Health Tip: Take Care of a Blister

To help prevent infection

Related Encyclopedia • Abscess • Actinomycosis • Acute Myeloid Leukemia (Adult) • AIDS and HIV Infection More... Related Healthscout Videos You Sure Could Use Some Sun Fighting HIV and AIDS: New Research Blood Cleaner New AIDS Drugs More... Related Animations • Acne • Eczema More... Related Drug Information • Abilify • Augmentin • Bactroban Cream • Bactroban Ointment More... Related News Articles • Old, Fat Mice Blamed for Virus Transmission • More Than 60,000 Patients Risked Hepatitis Infections • Winter Is Tough on Feet • Lingering Cold Symptoms May Mean Sinusitis More...

(HealthDay News) -- Blisters are fluid-filled sacs on the skin that can be caused by friction from clothing or shoes, burns, or certain disorders and conditions.

Text Continues Below

---

The University of Virginia Health System offers these suggestions for how to take care of a blister and prevent infection:

• Gently wash the blister with soap and water.
• Apply an ice pack to reduce pain and swelling.
• Never burst or puncture the blister.
• If the blister bursts on its own, cover it with a bandage or dressing to keep it clean and dry.
• Check the blister frequently for signs of infection, which could include warmth, redness, swelling, drainage, pus or pain. If you have any of these signs, contact your doctor without delay.

-- Diana Kohnle