1. Blister Blues
Most people have had at least one blister in their lives, whether it's from wearing tight shoes for too long, a reaction to a burn or from an illness, such as chicken pox or fever blisters. These fluid filled sacs sometimes cause pain and if you don't treat them correctly, they can become infected.
2. To Pop or Not to Pop
Don't pop a blister less than 1-inch across; it will heal on its own. If your blister is in an uncomfortable spot, like on the bottom of your foot, or is being rubbed by clothing, pop it with a sterilized needle. Squeeze the fluid out of the hole, leave the flap of skin on and then apply an antibiotic ointment and a loose gauze bandage. Change the bandage daily to prevent infection.
3. Mysterious Blisters Need Attention
Don't ignore unexplained blisters; it is possible you have an infection, illness or some other condition, especially if you have itching, fever and/or chills. Spider bites, scabies, impetigo, poison oak or ivy and some medication reactions cause blisters and need the attention of your doctor.
4. Beware of Foot Blisters
The most common blisters appears on the foot after wearing shoes that don't fit correctly or from participating in sports for a long period with new shoes. The friction causes the top layer of skin to separate and the space to fill with lymph fluid. To prevent them, get a correct fit for your shoes, keep your feet dry and invest in the new wicking socks. If you have a "hot spot," apply a commercial skin covering like Second Skin. For a better fit, buy new shoes in the middle of the day when you have some swelling. Measure your feet every year or two. Your feet change size as you get older and if you're a woman, your foot size will probably change after you give birth.
5. It's Not All About the Feet
You can prevent blisters that aren't from illness or that appear on another part of your body. Drinking plenty of fluids is one key to staying blisterless. Staying hydrated means you will freely sweat, which will prevent chafing and blistering. Don't wear skintight or loose-fitting clothes, as both have a tendency to cause blisters. Sprinkle talcum powder in clothing and shoes to stay dry and reduce friction. Pull out the petroleum jelly and lube any spots that chafe to prevent blisters and chafing.
