Tuesday, 06 December 2022 00:00

Causes and Complications of Foot Blisters

Blisters on the feet are pockets of fluid that form beneath the top layer of the skin to protect the lower layers from damage. Blisters on the toes, feet, or heels may be caused by friction, usually from pressure or rubbing against the inside of a shoe. Generally, a blister is filled with clear serum, but sometimes it may be filled with blood, or even pus if it becomes infected. As a rule, a blister will go away on its own in three to seven days. As new skin grows under the blister the serum will be reabsorbed into the body and the outer skin will dry up and flake off. However, it is important to remember that popping a blister can cause infection or inhibit the healing process. Wearing shoes that are comfortable and do not rub against the skin is a sure way of allowing a blister on the foot to heal, or preventing one from occurring in the first place. If you have a particularly painful blister, or one that appears to be infected, please make an appointment with a podiatrist. Antibiotics may be prescribed to ward off the infection, and the podiatrist may safely drain the blister in a sterile setting. 

Blisters may appear as a single bubble or in a cluster. They can cause a lot of pain and may be filled with pus, blood, or watery serum. If your feet are hurting, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot Surgery Specialists of Texas. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters are often the result of friction. This happens due to the constant rubbing from shoes, which can lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

Symptoms

(Blister symptoms may vary depending on what is causing them)

  • Bubble of skin filled with fluid
  • Redness
  • Moderate to severe pain
  • Itching

Prevention & Treatment

In order to prevent blisters, you should be sure to wear comfortable shoes with socks that cushion your feet and absorb sweat. Breaking a blister open may increase your chances of developing an infection. However, if your blister breaks, you should wash the area with soap and water immediately and then apply a bandage to the affected area. If your blisters cause severe pain it is important that you call your podiatrist right away.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in River Oaks and Sharpstown in Houston, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Blisters on the Feet

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