Hand blisters are caused by friction injuries or eczema and should not be popped to avoid infection. Treatment includes covering the blister with a bandage or gauze and letting it heal naturally. Burns can also cause blisters and should be treated by a doctor.
Hand blisters can be a bothersome problem for patients of all ages. The most common causes of hand blisters are friction injuries or a skin condition known as eczema. A blister is basically an area of injured skin that develops a blister-like appearance due to fluid buildup between the layers of skin. In most cases, the blister should not be opened as an infection could occur. The typical treatment for most blisters, especially those caused by friction, is to cover the blister with a bandage or piece of gauze and let it heal naturally.
Friction is by far the most common cause of hand blisters. This can occur from any type of repetitive movement, such as raking leaves or sweeping the floors in your home. This type of injury is relatively common but generally does not require medical attention. Patients with certain medical conditions, however, including diabetes, should allow a doctor to examine any type of skin lesion.
A certain type of eczema known as dyshidrosis frequently causes multiple blisters on the hands. The blisters caused by this skin condition often itch and cause pain at the same time. These blisters can be prone to infection when they open. It is therefore often advisable to apply an antibiotic ointment to the affected area before covering it with a bandage. A doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating skin conditions, called a dermatologist, should be consulted if dyshidrosis is suspected, as this condition can be particularly difficult to cure.
Burns are another potential cause of blistered hands. In this case, the blistered hand should be washed gently in sterilized water or hydrogen peroxide. The patient should be careful to pat the skin dry while drying and avoid rubbing. The affected area should then be covered very loosely with sterile gauze to prevent bacteria from entering the wound. The patient should then immediately refer to a doctor for further treatment.
Regardless of the reason for the hand blisters, the patient should never attempt to pop one of these blisters, as this greatly increases the risk of infection. There are many types of bacteria that have become immune to many of the antibiotics currently available, so it is best to avoid the chances of contamination from these bacteria. If the blister needs to be opened, it should be done by a doctor under sterile conditions.
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