$Unique_ID{BRK00537}
$Pretitle{}
$Title{Over Cautious About Blister?}
$Subject{blister blister Skin bullae infections antibiotics hypertension
excessive heat cold Poison Ivy oak sumac bullous disorders infection}
$Volume{L-20}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991-92,1993   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Over Cautious About Blister?


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QUESTION:  My wife showed me a blister or two that had formed on her arm.
They are not large or tender, and look like any ordinary blister that I have
ever seen.  I wanted to puncture them with a needle sterilized in a match
flame, but she wouldn't let me, saying that they could be the sign of
something serious.  I don't need unnecessary medical bills.  Is she being over
cautious, or should I just perform my minor surgery?

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ANSWER:  Unless you can find a rational explanation for the formation of these
blisters, your wife may be justified in her concern.  Blisters (doctors call
them "bullae") may result from many ordinary circumstances, such as a burn, or
the irritation of a tight fitting shoe.  When you know the cause to be a
simple one, they are best left alone without your surgical assistance, for
they break and heal in their own good time, as the tender skin beneath
reforms.  However, it is true that there are a number of other reasons that
such lesions develop that require a bit more attention, and the examination
and advice of your physician may truly be necessary.  Certain drugs can cause
eruptions of blisters, including medications used for arthritis, infections
(antibiotics) and hypertension.  Of course not every one develops these liquid
filled bumps when taking the drugs, but it may happen in those who are
particularly sensitive to medications.  Exposure to excessive heat or cold or
harsh chemical products may be the reason.  Poison Ivy, oak, and sumac also
produce similar lesions.  In addition, there are several diseases that may be
the cause of the problem, known as bullous disorders.  Your best action is to
take stock now and determine if there are any explanations, such as those I
have given you, to explain the presence of the blisters.  Are they changing or
spreading, are any other symptoms developing such as fever and fatigue, or
have other skin problems or rashes developed?  If by now they have resolved,
as I suspect they might, there never was any cause for alarm.  If not, put
your needle away; it is time to see your physician.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.