Care for Blisters on a Heel
A blister is a bubble of fluid that forms under the skin to protect it from injury. Blisters, while merely part of the body's natural defense, can be painful and obstructive to everyday life. While the majority of blisters come and go as small hassles, there are the minor few that can become inflamed and dangerous. Blisters on the back or bottom of the heel can make everyday activities, like the simple act of walking, an arduous task. In addition, because of their location they are apt to become inflamed, open and become infected. If you get a blister on your heel you need to take extra precaution in the care and healing of it. If the blister remains intact and unopened, the protective barrier formed by the serum will help to speed up healing time, but if the blister opens, you’ll need to take extra care in preventing infection.
Instructions
1. Leave it alone. Blisters, like scabs, are the body's natural defense against injury. A blister forms when the skin is irritated by anything from allergies and diseases to medication and everyday irritants. If the serum bubble stays intact, the underlying skin will heel all on its own. Whenever possible, allow the blister to be open to the air, which will speed healing time, and when you must wear shoes or cover it with a sock, protect it with a bandage. For blisters on the bottom of the foot, cushion with mole skin.
2. Do not pick at dead skin. After a few days, the bubble formed by the blister will begin to flatten out as the underlying skin begins to heal. When this occurs, the top layer of skin will dry up. This dead skin will eventually peel off like a scab. Do not remove the dead skin by picking or cutting it. The dead skin of a blister is surrounded by and attached to living skin, and removing it can cause a flair up of inflammation and possible infection. Leave the dead skin alone and let it fall off on its own.
3. Disinfect an opened blister. If your blister does pop or begin to seep serum fluid, disinfect the area. Clean the area with soap and water and gently pat dry with a clean towel. Apply an antibiotic cream and let the blister breathe. Treat an opened blister like a wound and disinfect it at least twice a day.
4. Protect your blister. When you can’t leave the blister to the open air, protect it. Use a thin layer of antibacterial cream and apply a bandage. For sensitive blisters, you may need the added cushion provided by mole skin.
5. Wear appropriate footwear. For blisters on the heel, avoid wearing shoes that interrupt the healing process. Whenever possible, wear backless shoes or flip flips. If you need to wear shoes with backs, bandage and pad the wound as outlined in Step 4.
6. Beware of infection. Physical symptoms of infection include nauseousness and fever. Also watch your blister to see if it shows signs of infection, like increased inflammation, oozing of blood or puss, or increased pain. If you see a red line forming from the blister site, you may have a staff infection. If any of these symptoms occur, contact your doctor immediately.
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