Diabetic blisters are defined as spontaneous eruption of blisters on the skin among those diagnosed with diabetes. Even though the blisters might appear alarming if initially seen, they are relatively painless and eventually heal on their own without leaving behind any scars.
Characteristics
Diabetic blisters typically manifest on the feet, legs and toes. In some cases, they form on the fingers, arms and hands.
The blisters can grow up to 6 inches and often appear the same as blisters after being burned except the pain. The blisters seldom arise as a single lesion but as bilateral or as clusters.
The skin bordering the blisters is not reddened or swollen. If it is, a doctor must be seen. Diabetic blisters often contain a transparent, sterile fluid and generally itchy.
What is the cause?
The precise cause of diabetic blisters is unknown. Most lesions form without any known injury. Using shoes that do not properly fit can result to blisters. In some cases, a fungal infection with the Candida albicans causes blisters among those with diabetes.
Remember that an individual is likely to develop blisters if the blood sugar level is not properly controlled.
Management of diabetic blisters
Due to the risk for infection and ulceration among those with diabetes, a doctor must be seen to rule out other serious skin conditions. The blisters typically recuperate in 2-5 weeks without treatment.
The fluid inside the blisters is considered sterile. Infection can be prevented by avoiding breaking the blisters. If large, the doctor will drain the fluid. This keeps the skin intact as protection for the wound which is seldom the case once the blister breaks by accident.
An antibiotic cream or ointment can be used to treat the blisters and covered with bandage to prevent further injury. The doctor might prescribe a steroid cream if the itchiness is severe.
It is also vital to keep the blood sugar levels properly controlled to prevent diabetic blisters or hasten the healing process if they are already present.