Blood blisters are cluster of fluid that is collected on the upper epidermal layer of the skin. Blood blisters are formed only when the outer layer (epidermis) is damaged. Fluids get collected under the damaged skin for providing support for the tissues below. This process of fluid collection acts as a protective cover for the tissue underneath so that it heals quickly.
Blood blisters contain clear fluid collection called serum. Serum is actually the blood which contains no red blood cells and clotting agents. Blisters normally do not contain any blood but in rare cases they are filled with blood due to inflammation or infection Blisters occur anywhere on the body where the skin is injured or damaged. It often occurs on hands and feet.
Causes :
- Blisters are caused due to skin injury or due to torn skin. When skin is exposed with harsh chemicals like detergent it can lead to formation of blisters. Blood blisters can be caused due to excess of heat like that of sunburn. Sometimes, underlying diseases like impetigo and chickenpox can also cause blisters.
- Blood blisters can be caused due to constant rubbing of the skin which is often caused for baseball pitchers. It can occur when sharp tool tears the skin. Frostbite can also cause blisters on the skin.
Symptoms :
Blood blisters are seen mostly on the hands or feet when the skin is injured or cracked. It is the collection of serum fluid in the damaged area of the skin. It may or may not cause pain. In case of infection, blood blisters turn red in color with moderate swelling. They look like small lesions on the skin with fluid inside.
For some people, infected blisters will contain yellow or green pus inside and it will be painful. Blisters will heal within 3-7 days without taking any treatment. In case if the blisters continue to give pain or not healing within 7 days you need to consult your doctor.