Why Do Blisters Appear After Eating Fried Foods? Infection Risks Explained

Developing blisters after eating fried foods: Is it due to consuming contaminated food or something else?

The blister was originally the size of a grain of rice, but I wanted to pop it to let the blood out.
Unexpectedly, it suddenly grew to the size of a coin without being broken.
After I finally popped it, there was a layer of skin underneath.
Now the wound looks a bit like a canker sore, with slight redness and swelling, and it is very painful with a sharp stinging sensation.
Could this be a bacterial infection?

Gang, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/01/18

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry

Blisters in the oral cavity are generally caused by friction or irritation of the mucous membrane, or by the constant rubbing of the edges of teeth against the oral mucosa.
Typically, once a blister ruptures and forms a mucosal lesion, it will gradually heal.
However, if a secondary infection occurs, the blister may enlarge.
Once a large blister bursts, it can create a wound similar to an oral ulcer.
At this point, it is important to maintain oral hygiene to prevent infection of the wound and allow for natural healing.

Reply Date: 2018/01/18

More Info

Blisters can appear for various reasons, especially after consuming fried foods, and understanding the underlying mechanisms can help clarify the situation. When you eat fried foods, particularly those that are hot or greasy, they can cause irritation or burns in the mouth or on the skin if they come into contact with sensitive areas. This irritation can lead to the formation of blisters as a protective response from the body.
In your case, it seems that you initially had a small blister, which then enlarged after you attempted to manipulate it. This is a common occurrence; blisters can grow larger if they are disturbed or if the skin around them is irritated. When you mentioned that the blister had a layer of skin that looked white and red, it indicates that the blister may have been damaged, exposing the underlying tissue. This can lead to pain and sensitivity, as the area is now more vulnerable to infection.

Regarding the risk of bacterial infection, it is essential to monitor the blister closely. If the blister has been broken, the risk of infection increases, especially if bacteria from the skin or environment enter the wound. Signs of infection include increased redness, swelling, warmth, pus or drainage, and worsening pain. If you notice any of these symptoms, it is advisable to seek medical attention.

To prevent infection, keep the area clean and covered with a sterile bandage. Avoid picking at the blister or the surrounding skin, as this can introduce bacteria. If you experience severe pain, fever, or any signs of systemic infection, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional promptly.

In summary, blisters can form due to irritation from fried foods, and manipulating them can lead to increased size and potential infection. Proper care and monitoring are essential to prevent complications. If you have concerns about infection or if the blister does not improve, seeking medical advice is the best course of action.

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