Blisters

and other bodily fluids between the layers of the epidermis or between it and the dermis.

Why are they formed?

Blisters represent an important defense mechanism for the body as they promote skin regeneration after burns or excessive rubbing.

If the repetition of these microtraumas persists over time, the lesion can involve the basal layers of the epidermis causing the capillaries to rupture and the accumulation of blood inside the bladder.

The presence of this small fluid-filled sac also prevents the contact of bacteria with the wound, removing the risk of infections.

Blisters usually arise in the areas most stressed by sporting activity such as the feet (runners, cyclists, footballers, etc.) and hands (skiers, basketball players, rowers, tennis players, etc.). Once a blister is torn, it becomes if the bladder is swollen enough to compress the underlying skin layers, rich in nerve endings, the pain occurs even before its rupture.

(too tight, too loose, too stiff or with raised internal seams)

The socks must be of the right size, without holes and well fitting to the foot

In skin areas subjected to greater stress it is good to apply moisturizing products, rubbing the skin regularly; in this way the leather will acquire greater softness and resistance to friction

Before training or competition, apply vaseline-based ointments to the most exposed areas to reduce friction from rubbing

Keep your feet dry as wet skin wears out easily

All materials used must be breathable: the combination of stagnation of liquids and rubbing is the ideal prerequisite for the appearance of blisters

Gradually increase your level of physical activity giving your skin time to adapt

it is reabsorbed and the skin is regenerated without leaving any marks or scars.

What to do in case of blisters

Once the blister has formed, it is therefore good to leave it intact, protecting it with a micro-perforated plaster (the holes in the protection are very important to let the bladder breathe). Sterile protection is absolutely necessary when exposed to dusty or otherwise unsanitary environments.

Only the largest and most annoying blisters can be punctured at one end with a sterile needle to allow the wound to dry, "breathe" and heal faster. The emptying of the bladder will be carried out by gently pressing on its walls. To avoid the danger of infections and promote wound healing, it is good to disinfect it carefully using, for example, mercury chromium. In these cases, the layer of skin that forms the walls of the bladder should not be removed for any reason.

Today there are special hydrocolloid patches that allow the bladder to breathe, making the maneuver just described useless. However, its perforation is necessary when the bladder is in an area particularly stressed by movements (for example in the sole of the foot). This prevents the blister from bursting in situations that do not allow immediate disinfection of the wound.

Treatment of blood-filled blisters should instead be left to expert personnel to avoid the danger of infection or further injury. The same goes for diabetics or for those suffering from circulatory problems.

If a blister wears out spontaneously, it is good to clean the wound with physiological solution and treat it as such (application of a plaster or non-adhesive gauze). For the same reason, especially if the swelling of the bladder suggests an imminent rupture, it is good to wash the affected area with soap and water. However, care must be taken not to leave the blisters to soak in water for too long, as maceration of the skin favors their breakage.

The accumulation of pus in the wound or an intense skin redness associated with local hyperthermia may be signs of an infection. In the presence of these symptoms it is advisable to consult a doctor for a check-up.

Continue reading: Foot Blisters: How and Why Do They Form? What NOT to do