Blisters
Overview
Blisters often heal on their own within a week. They can be painful while they heal, but you will not usually need to see a GP.
Symptoms
Do not ignore an infected blister. Without treatment it could lead to a skin or blood infection.
Treatment
A GP might burst a large or painful blister using a sterilised needle. If your blister is infected, they may prescribeantibiotics. They can also offer treatment and advice if blisters are caused by a medical condition.
Prevention
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. Blood blisters appear when blood vessels in the skin have also been damaged. If you often get friction blisters on your feet or hands: wear comfortable, well-fitting shoeswear new shoes for short periods of time, until they're comfortablewear thick socks during exercise, such as moisture-wicking sports sockschange your socks frequently if you get sweaty feetwear protective gloves when you exercise or if you use tools at work