crack easily and introduce bacteria into wounds. Oil-based moisturizers like petroleum jelly, ointments, and sports lubricants are all good options.
5. Protect The Problem Areas
Though these areas can vary from one person to the other, there are certain parts of the feet that are vulnerable to blisters. You can protect them by using soft bandages, sports tape, moleskin, or special patches. If you’re looking for personalized recommendations, talk to your doctor.
How To Treat Your Blisters
Generally, you can treat a blister by keeping it clean, covered, and protected. First, dermatologists recommend using a bandage but pushing the ends up so that the middle is raised.
Alternatively, you can protect the blister by surrounding it with padding, then applying a bandage over the blister. Doing this ensures that the blister can heal without further irritation.
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In most cases, blisters heal by themselves in 2-5 weeks. However, some of them get worse and they need to be drained of the fluid they contain. Since you’re dealing with diabetes, it’s recommended that you have this done by your doctor. After the blister has been drained, you can take care of it by using the medication your doctor prescribes and keeping the area clean.
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When To See A Doctor
As noted in the previous section, it’s possible for most people to treat blisters without a doctor’s intervention. Those with diabetes aren’t always that lucky, though. You have to be on the lookout for any changes that indicate that you’ve developed an infection.
If the blister gets larger, becomes more painful, gets redder, or you have signs of a fever, you need to see a doctor. Even if none of those occur, you should be careful with a blister that needs to be drained. This kind of drainage needs to be done by a doctor so that the blister doesn’t get infected.
While it’s great to stay physically active, you have to take additional precautions against blisters when you’re living with diabetes. Once you learn how to prevent them, you can enjoy your walks a lot more. If you still develop them, however, it’s best to take care of them quickly and see your doctor for those that need to be drained.
