Itching blisters on feet

[randolph777]

I occasionally get itching spots on my feet and ankles that look and feel like chigger bites. They soon develop into clear blisters ranging up to 1/4" that look and itch just like poison oak or ivy-sometimes I don't notice them until they have developed into blisters. They come in the summer-just like chiggers. A dermatologist told me they are none of these:he named it, but I didn't understand him. When I asked for clarification, he said not to worry about it-just come in when it happened again!!!

I treat them by letting them go for a few days (hoping they will quit or reduce fluid production), then cut the top off them and treat them as an open sore.

Any information you can give-possible name especially-prevention, treatment, etc. will be appreciated.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
For pompholyx, apply some calamine lotion on the affected area and keep the area well moisturized. Use only thin applications of moisturizer ointments as excessive amounts of ointment may restrict breathing of the skin and aggravate the condition.

Topical steroids can be applied but they are available under prescription. Moreover to prevent infection, topical antibiotics may be needed. I suggest you to consult a dermatologist and get it evaluated.

I hope that helps. Take care and regards.

[randolph777]

Thank you for replying. I am "certain" it is pompholyx, as it is too random for the other two-I barely go barefoot in the house, much less outside!!!

At least I have a name for it.

Since it is just an inconvenience-sometimes extremely so-, I plan to continue with the same treatment. I really appreciate you replying; as I said "at least I have a name for it", and apparently it isn't something really serious.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
These itchy blisters can be due to contact dermatitis, insect bites or pompholyx. Wash the areas several times with fresh water. Do not use any cosmetic products at the sites. You can apply some calamine lotion at the rash as it will help in soothing the skin. Also wear cotton clothes and take some antihistaminic like Benadryl. If the symptoms are severe then it will be best to consult a dermatologist.

It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your doctor. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.