Bullae are large blisters filled with fluid that form when liquid gets stuck under a thin surface of skin. The term “bullae” is the plural form of “bulla.” These blisters are bigger than small blisters, which are known as vesicles. For a blister to be called a bulla, it must be bigger than 0.5 cm (or 5 mm) in diameter.
Most bullae heal by themselves within a week. However, you should see a healthcare provider if your bullae are hurting, make it hard to move, or if they have blood in them. This is important to ensure there are no complications and to get the right treatment if needed.
Symptoms
The bullae symptoms are noticeable because the affected skin appears raised and typically contains a clear substance inside. If the bullae become infected, the fluid might look milky. Bullae caused by injury could also contain blood along with clear fluid.
When to consult a healthcare provider
It’s important to see your healthcare provider if you identify bullae so you can get the right diagnosis and medication. Usually, a friction blister will cure by itself. But it’s crucial to see your healthcare provider if the affected area is painful, limits your movement, or if the bullae are filled with blood.
If you have circulatory problems or diabetes, it’s especially important to talk to your doctor about your bullae. These conditions increase the risk of infection in your blisters.
In some cases, bullae can appear due to reactions to treatment or can be along with fever. These situations need emergency medical treatment.
Depending on the type of bullae you have; your healthcare provider might recommend home treatments or they may reduce the blister during your appointment. This helps to manage the condition effectively and prevent complications.
Treatment
Treating bullae involves different approaches depending on their cause and whether they require to be reduced. There are home remedies, medical treatments, and alternative options available.
Home Treatment
Bullae led by friction often heal on their own if left undisturbed. To protect the area and prevent further irritation, cover the bullae with a soft bandage, preferably made of gauze. Gauze takes moisture while allowing the bullae to air, aiding in natural healing.
Avoid popping or bursting the blisters yourself. Breaking the skin can introduce bacteria, leading to infection or worsening the condition.
Medical Treatment
If the blister or bulla requires draining, it should be done by a healthcare provider. This minimizes the chance of infection.
During the procedure, your healthcare provider will cleanse the area with a solution to remove dirt and bacteria. Then, using sanitized instruments, they will carefully puncture the blister to drain the fluid.
After draining, your healthcare provider will cover the area with a dry bandage. After a few days, if the skin covering the bullae has dried and is no longer firmly attached, you may choose to remove it. Use clean scissors sterilized with iodine for this purpose.
Alternative treatments
Alternative treatments can help soothe and manage bullae in different ways.
- Aloe Vera: Putting in aloe vera straight to the bullae can assist reduce pain. Aloe vera is a natural anti-inflammatory, which means it can calm redness and swelling. It’s especially useful for small burns that lead to blisters. For burns larger than 1 inch, it’s best to see your healthcare provider.
- Compression Wrap: Using an elastic bandage such as an ACE bandage can cushion the blister and minimize friction. It’s important not to wrap it too tightly, as this could affect circulation.
- Pain Relief Treatments: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can be taken to ease the discomfort caused by bullae.
- Wet Tea Bags: While there isn’t scientific evidence that wet black or green tea bags effectively treat blisters, some people find them soothing.
These alternative treatments can provide relief and aid in the healing process of bullae, but it’s essential to use them cautiously and seek medical advice if needed, especially for larger or more severe blisters.
Complications
Complications can arise from bullae, though they are usually straightforward to treat and often resolve on their own, especially when not caused by an underlying skin condition or illness. However, there are instances where complications may occur.
When bullae are open or have been drained, there is a risk of infection. This risk is heightened in individuals with nerve impairment, as they may not feel or notice the early signs of infection developing.
Certain medical conditions can also increase the susceptibility to infections from bullae. These conditions involve diabetes, HIV, heart failure, or other autoimmune disorders, as well as venous ulcers. Managing bullae carefully in individuals with these conditions is crucial to prevent complications and ensure proper healing.
Causes
Bullae can stem from a variety of factors, both environmental and medical, making them a common occurrence.
Friction is a leading cause of bullae formation. This type of blister typically develops from repetitive rubbing, such as using tools or from footwear friction.
Contact dermatitis is another significant cause. This condition arises when the skin reacts to irritants like cosmetics, latex, or poison ivy, leading to allergic reactions that manifest as bullae.
Certain viral infections can also trigger bullae. For instance, shingles, caused by a virus, often presents bullae as a painful symptom. These blisters appear in a distinct pattern along a stripe on the neck, face, or torso, and are prone to breaking easily. Similarly, chickenpox, another viral infection, can produce bullae, aiding healthcare providers in diagnosing these conditions based on blister appearance.
Prevention
To prevent friction-induced bullae, consider using bandages or safe coverings over areas prone to irritation. For instance, wearing gloves can shield your hands during activities that involve repetitive movements.
For athletes, protecting feet with specially designed socks that offer extra padding in blister-prone areas can be effective. Adding materials like moleskin inside shoes can also reduce friction. Moisture-absorbing socks help keep feet dry, reducing the likelihood of blisters.
Sunburn can also cause bullae, so wearing sunscreen and covering exposed skin with long-sleeved clothing helps prevent this type of blistering.
Vaccinations are there to prevent illnesses like shingles and chickenpox, which can lead to bullae. Medicines are also accessible to manage symptoms and reduce the occurrence of blisters during herpes outbreaks.
These proactive steps can significantly decrease the chance of developing bullae and blisters, promoting skin health and comfort in various activities and environments.
Outlook
Bullae usually heal by themselves within about a week. To help them heal well and avoid infection, keep the affected area dry, clean, and covered with fresh bandages. This protects them from getting irritated or accidentally popped.
If your bullae or blisters look infected, feel painful, or if you have a fever, it’s important to see a healthcare provider. You might require antibiotics or other medications to help them heal properly. Also, if the bullae infects or doesn’t improve with time, it’s best to get medical advice.
If you suspect your bullae are caused by an illness, your healthcare provider can suggest medications to ease your symptoms and help them heal faster. It’s always a good idea to consult with your doctor for the best advice and treatment.
Summary
Bullae are fluid-contained blisters that often heal on their own within a week but can lead to complications if infected. They can be caused by friction, contact dermatitis, or viral infections like shingles and chickenpox. Preventive measures include using protective coverings, sunscreen, and vaccinations.
Treatment involves keeping the area clean, dry, and covered with bandages. Medical attention is crucial if bullae show signs of infection, pain, or fever, as antibiotics may be necessary. Consulting a doctor is advised for proper diagnosis and management, especially for conditions like diabetes or immune disorders.
