Yes, blood blisters can get bigger.
Blood blisters, which are typically caused by trauma, can increase in size over time, especially if the underlying irritation or pressure continues.
How Blood Blisters Grow
Generally, a blood blister forms when blood vessels near the skin's surface are damaged and leak fluid and blood into the space between the skin layers. Here's what can make them bigger:
- Continued Pressure or Friction: If the activity that caused the blister initially continues, the blister can get bigger. For example, if your shoe keeps rubbing against a spot on your foot, the blister may grow due to continued damage to the blood vessels.
- Initial Reaction: The initial inflammation and fluid accumulation after damage can cause a small blood blister to appear, and subsequently expand as more fluid builds up in the damaged area.
- Underlying Conditions: In rare instances, a growing blood blister can be a symptom of a more serious condition, such as pyoderma gangrenosum. According to provided references, this condition can start as a small bump, spot or blood blister that "gets bigger quickly and turns into an ulcer."
What to Do
Here are some practical things to keep in mind:
- Protection: Protect the blister area from further irritation with a bandage or padding.
- Avoid Popping: Don't pop blood blisters, as that can increase risk of infection.
- Rest: Give the area some rest, and reduce friction.
- Monitor: If the blister grows significantly, is extremely painful, or shows signs of infection, see a doctor.
While most blood blisters can be managed at home with basic care, it's important to understand the factors that contribute to their growth and know when to seek medical attention.
