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| Friction Blisters on Feet |
What are Blisters?
A blister may form when the skin has been damaged by friction or rubbing,
heat, cold or chemical exposure. Fluid collects between the epidermis, the
upper layer of the skin and the layers below. This fluid cushions the tissue underneath, protecting it from further damage and allowing it to heal.
The most common blister is a friction blister that occur due to friction
caused by constant rubbing of shoes or clothing.
Types of Blisters
Friction or Rubbing- caused by wearing shoes; moist feet; rubbing clothes,
etc.
Extreme Temperature (Hot or Cold)- caused by sun burns or frostbite.
Chemical- caused by solvents, cosmetics, chemicals, reaction to insect bites, etc.
Crushing or Pinching- caused by hitting or pinching skin with tools or other objects, etc.
Disease- caused by chicken pox, herpes, eczema, cutaneous radiation syndrome,etc.
Symptoms:
Bubble-like structures on skin
Redness over the area
Itching
Pain
Treatment:
Make a hole at the edge of blister. Use a sterilized needle or pin (Pin/needle sterilized by passing over flame). Drain the accumulated fluid Keeping the skin intact to prevent infection.
Clean blister with gauze containing iodine/alcohol and apply antibiotic
ointment. Cover with adhesive bandage for small blisters. Use porous, bandage for large ones.
Do not puncture blister if painless; Do not puncture a blood-filled blister. Blisters disappear in a few days time. Diabetics should consult doctor.
Prevention of Blisters:
Wear the right size shoes
Wear gloves when working with tools
Cover the potential area with tape or moleskin
Keep feet dry always
Keep body parts prone to heat or cold injuries covered and protected
Stay Prepared! Stay Alive!
Charlie
