Is it normal for a blister to hurt

If the blister is left unpopped, the body gradually absorbs the fluid as the underlying skin recovers. This can take around one week.

Depending on the cause and location, a blister can range from the size of a pinprick to three centimetres or more in diameter. A blood blister is usually caused by a severe pinch or bruise to the skin that breaks the tiny blood vessels capillaries. Blisters rarely need medical attention, unless they are severe, recurrent, caused by burns or are due to an underlying infection. When treating a blister, if possible, resist the temptation to burst it.

You could cause an infection or hinder your body's healing process. If this is not possible, the best way to burst a blister is to clean the area with soap or disinfectant and then prick the blister with a needle heated over a flame to sterilise it.

Allow the fluid to slowly escape and the roof of the blister to collapse down onto the blister base. The roof then acts as a dressing that can be further covered with a dressing or sticking plaster. Do not remove the blister roof, as that will delay healing and increase the risk of infection. If the blister refills over the next day or so, you can repeat the process. If your blister requires treatment by a health professional, this may include depending on the cause of the blister :.

This page has been produced in consultation with and approved by:. The type of pain felt in the abdomen can vary greatly. If a blister does become infected, the person will need to speak to a doctor. The doctor will usually prescribe antibiotic tablets or a topical ointment or cream to help the body fight the bacteria that are causing the infection.

People can also use blister bandages to protect the skin and potentially speed up healing. Many varieties and sizes are available in drugstores, supermarkets, and online. If a person suspects a skin infection, they should avoid using blister pads unless a doctor recommends them. Noticing and treating the infection early will usually prevent complications.

Without treatment, the infection can potentially involve more areas of the skin or enter the bloodstream. Cellulitis is a common skin infection that can be serious. It happens when germs get into the deep layers of skin and affect the tissue underneath. People may also develop a fever and blisters on the surface of the infected area. Red or swollen skin that feels warm or tender is the first sign of cellulitis.

If a person does not get treatment, the infection can spread into the bloodstream. Bacteremia refers to bacteria in the blood. It happens when an infection in one part of the body spreads into the bloodstream. Sepsis happens when the body reacts too strongly to the germs as they spread through the blood.

The body uses inflammation as part of its natural defense system. As it works to fight the germs in the blood, the inflammation and resulting changes in the blood flow cause life-threatening organ dysfunction. Sometimes, sepsis can lead to septic shock. In this situation, the person requires certain medications to keep their blood pressure at a safe level. People with diabetes should be extra careful of blisters on their feet because some people who have had the condition for a long time are unable to feel pain in this part of the body.

As a result, a blister can go unnoticed, increasing the chances of it becoming infected or progressing to an ulcer. People with insulin dependent diabetes have a higher risk of developing a foot ulcer.

Individuals with diabetes-related kidney, eye, and heart disease , as well as those who smoke or drink alcohol, may also be more likely to develop a foot ulcer. People should keep blisters clean and dry throughout the healing period.

A bacterial, viral, or fungal infection that starts in your blister can spread to other areas. It can even result in sepsis.

This is a life-threatening infection of the bloodstream. Most blisters are tender and painful, some more than others. However, there are a few reliable signs you can look for. Before examining your blister, wash your hands with warm water and soap to avoid introducing any bacteria. If you suspect that your blister is infected, consult your doctor as soon as possible. There are many different things that can cause infections, so your doctor may perform a skin biopsy. In this procedure, your doctor takes a small tissue sample and analyzes it to determine its underlying cause.

They might also perform a quick in-office procedure to drain the blister. Doing it on your own can make the infection worse or cause it to spread to nearby areas. While you wait to see your doctor, there are a few things you can do at home to relieve your symptoms and fight the infection:. Shop for Neosporin , Bacitracin , and Advil online. Left untreated, serious infections can begin to spread to other areas of your body.

In addition, bacteria can enter the blistered skin and result in a condition called cellulitis. This is a rapidly spreading skin infection. It can quickly become a medical emergency if it spreads to your lymph nodes or bloodstream. If your blister is infected, they may prescribe antibiotics.

They can also offer treatment and advice if blisters are caused by a medical condition. Blisters develop to protect damaged skin and help it heal. They're mostly caused by friction, burns and skin reactions, such as an allergic reaction.