Blisters
Blisters are described as small pockets of fluid that usually form in the upper layers of the skin. Fluid in a blister is not always a bad thing; it can actually serve as a cushion to protect tissues from further damage and so allow the wound to heal. Blisters can be filled with the following fluid:
- Clear fluid known as serous (yellow straw like appearance)
- Blood (blood blisters)
- Pus, which can form in the blister if infection has developed
Most blisters will heal without medical attention within three to seven days.
Treatment of an intact blister
- Blisters should always be left intact, where possible, to allow healing to progress. If a blister is restricting movement of a joint or limb, seek medical advice from a health care professional
- To protect a blister, a strong adhesive dressing should be applied to protect the skin against further friction and / or damage; this should be left in place until the dressing falls off
Treatment of a burst blister
- Occasionally a blister will burst and then a wound is exposed
- Treatment of these types of blisters should be to prevent the area from getting infected whilst it heals
The following steps should be taken:
- Wash and dry your hands prior to commencing any treatment
- Clean the area with tap / drinking water
- Pat the area dry with a clean towel
- Do not cut or remove any of the excess skin
- Allow all the fluid from the blister to drain freely
- Apply a sterile absorbent dressing to protect it from infection or contamination
Caution: If you consider the blister to be infected, seek advice from a healthcare professional.
