Blisters

Blisters are most generally caused by excessive friction on the skin, such as can be caused when shoveling dirt. While harmless, blisters can often be bothersome and sometimes painful. Blood blisters are very similar, except for the fact that a small blood vessel has been broken, usually due to a hard pinch or blow. Blood blisters range from reddish to dark brown in color.

Cover blisters with a bandaid or piece of gauze if you do not have the time to take care of them right away. This will help cushion them, and also protect it if it does burst.
Unless the blister has the feeling of pressure at the point of being painful, do not burst it. If you need to relieve the pressure, carefully poke it with a pin near the edge, and then gently squeeze out the fluid with a tissue. On blisters that you accidentally burst, or needed to relieve the pressure in, apply an antiseptic lotion and bandage if possible. Do not pull or rip the flap of skin. It will shed off when the derma underneath is ready.

Blisters can also be caused by burns (see article on burns), chicken pox and several other diseases. If you have widespread blisters, or blisters of unusual color, check with your physician.


Warning: No information in this post is intended to diagnose or prescribe a cure for any diseases. Consult your physician if you have any symptoms accompanying the blisters.