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Blisters, Abrasions, and Skin Tears
Blisters  Blisters
form as a result of heat, moisture and friction. Blisters can also form
as a result of fungal infections of the skin, allergic reactions or
burns. If a patient has diabetes, they should be evaluated by a doctor
in a timely fashion. Generally, a person will recognize a burn by
association with a specific painful event. People with diabetes may not
be able recognize the painful event due to a condition called neuropathy. A doctor should attend to burns. Blisters are due to fungal infection of the skin or to allergic reactions,
which will generally occur in clusters and be smaller than blisters
caused by friction. They will also often occur in areas of the foot,
which are free from friction forces.
 Blisters
should be drained leaving the cover of the blister in tact. The area
should be protected with a non-stick bandage with mild compression. Ice
to "hot spots" can be soothing and reduce the thermal damage to the
surrounding area. "Double socking" can prevent blisters associated with
athletics. Wearing two pair of socks allows the friction to be absorbed
between the socks reducing friction to the skin. A sock has been
developed that helps to reduce friction and blistering called the
Thro-lo sock. It is useful for athletics and for diabetic patients.
They are widely available in athletic shoe and apparel stores. Skin
protectant sprays and adhesive gel pads are also available.
Abrasions Abrasions
to the skin are a result of excessive friction resulting in the partial
loss of the epidermis. The area should be cleaned with an antibacterial
soap and dressed with a non-stick bandage and a topical antibiotic
ointment. It may take several weeks for the area to completely heal.
During this period, the area should be protected from shearing forces.
Deep abrasions can result in scaring. Any sign of infection should
prompt a visit to the doctor. Skin Tears Skin
Tears result from a rapid, forceful shear to the skin. Skin tears are
most commonly self inflicted by improperly removing adhesive dressings
and tape. Careful counter pressure should be applied to the skin near
the adhesive dressing as the dressing or tape is slowly removed. A
common misconception is that paper tape will not damage the skin. To
the contrary this tape can really stick to the skin and will tear the
skin if removed improperly.
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