How to tell if a popped blister is infected?

Blisters are annoying and uncomfortable, but they’re usually nothing to worry about. However, when a blister pops, it can become infected and lead to serious complications. Fortunately, there are several ways you can tell whether your popped blister has become infected so that you can take appropriate action.

What Causes Blisters?

Before we dive into how to tell if a popped blister is infected, let’s first explore what causes blisters in the first place. Blisters form when the outer layer of skin separates from the inner layers due to friction or pressure. Fluid then fills the space between the layers as protection for underlying tissues.

Common causes of blisters include:

  • Friction caused by wearing ill-fitting shoes
  • Repetitive motions such as running or playing tennis
  • Burns or sunburns
  • Allergic reactions
  • Certain medical conditions such as chickenpox

Signs of an Infected Blister

An infected blister may have some — but not necessarily all — of these signs:

Redness Around The Area Of The Blister

If you notice redness around your popped blister (which would probably already be noticeable) , this could be a sign that it’s infection. This happens because white blood cells rush towards bacteria trying to fight off any possible infections which leads to inflammation.

Increasing Pain

It’s normal for pain/sensitivity on your damaged area after popping your

blister even without commotion from touch nor rubbing over clothes/fabric; however increased pains might suggest something else including diseases like Herpes Simplex cream.

Swelling/Inflammation Around The Wound

When swelling occurs around an open wound – particularly in small increments over time or with acute changes – one should consider infection as a probable cause It’is also good idea try and get rid off anything that’s causing discomfort and irritation as this can lead to complications.

Discharge from The Wound

One sign that your blister has become infected is if there’s discharge or pus coming from the wound. This may also be accompanied by a foul odor — not pleasant, but it’s still relevant information for evaluating what needs treatment!

Fever

If you have a fever along with other signs of an infected blister, this is a strong indication that you need medical attention ASAP! You should go see your doctor right away.

What Do I Do If My Blister Is Infected?

So, now that we know how to tell if our popped blister has become infected — what do we actually do about it? Here are some steps you can take:

  1. Keep the area clean: wash gently with soap and water two times per day
  2. Cover the wound with sterile dressing: after washing your hands use disinfectant on any open wounds before applying sterile patches.
  3. Avoid touching/messing around the affected area unnecessarily when moving or changing clothes/taking baths until full healing is achieved
  4. Take pain relievers like ibuprofen: Tthis could also work in reducing swelling caused by inflammation
  5. Seek professional help when necessary

  6. If drainage continues past 24 hours then seek professional help immediately from a qualified medical professional who might prescribe you antibiotics

6.Do A Warm Compress (Optional): Warm compresses done once every few hours have been reported to alleviate pain caused by blisters

Note: It’s important NOT TO POP an already created good fluid-filled blister; and if forced to pop due to size/orientation/difficult position ensure one disinfects surface well onto avoid possible infections

Wrapping Up

Blisters pre-exist everywhere and they get worse when they pop up especially based on their initial formation cause which largely pertains friction/pressure-related issues. Identifying an infected blister is important to seek ongoing medical help when necessary as it can further lead to more complications.

Awareness of causes, signs and precautions like aseptic dressing use with regular proper cleaning will minimize the occurrence chances of developing blisters hence maintaining living life in comfort.

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