Blister
- For the packaging type, see Blister pack. For the cancelled television series, see Blister (TV series).
| Blister | |
|---|---|
| Specialty | Dermatology  |
A blister or bulla is a defense mechanism of the human body. When the outer (epidermis) layer of the skin separates from the fibre layer (dermis), a pool of lymph and other bodily fluids collect between these layers while the skin re-grows from underneath. Blisters can be caused by chemical or physical injury. An example of chemical injury would be an allergic reaction. Physical injury can be caused by heat, frostbite, or friction.
Cause
Blisters typically develop when there is friction and irritation to the surface layer of the skin and cause it to separate from the second layer. Fluid fills in the space between these two layers. Blisters most often appear on the soles of the feet and palms of the hands. The hands and feet often rub against shoes, socks, or sports equipment and create friction and these moist, warm conditions are perfect for blisters.
Prevention
To prevent blisters, the goal is to minimize friction. Appropriate footwear and socks will help reduce blisters. Making sure that shoes are the right size and shape, and that socks are made from a synthetic blend is an effective way of reducing the occurrence of blisters. Other effective ways to reduce blisters is to apply petroleum jelly or talcum powder before exercising to reduce friction.
Treatment
Unless infection occurs, blisters usually heal quickly without much additional treatment. If a blister is punctured, it forms an open wound so it is a good idea to bandage it when one is working around unsanitary conditions. If the blister has 'popped,' the excess skin should not be removed, unless it is dirty or torn. Removing the excess skin often makes the wound more prone to further infection. As with all wounds, it is a good idea to keep blisters clean. If you get a blister, the goal is to keep the blister from getting bigger and avoiding infection. (Signs of infection include pus draining from the blister, very red or warm skin around the blister, and red streaks leading away from the blister). Small unbroken blisters that don't cause discomfort can be left alone to heal, because the best protection against infection is a blister's own skin.[1]
Variations
If a blister is associated with sub-dermal bleeding it will partially fill with blood, forming a blood blister. Certain autoimmune diseases feature extensive blistering as one of their symptoms. These include pemphigus and pemphigoid. Blistering also occurs as part of foodborne illness with Vibrio vulnificus (seafood). The class of chemical weapons known as vesicants acts by causing blisters (often within the respiratory tract). Mustard gas and lewisite are examples of such agents.
See also
External links
- How to Care for a Blister
- Blisters and Contact Dermatitis -- Med-Help.net, Medical Information Resource, 1999