What is the treatment for blisters on the feet after a vacation?

Question

Hi doctor,

I am a 68-year-old woman. I take medication for high blood pressure, thyroid, cholesterol, and type 2 diabetes (Metformin and Onglyza). I go on vacation several times a year. For the past few years, no matter where I go, I get horrible blisters on my feet, especially on my toes, as soon as I return home.

I always use SPF lotion when I go to the beach. Nothing happens while I am on vacation. It is quite painful, like a major burn, when I came back from vacation. It starts with one blister, then as the days progress, they keep coming out.

It takes about three weeks for them to clear. The most recent events were recently. We just got back from the beach a week ago, and the toes on my left foot are covered in blisters. I do not know if it is caused by the sun, the sand, the ocean water, or maybe a reaction to the medicine I take. I am baffled. Can you help me?

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hi,

I am glad you chose iCliniq for your medical-related queries.

I understand your concern and will try to help you with it.

Having blisters like these is very common in diabetics. It occurs because of a skin reaction to various environmental factors. It is a delayed form of hypersensitivity reaction to multiple agents. You may be allergic to the beach water, sand, or the aquatic flora there. When did you last check your sugar levels?

Please make sure that it is very important to keep your blood sugar levels within the normal range to avoid blisters and these reactions. Next time you have one, please get it checked by a dermatologist, as the culture of the sample would tell us what exactly we are dealing with.

Thank you for consulting me.

You can always come back and reach me at icliniq.com.

Thank you.