Blisters

A blister is a small pocket of fluid that forms in the upper layers of the skin. It usually develops due to friction, heat, chemical exposure, or certain medical conditions.

• Friction: Commonly from shoes or tools rubbing against the skin.
• Burns: Including sunburns, scalds, or contact burns - Spenco 2nd Skin Moist Burn Pads
• Cold injuries: Such as frostbite.
• Allergic reactions or irritants
• Infections: Herpes simplex, chickenpox, impetigo, athlete’s foot.
• Autoimmune conditions: Bullous pemphigoid, pemphigus vulgaris.
• Systemic diseases: Diabetes, vascular insufficiency.

• Feet and toes: Often from ill-fitting footwear.
• Hands and fingers: Due to manual labor or sports.
• Other body areas: Associated with burns, dermatitis, or infections.

• Localized swelling filled with clear fluid (serum).
• Redness, tenderness, or burning sensation.
• Infected blisters may show pus, warmth, and surrounding redness.

• The blister roof protects from infection.

• Leave intact and protect with a clean bandage.

• May be drained using sterile technique:
  
  • Clean with antiseptic.
  • Use a sterile needle to puncture the edge.
  • Leave the overlying skin intact.
  • Apply antibiotic ointment and a dressing.

• Require medical evaluation.
• May need oral or topical antibiotics.

• Wear properly fitting shoes.
• Use moisture-wicking socks.  - Wrightsock Double Layer Socks,  Balega, Thorlo, Injinji 
• Apply moleskin (Military Grade, ultrathin 16ft roll - cut to size) , (Precut  Moleskin Shapes 10 sheets) or waterproof hydrocolloid blister pads to high-friction areas.
• KT Tape Blister Prevention Tape
• Keep feet dry and well-ventilated.
• Break in new shoes gradually.

• Signs of infection: redness, pus, increasing pain.
• Blisters from burns, frostbite, or medical conditions.
• Frequent or unexplained blistering.