Blisters

Overview

A blister occurs when small pockets of fluid become trapped in your epidermis (the top layer of skin). It is a natural defense mechanism that prevents your skin from irritants. You can get blisters on any part of your body, and they tend to form over existing cuts. Sometimes, you may develop blisters if you are wearing uncomfortable shoes. Blisters can range in size and can be caused by continuous rubbing on the skin. Chemicals, burns, and diseases could also cause skin blistering.

Blisters can burn, and they can be painful. In general, you do not need a doctor. Your blister will likely go away on its own.

Sometimes, blisters will pop and release fluid. You should not pop a blister on purpose. If the blister pops and drains yellow or white pus, it is likely infected. Other signs of infection include redness around the blister or extreme pain. In this case, you should see a doctor or go to an emergency room. You may have a deep splinter that needs to be removed.

If blisters appear out of nowhere and persist, you might have a disease or infection like chickenpox or herpes. If you have blisters in your mouth or on your genitals, you should see a doctor to make sure that you do not have a sexually transmitted disease.

Frequent itchy blisters could indicate a dermatological condition like dermatitis herpetiformis. With persistent and uncomfortable blisters, you may need to see a dermatologist.

Treatment

Most blisters will heal without treatment. In order for blisters to heal, the irritant must be stopped. Wear different shoes, wear gloves, or wear garments to protect your skin. If these treatments do not work, you can try additional options.

Popping a Blister:

Do not pop a blister unless you absolutely have to. If the blister is large or painful, don't even think about popping it. If you're unsure about what to do, don't pop it. Consult a medical professional if you're ever unsure of what to do.

If you need to pop a blister, make sure that you keep everything sterile. Wash your hands with an antibacterial soap. If you use a needle, make sure that it is sterile. You can sterilize a needle by putting the end in a flame until it turns red or by using rubbing alcohol. Wash the area around your blister and puncture it with the sterilized needle. Squeeze the blister until all of the liquid oozes out. After the liquid has oozed out, treat the affected area with an antibiotic ointment. You can put a bandage over the wound. Make sure that you clean and monitor the wound regularly so that you do not develop an infection.

Blisters that Show Signs of Infection:

If your blister appears infected, you need to see a doctor. You may need a certain kind of ointment, or you may need antibiotics. If you have a deep splinter, the doctor will need to remove it. The doctor can also give you medications for pain and itching.

Skin Diseases:

If you suspect a skin disease, you should see a doctor as soon as possible. You might require extensive dermatological treatment. You might need oral and topical medications.