Health Tips for November 24

Health Tip: Take Care of a Blister

Blisters are fluid-filled sacs on the skin that can be caused by friction from clothing or shoes, burns, or certain disorders and conditions.

The University of Virginia Health System offers these suggestions for how to take care of a blister and prevent infection:

• Gently wash the blister with soap and water.
• Apply an ice pack to reduce pain and swelling.
• Never burst or puncture the blister.
• If the blister bursts on its own, cover it with a bandage or dressing to keep it clean and dry.
• Check the blister frequently for signs of infection, which could include warmth, redness, swelling, drainage, pus or pain. If you have any of these signs, contact your doctor without delay.

Health Tip: Keep Kidney Infections at Bay

Kidney infections are usually the result of a more common urinary tract infection that makes its way to a kidney.

You're at greater risk of contracting a kidney infection if you have a history of conditions including cystitis or kidney stones.

Your risk is also greater if you've had chronic or recurring urinary tract infections, and when the infection is caused by aggressive strains of bacteria.

Here are ways to help reduce your risk of a kidney infection, courtesy of the U.S. National Library of Medicine:

• If you have a urinary tract infection, see your doctor and treat it promptly with antibiotics.
• After urinating, wipe from front to back to reduce the chances of rectal bacteria entering the urethra.
• Try to urinate right after sexual intercourse.
• Don't wait too long to use the bathroom.
• Drink plenty of fluids -- between 64 ounces and 128 ounces per day.
• Drink cranberry juice, as it can help control some bacteria that can cause an infection.