What Causes Blood Blisters? Understanding Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Blood blisters arise when blood vessels beneath the skin are injured, yet the skin’s surface remains undamaged. These blisters appear as raised, fluid-filled lumps that turn red or purple when filled with blood. Although they commonly develop on the hands, feet, fingers, and angular areas like heels and toes, they can occur anywhere on the body.

Blood blisters on the skin usually heal on their own, but those near the mouth may require careful attention. To understand more about blood blisters, including their causes, symptoms, and treatment options, read on!

What Are the Causes of Blood Blisters?

While blood blisters can appear on anyone, they are more common among physically active individuals or those who rely heavily on their hands and feet for work. The most prevalent causes include:

1. Severe frostbite.
2. Crushing a finger with a hammer or in a closed door.
3. Wearing ill-fitting shoes that rub on your heels.
4. Using improperly fitted protective gloves that chafe your fingers.
5. Performing strenuous tasks by hand without gloves.
6. Lifting weights heavier than you can handle.
7. Marathon running.

Blood blisters in the mouth are often linked to additional health issues, such as mouth cancer, dietary deficiencies, allergies, kidney failure, high blood pressure, or blood disorders.

What Are the Symptoms of Blood Blisters?

Symptoms of blood blisters may vary, but the most common include:

1. A raised, hard, dome-shaped bubble of skin colored red, purple, or black.
2. Discomfort or soreness in the blister region, especially around nerve roots.
3. Throbbing pain under the blister.
4. Redness surrounding the blister.
5. A stinging sensation.
6. Skin pigmentation around the blister.

A large or itchy blood blister may indicate infection. In such cases, seek medical attention promptly to prevent the spread of bacteria.

How Is a Blood Blister Diagnosed?

If you suspect your blood blister is serious, a doctor will likely inquire about its cause. Blood blisters are often diagnosed without extensive medical tests. Typically, a physical examination suffices to identify a blood blister and rule out surrounding infections. During a checkup, your doctor will assess the blister’s location, size, and color to make a reliable diagnosis. If the cause is unclear, blood tests or procedures like a biopsy may be recommended, especially for blisters with unusual appearances or locations.

How Do You Treat a Blood Blister?

The most effective way to treat a blood blister is to allow it to heal naturally. While it may be tempting to burst the blister, doing so can lead to infection. Follow these tips for treatment:

• Gently wash the blister with mild soap and water.
• Apply an antibacterial cream or ointment.
• Cover the blister with a bandage or cotton.
• If discomfort is significant, take over-the-counter pain relief like Tylenol (acetaminophen) or Advil (ibuprofen).
• Apply an ice pack to the blister for 10 to 15 minutes at least twice daily to alleviate pain.
• For oral blisters, drink cold water or suck on ice chips.

When to Seek Professional Help?

Blood blisters often resolve on their own, but medical attention may be necessary if they have a unique appearance or size. Consult a doctor if:

1. There’s no clear cause for the blister.
2. The blister does not heal within two weeks.
3. The pain is severe and persistent.
4. You feel excessive heat around the blister.
5. Itching or red spots appear, suggesting infection.
6. You experience difficulty walking or using your hands because of the blister.
7. You have multiple unexplained blisters.
8. You have diabetes, as foot injuries can worsen rapidly without care.
9. Blisters form in the mouth or on the eyelids.

How to Prevent Blood Blisters?

While it’s impossible to avoid all injuries, understanding the risks associated with blood blisters and taking necessary precautions can reduce their occurrence. Since blood blisters are common on hands and feet, protecting these areas from friction is crucial. Here are some preventive measures:

1. Wear durable gloves when working with your hands or handling heavy machinery.
2. Choose appropriately sized shoes to avoid pressure and friction on your feet.
3. Use drying powder in shoes to absorb moisture.
4. Be cautious with fingers when opening drawers, doors, and organizers.
5. Cover friction-prone skin areas with tape.
6. Apply petroleum jelly on your hands and feet to minimize irritation.

Protection is especially important in humid conditions, as moisture softens the skin and increases the risk of friction. To reduce moisture, use drying agents like antiperspirants or powders.

Conclusion

Blood blisters, filled with blood rather than clear liquid, typically result from trauma or injury. While they usually heal without issue, severe cases can stem from conditions like frostbite, chronic diabetes, kidney failure, or rheumatoid arthritis. Consult your doctor if a blood blister appears in an unusual location, such as the mouth, or has an odd appearance. Regardless of the cause, if you notice a blood blister, it’s wise to seek medical advice.