Draining Blisters
If your blister is in an awkward place or the pressure of the fluids building is painful, you may want to drain the fluid. If you do, it is best to leave the outer skin as a protective barrier and take precautions to avoid infection.
Clean the blister with a sterilizing solution, like rubbing alcohol or antibacterial soap.- Sterilize a needle by heating it in a flame and at least dousing it with rubbing alcohol.
- Insert the needle gently into the base of the blister, making a small hole.
- Gently squeeze and drain the fluids from inside the blister.
- Put a triple-antibiotic ointment on the wound to protect from infection.
- Carefully dress the area with a clean bandage that is absorbent, but won’t stick to the wound. Change this dressing anytime it get soiled or overly wet.
If your blister pops itself in daily activity, take the same care as above. However if the rip in the epidermis is large, you’ll want to trim off the excess skin with sterilized scissors.
Blisters caused by more complex problems may need to be handled in different ways:
Eczema: Corticosteroid cream
Viral Infections: Antiviral medications
Bacterial Infections: Antibiotics
Allergic Reactions: Allergen is removed from environment
Chicken pox: Let run full course
Itching blisters: Treated with hydrocortisone
If your reaction to medication or any other means of blistering is severe, you should immediately see your doctor.
2. Know When to Contact Your Doctor
Sometimes blisters can merely be symptom of a larger medical problem. Painful blisters of unknown origin should not be taken lightly and you should visit your doctor immediately. Signs of infection like increased redness, swelling and pain should also lead you to your doctor’s office. If you are feeling ill in general, see your doctor to make sure your blisters are not a sign of a major medical concern.