The Signs & Symptoms of Blisters

If you work with your hands, are an athlete or wear shoes that are too small, you may be likely to suffer from blisters. Blisters develop when fluid accumulates between the outer and inner layers of the skin. They can occur anywhere on the body and are commonly found on the hands and feet. Blisters may appear as a single blister or in clusters.

Causes

• Although friction and burns are a common cause of blisters, other causative agents include frostbite, allergic reactions and physical injury. Bacterial skin infections, such as impetigo, and viral infections like shingles and chickenpox also cause blisters. Another common virus that produces blisters is the herpes simplex virus, which produces cold sores or fever blisters in or around the mouth. Rare, but serious, health conditions such as inherited epidermolysis bullosa or autoimmune disorders like bullous pemphigoid and pemphigus can produce blisters all over the body.

Early Symptoms

• The first sign of a developing blister is the reddening of the skin around the affected area. This change in color indicates inflammation and can be painful or tender to the touch. The affected area may also be warm or tingly. Irritation or itchiness may occur if the blister is a result of a bug bite, allergic reaction or skin infection. It may take several hours for the blister to form after the skin turns red.

Late Symptoms

• A blister develops when the reddened area swells with a bubble-like appearance. Clear fluid accumulates underneath the swollen area. According to Skinsight, infected blisters may increase in size and appear red around the edge. If the blister contains pus, medical attention may be needed. The final stage of a blister occurs when it bursts or the fluid is no longer present. The skin from the blister may be dry or loose. Avoid peeling the skin to prevent injury to other areas; it will peel off naturally.

Treatment and Prevention

• Little treatment is required for blisters because they usually heal on their own.

  Keep the area clean and dry. It can be covered with a bandage to prevent further friction or pressure. Do no pop blisters because it can lead to infection, especially if you have an autoimmune disease, diabetes or poor circulation. Wearing gloves or socks on the hands and feet as well as properly sized shoes can help prevent blisters.