Facts
  • Blisters are caused by pressure and friction over skin and are a symptom of burns.
  • Untreated blisters may lead to infection.

 

Causes of Injury
  • Skin irritation from pressure and friction
  • Burns

 

Prevention
  • Ensure that hiking boots fit by trying them on late in the day with double layer of socks.
  • Break-in hiking boots well in advance of using them in the field.
  • Pad pressure areas with moleskin at the first sign of irritation before a blister occurs.
  • Duct tape can substitute for moleskin in an emergency.

 

Planning / Packing Guide
  • Properly fitting boots that are well worn in
  • Socks that fit well and are wrinkle free
  • Moleskin (purchased in pharmacy near bandages)
  • Duct tape
  • First-Aid kit should include needle, alcohol pads, band-aids, gauze pads, and tape.

 

Symptoms
  • Fluid-filled sac under the skin (often at site of friction - where a shoe rubs against skin)
  • If a blister breaks, underlying tissue will be red, moist and painful.
  • Blisters may also occur within a reddened, burned area.

 

First Aid
  • If a blister is on an area unlikely to encounter friction or abrasion, let it heal on its own.
  • NEVER puncture a burn blister.
  • If blister is on an area that will rub or break:
    • clean the area with soap and water
    • puncture with a sterilized needle near the edge of the blister
    • gently press to expel the liquid from the blister
    • cover the area with band-aid or gauze pad and tape
    • change the dressing if it becomes damp with fluid from the blister
  • If blister is broken, clean and cover with a bandaid or gauze pad and tape.

 

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