$Unique_ID{BRK00819}
$Pretitle{}
$Title{What Causes Small Blisters That Can Cover the Foot?}
$Subject{blisters blister feet foot itch rash rashes Skin mental emotional
stress dyshidrosis eczema steroid cream fungus fungal infection infections
diseases erythema multiforme}
$Volume{A-20,E-20}
$Log{}

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


What Causes Small Blisters That Can Cover the Foot?


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QUESTION:  Every now and then my feet break out in small blisters that itch
terribly.  They can cover my foot and I can find no relief.  Wearing different
shoes has not helped.  What's going on?

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ANSWER:  Do the blisters tend to come when you're under emotional stress?  If
so, it is possible that the name of your condition is dyshidrosis.  This form
of eczema shows up only on the feet and hands, and it's often triggered by
stress.  Though there's no cure, you can get substantial relief with a steroid
cream your doctor will prescribe.
     Other causes of blisters on the feet are allergies and fungal diseases
like athlete's foot, though with both of these you'll also see some swelling
not present in dyshidrosis.  Less frequently, the blisters signal a condition
called erythema multiforme.  The blisters come up like a bull's eye in the
middle of an inflamed area.
     Anytime you have blisters on your feet that you can't blame on
ill-fitting footwear, see your dermatologist, podiatrist, or family physician.
Try to think back on all the things that may have been happening in your life,
as well as changes in your laundry soap, cosmetics or other chemicals which
may come in contact with your feet.  With this help your doctor will probably
be able to solve the mystery of your blisters easily.

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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.