Vesicles are described as small sacs filled with fluid on the skin. The fluid within these sacs might be clear, white, yellowish or mixed with blood. The vesicles are around 5-10 millimeters in diameter.
What are the causes?
The vesicles form if fluid is trapped beneath the epidermis. Various conditions can cause these sacs.
The minor causes of vesicles include:
- Dermatitis or eczema
- Allergic reactions that trigger skin irritation
- Cold sores
Most form on the skin surface and cause it to enlarge with fluid. The skin around the vesicle contains the fluid. - Contact dermatitis
A doctor should be consulted if the vesicles are due to the following:
- Chickenpox or shingles
- Autoimmune disorders such as bullous pemphigoid
- Herpes
- Skin conditions that result to blisters
- Impetigo
What are the signs?
The vesicles are easy to identify. Most form on the skin surface and cause it to enlarge with fluid. The skin around the vesicle contains the fluid.
The vesicles might easily rupture and release the fluid onto the surface of the skin. Once it dries, it turns yellow or crusty.
If a rash form in the same place as several vesicles, it is called as a vesicular rash. The rash can quickly spread. In case of a bacterial infection, it is vital to keep the rash clean to prevent its spread to other body parts.
Management of vesicles
A doctor must be consulted regarding the appropriate treatment. The treatment is usually based on the root cause. Over-the-counter remedies might be sufficient to manage the vesicles from an allergic reaction, cold sores or dermatitis.
Most of the remedies are topical ointments that soothe the skin. Antihistamines can also help lessen the allergy-related symptoms.
Take note that the vesicles might be accompanied by other serious symptoms such as infection or inflammation. In such cases, the doctor might prescribe drugs to deal with the underlying causes.