More about Blisters...
Common Causes
- They are caused by excessive friction or pressure over a certain area of your foot.
- A blister will form where the skin is being pinched and rubbed, for example between tight fitting shoes and your skin.
- They can be caused by heat and moisture as well as pressure.
- Blisters can form as a result of fungal and viral
- infections, allergic reactions or burns - including sunburn.
- Sweaty, very moist feet.
- Insect bites.
Main Symptoms
- The presence of a puffy, liquid filled bubble on your skin.
- Sometimes they can "pop" by themselves and become infected.
- A large blister is typically larger than 5mm across.
Cathy Bowen
MSc DPodM ILTM, Podiatrist
Blisters
Blisters are very uncomfortable, raised, and fluid filled bumps that often appear on your feet. They are not harmful at all but can cause you quite a lot of pain.
Suggested Treatments for Blisters
Keep the area clean and protected.
Remove the source of the problem - such as tight shoes.
Soak the foot in a mixture of water and Epsom salts.
Do not "pop" a blister. If it does "break" don’t take the top layer of skin off, but keep it on to protect the area.
Treating your condition
The Traffic Light symbol at the top of each condition page indicates the way you should approach it:
Red: Seek professional help immediately, either from a suitably qualified Podiatrist or Physiotherapist.
Amber: You can treat this condition yourself BUT you should seek professional help if you want reassurance that what you are doing is the best approach for you.
Green: You can treat this condition yourself if you feel comfortable doing so. However, for further reassurance it might be as well to talk the condition through with a suitably qualified Podiatrist.
Remember this advice is for guidance only and if you are in any doubt at all, please consult your nearest HPC Registered Podiatrist.