TRAVEL HEALTH
BLISTERS

Blisters occur when fluid collects under the top layer of skin. Blisters can vary in size from that of a pinhead to, in some cases, large swellings the size of a pencil end or bigger. Treatment is dependent on the cause of the blister. Causes include:

Friction to any part of the skin leads to soreness, and in most cases, blisters. These usually occur on the feet as a result of ill fitting shoes or over walking, and on fingers and shoulders after carrying a heavy rucksack or suitcase. The blisters form quickly, are usually painful and contain a clear fluid.

Sunburn (see Sunburn & Sunstroke section) is a common cause of blisters.

Coldsores are due to a herpes virus which can be triggered in the skin around the mouth by strong sunlight and may sometimes form small blisters.

SELF-CARE

What you can do yourself

Injury

If the blister is on the hands or feet, think of what you may have done that caused them. If it is the result of lots of walking or carrying heavy suitcases then stop this activity as soon as possible.

Clear blisters

Blisters on the hands and feet can be very painful. This can be relieved by simple painkillers (such as Paracetamol or Aspirin) or putting an ice pack on the blister and surrounding area.

Urea based skin creams can help soothe blisters.

In cases where the blisters are very tense and painful, a sterile needle (or ordinary pin/needle sterilised by putting in a hot flame for five seconds and cooling) can be used to pierce the skin at the side of the blister once or twice, where it meets the skin. Clean tissue or gauze can be used to squeeze the fluid out. The area is best left open to the air. If there is a danger of contamination, it is advisable to keep the area covered.

Infection

White (pus-filled) blisters

If the blister is very painful and painkillers have not helped and you cannot see a doctor within a few hours, piercing the blister will help (as discussed earlier). In this case, keep the blister covered.

Contact a doctor

If the blister becomes full of yellow fluid or pus. Antibiotics and/or drainage under aseptic conditions are usual.

If after piercing a blister, the skin becomes red, painful and tender.

If blisters begin to increase in numbers and size. You may also notice that they become more itchy.

If you have a pre-existing illness (such as diabetes) or are taking drugs, such as steroids which may effect your immune system.

If you get more blisters with no obvious cause.

Contact a doctor immediately

If you think that your blister(s) may be related to the medicine that you are taking.

If you become feverish and generally unwell.

If you think you may have blisters or shingles around the eye. The eye can become infected which may lead to scarring and blindness.

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Email: info@whatshouldido.com