What Are Foot Blisters?
Foot blisters are small pockets or bubbles of fluid that form on the skin due to friction, heat, or irritation. They are common and can happen when shoes rub against your skin or if your feet become sweaty.
Symptoms of Foot Blisters
Blisters usually appear as:
- A raised area of skin filled with clear fluid
- Redness or tenderness around the blister
- Pain or discomfort when walking or wearing shoes
What Causes Foot Blisters?
Blisters are often caused by:
- Wearing poorly fitting shoes
- Excessive moisture from sweaty feet
- Long periods of walking or running
- Friction from socks or footwear
Treatment for Foot Blisters
Most blisters heal naturally within a few days. To help speed up recovery and reduce discomfort:
- Leave the blister intact if possible. The skin acts as a natural barrier to prevent infection.
- Cover the blister with a soft dressing or plaster to protect it from further rubbing.
- Avoid popping the blister unless it’s large or painful. If you must pop it, use a sterilised needle and clean the area thoroughly.
- Keep the area clean and dry to avoid infection. You can apply antiseptic cream if needed.
NHS Information on Blisters
This NHS link shares a few images of blisters which may be helpful… https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/blisters
Help at the Pharmacy
For foot blister relief and prevention, a pharmacist can recommend blister plasters or dressings, such as hydrocolloid dressings, to protect the blister and promote healing.
- Blister Plasters/Dressings:
- Hydrocolloid Dressings: These dressings are designed to absorb moisture and create a moist wound environment, which can help reduce pain and speed up healing.
- Other Plasters: Pharmacies also offer other types of plasters that provide cushioning and protection, preventing further rubbing and irritation.
- Preventing Infection:
- Sterile Dressings: Pharmacists can advise on using clean, dry, non-stick dressings like sterile gauze or plasters to protect the blister from infection.
- Antiseptic Creams & Ointments: They may recommend an over-the-counter antiseptic ointment to help prevent bacterial infection, especially if the blister is open or showing signs of infection.
- Pain Relief:
- Pain Medications: Pharmacists can suggest over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen to help manage pain and inflammation associated with blisters.
- Cold Packs: Applying a cold pack to the blister can help reduce pain and swelling.
When to See a GP
See your GP if:
- The blister is very painful, swollen, or filled with pus (signs of infection)
- The blister keeps returning or doesn’t heal after a few weeks
- You have diabetes or a weakened immune system, as foot problems can become more serious
Preventing Foot Blisters
You can help prevent blisters by:
- Wearing well-fitting shoes that support your feet
- Using moisture-wicking socks to keep your feet dry
- Applying blister prevention products like plasters or protective gels in high-friction areas
- Keeping your feet clean and dry
Summary
Foot blisters are common and usually heal on their own. By taking care of your feet, wearing suitable footwear, and managing friction, you can reduce the risk of developing blisters. If your blister becomes painful, infected, or doesn’t heal, seek medical advice.