment.

Signs and Symptoms of Blisters

Blister, also known as vesicle, is formed by the accumulation of fluid between the upper skin layer. Blisters come as a common symptom of many diseases. Formation of blisters occur in the epidermal layer of skin to prevent damage to the deeper layers of skin.
Not all blisters are the same and can be filled with blood, pus, plasma or serum depending upon the location and cause of blister formation. Blister formation can be a result of medical conditions, burns, friction, frost bite etc. It is better to leave blisters untouched to prevent the spread of blister material and limit the damage to deeper skin layers.

Types of Blisters

Causes of Blisters

Blisters can be of different types depending upon the cause and condition. Three common types of blisters include:

Friction Blisters: This type of blisters are formed by the friction and are mostly found on your feet. Common cause of friction blisters is pressure application on skin.
Blood Blisters: These blisters are similar to friction blisters but contain blood in it. These blisters are also caused by pressure or friction but filled with blood because the vessel is damaged under the skin.
Heat Blisters: This type of blisters are formed by the burn or heat damage and are meant to protect the skin underneath.

Happniness

Risk Factors of Blisters

Some of the common causes of blisters include:

  • Friction
  • Burn/ heat damage
  • Infection
  • Skin irritation due to chemical damage
  • Medical conditions

Happniness

Prevention

Some of the common risk factors for blisters include:

  • Poorly fitted shoes
  • Activities that add pressure
  • Frostbite
Happniness

Diagnosis

Some of the tips that can help to prevent the formation of blisters include:

  • Choose right shoes that fits you well
  • Don’t cover wet or moist feet
  • Choose socks according to activity
  • Make sure to lubricate your feet
  • Don’t leave blister susceptible areas open
  • Be careful while doing sports

Treatment of Blisters | When to Consult a Doctor

Visual examination of a blister can help your physician diagnose it. However, if your healthcare provider suspects a skin infection, further analysis of blister content using microscopy, culture or blister biopsy.