Blisters 101
Self-control + sanitary conditions
Question: What do spider bites, sunburns, chicken pox and tight shoes have in common?
Answer: They can all lead to blisters.
While blisters may begin as small, bothersome bubbles that form under the skin and fill with fluid, they can lead to infected areas needing medical attention. To help blisters heal quickly and without further issues, follow these guidelines:
1. Don’t pop it
That billowing booboo may call to you like a plump pimple, but white-knuckle-grip your self-control and don’t pop that blister. Picking, popping and probing blisters increases the chances of introducing bacteria to the wound, which can lead to festering infections.
2. Keep it clean
To keep bacteria at bay, wash the sore area with warm water and mild soap, then apply an antibacterial cream. Top it off with a fresh bandage or gauze, then give that blister time to
heal. Most blisters heal naturally within one to two weeks.
3. Know when to see a doctor
Generally, blisters don’t require a doctor’s expertise, but if a blister oozes with green or yellow pus, feels hot to the touch, or becomes more painful to the touch over the course of a few days, it may be infected. Don’t ignore an infected blister. A doctor can determine if your infection needs antibiotics for healing.
4. Change shoes/equipment
Blisters most often pop up due to excessive friction and pressure. So, stop the heavy, rubbing irritation that caused the blister in the first place. Sometimes that’s as simple as changing shoes, other times it means putting down the hand tools or baseball bat for a few days.
Are blisters preventable?
Research confirms that friction blisters form most easily on thick, stiff skin (like the soles of the feet) versus thinner skin. That’s why avid hikers, marathon runners and other athletes eagerly try all kinds of potential prevention tricks and tips to avoid blister pain.
“When it comes to blisters on the feet, I get asked about taping, specialty socks, foot powders, bandages and buying expensive shoes,” said Sierra Giesey, APRN-CNP. “I can’t guarantee any of those treatments will prevent the development of blisters. However, it may reduce the risk. I recommend finding out what works best on your skin through trial and error.”
Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.
To help blisters heal quickly and without further issues, follow these guidelines.
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Four ways to give your brain a workout
The word crossword might conjure up an image of a grandfather sitting around the kitchen table with a cup of joe, a newspaper and a pencil. Does that crossword help keep his mind sharp? Well, that’s still up for debate. Although study results have been mixed, most researchers agree that our brain needs exercise like our body. Brain games can’t hurt us, and they’re less smelly than going to the gym. Here are five ways to give your brain a workout:
1. Keep learning new skills
Whether it’s a new type of brain game or learning how to quilt, the Synapse Project study published in Psychological Science found that learning new skills helped the memory of older adults.
2. Play around with number puzzles
A study published in 2019 in the International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry found that number puzzles can help with things like attention, reasoning and memory, even in adults with dementia.
3. Try complex and challenging things – and keep practicing
According to Harvard Health, a complicated puzzle or challenging brain game fits the bill. You can also take a challenge you already enjoy and turn it up a notch. If you are a golfer, take a swing at a more challenging course. Knitter? Stitch a new pattern. Studies show these challenges will sharpen your thinking.
4. Tackle that word puzzle
According to the online PROTECT study published in the International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry in 2018, older folks who completed a word puzzle a day showed better cognitive skills than those who did not often do puzzles.
5. Experiment with brain teasers – and involve your children
Brain games are not just for the elderly. A recent study published in the International Journal of Environmental and Science Education found that brain teasers can even help young kids increase their attention span.
You don’t need fancy gadgets or the latest app to keep your mind sharp. Weave some new and challenging puzzles, brain games and crosswords into your day-to-day life, and you might notice your memory or thinking skills improve. At the very least, you had some fun.
You don’t need fancy gadgets or the latest app to keep your mind sharp. Here are five ways to give your brain a workout.
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Exercise your mind by reading
Taking care of your physical health is important, but so is caring for your brain. So, give your body a rest and work out your mind tonight. Lift a few words, run through paragraphs and stretch your way through a chapter. Reading can benefit your health in multiple ways.
Want to learn more? Take our quiz and start your workout without the smelly gym clothes.
Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.
Taking care of your physical health is important, but so is caring for your brain. Reading can benefit your health in multiple ways.
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The perfect cup of tea
Preparing the perfect cup of tea can take practice. Especially because there are so many types of tea and ways to prepare it. Follow the steps below and enjoy.
Green Tea – Add a tea bag or leaves just as the water begins to boil. Steep for 3 minutes uncovered. Don’t add anything for a refreshing tea flavor.
Black Tea – Add a tea bag or leaves when the water arrives at a full boil. Steep for 5 minutes covered. Add a little honey, milk or lemon to taste.
Oolong Tea – Add a tea bag or leaves when the water arrives at a full boil. Steep for 3 minutes covered. Oolong is the perfect tea for adding a citrus flavor like lemon or orange.
White Tea – Add a tea bag or leaves when the water is just under a boil. Steep for 2 minutes uncovered. White tea is best when enjoyed plain. The addition of milk, sugar, lemon or any spice is disruptive to its delicate tea flavor.
Herbal Tea – Add a tea bag or leaves when the water arrives at a full boil. Herbal tea can steep forever unless it contains a tea listed above. Enjoy plain. Adding a little honey for root herbal teas can improve the taste but will add calories.
Tips: Use bottled, freshly drawn filtered water. If you use tap water, let it run for 10 seconds before use for fresher taste. Use one tea bag or one level teaspoon of loose tea per serving. Once the tea is ready, remove the bag or leaves to avoid excessive brewing that would cause a bitter taste.
Preparing the perfect cup of tea can take practice. Especially because there are so many types of tea and ways to prepare it.
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The easiest way to show your vaccination records
Are you thinking about flying to your next vacation destination? Maybe you’re ready to go to a concert? As COVID-19 continues, many social situations require proof of a vaccine to participate.
With the MyChart app on your phone, you have quick access to your vaccination records, which takes away the risk of being denied access to an event or venue because you lost your vaccine card. MyChart even provides a QR code that you can download to prove your vaccination status without logging into the app.
To find your status within MyChart, log into the MyChart app, click “Menu,” and look for the COVID-19 virus icon.
MyChart signup
It’s quick and free to sign up for MyChart. In addition to using it to show your vaccination status, you can view test results, have a video visit with your provider, request medication refills and much more.
To get started today:
- Download the MyChart App from the Apple App Store or Google Play or go to mychart.genesishcs.org
- Click on “New user activation” and follow the easy instructions
Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.
As COVID-19 continues, many social situations require proof of a vaccine to participate.
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Firepit safety
In the summer and fall, it is fun to have cookouts and make s’mores by a firepit.
Plus, the outdoors is a great place to hang out with friends and family.
What we never want to hear or think about is an accident happening with fire. It could happen to anyone, and we want to ensure everyone is safe while having fun.
To prevent a fire-related accident, the U.S. Fire Administration recommends the following tips for practicing fire safety outdoors:
Use chimneys, outdoor fireplaces and firepits at least 10 feet away from your home or anything that can burn.
Watch children closely when a firepit is in use.
Use a metal screen over wood-burning fires to keep sparks from floating out.
Put out fires before you go inside.
Keep matches and lighters out of children’s sight and reach.
The Chimney Safety Institute of America recommends putting out a fire by slowly moving your hose in a zigzag pattern. After wetting the firepit down, take a shovel and move around the wet embers so the water can soak in. Remember to extinguish the fire before going to bed or anytime you leave the fire unattended.
If there happens to be an accident and someone gets burned, immediately tend to that person. The American Red Cross advises removing any clothing or jewelry not stuck to the burn site, then cooling the burn as soon as possible with clean, cool or lukewarm water for 20 minutes, then leaving the burn uncovered.
If emergency medical service is called and delayed or transport is needed, cover the burn loosely with a clean, sterile dressing or plastic wrap if necessary. You should not use ice or ice water to help with a burn, as ice can cause more damage to the skin.
Some of us often hear the expression, “it’s not if, it’s when,” and we always want to be prepared. These tips are a precaution to prevent an accident from happening and ways to treat a burn until medical help arrives.
Call 911 if the accident is severe and you aren’t able to safely transport the victim to the hospital.
Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.
To prevent a fire-related accident, the U.S. Fire Administration recommends the following tips for practicing fire safety outdoors.
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Exercises to combat chronic disease
Having a chronic disease can be a challenge. You may need to take medication or avoid certain foods and activities. However, chronic diseases don’t have to control your life. You can frequently slow the progression of a chronic disease and its effects by developing a wellness plan, which often involves exercise.
We know we often recommend exercise. However, there are several good reasons. Countless studies have shown regular exercise can help you in numerous ways.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states exercise can help:
Improve memory and the ability to work through problems.
Control weight.
Strengthen bones and muscles.
Make normal activities easier by increasing stamina, balance and flexibility.
Improve mental health by reducing stress.
Reduce the risk of certain diseases.
Improve sleep.
Even better, you will start to feel some benefits, like stress relief and improved sleep, soon after beginning to exercise.
With so many types of exercise, you should be able to find something you enjoy and is either free or low-cost.
If you are not sure where to start, the National Council on Aging recommends the following exercises for combating diabetes. However, these exercises are also great for people with several other chronic diseases. You can try:
Walking
Dancing
Yoga
Weight training
Tai chi
Swimming
The common factor in these activities is that they will get you up and moving. Most combine moderate muscle-building along with balance and flexibility.
Just as important as exercising is not overdoing it, especially if you’re just starting and have a chronic disease. Before beginning any exercise program, you should consult with your doctor for tips on which exercises you should try, how long you should exercise and other necessary precautions to take.
Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.
We know we often recommend exercise. However, there are several good reasons.
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Summer fruit salad
Ingredients:
- 3 cups spring mix lettuce
- 2 ½ cups pecans, coarsely chopped
- 2 or 3 fresh shallots, minced
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon red wine vinegar
- 2 teaspoons red wine
- ¼ cup dried apricots
- ¼ cup fresh red raspberries
- ¼ cup fresh blueberries
- ¼ cup blue cheese, crumbled
Make the chipotle-candied pecans
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup water
- 2 ½ cups pecan pieces
- 1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/8 teaspoon chili powder
Preheat oven to 375° F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a small saucepan on the stovetop, combine sugar and water. Bring to a boil, whisking to dissolve the sugar.
Remove from the heat, stir in the pecans and toss to coat. Spread the nuts on a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Toast in the oven for about 8-10 minutes, or until toasty.
While still warm, sprinkle the nuts with a mixture of cinnamon and chili powder.
Set aside to cool completely. Once cool, you can store the candied nuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a month.
Make the dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the minced shallots, sugar, red wine vinegar and red wine.
Heat the saucepan to low heat and add the mixture. Cook for 5 minutes or until shallots are tender.
The minimum internal temperature should be 140 degrees F. or above.
Cool quickly to an internal temperature of 40 degrees F. or below.
Store in an airtight jar in the refrigerator at 40 degrees F. or below for up to 1 week.
Assemble the salad
Put the lettuce in a stainless-steel serving bowl.
Add the blue cheese, raspberries and blueberries.
Top with candied pecans and apricots.
Just before serving, drizzle the dressing over the salad, to taste.
Nutritional information:
- Serving size: 1 salad (about 3 cups)
- Calories per serving: 300
- Total Fat: 15 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg
- Sodium: 230 mg
- Carbohydrates: 13 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Sugar: 17 g
- Protein: 3 g
Approved by:
Clay Simmons
Executive Chef
Genesis Food and Nutrition Services
Find more recipes at genesishcs.org/eatwell.
This colorful and nutritious summer salad recipe features candied pecans, apricots, berries, and blue cheese on top of fresh lettuce.
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Safely savor summer foods
A lot of people enjoy outdoor barbecues in the summer. From grilled chicken to s’mores, we can cook many things outside while enjoying the nice weather. However, we want to be safe from fires and ensure our food is fully cooked.
Check the temperature
Thermometers are not just for people who are sick or have a fever. They can be used for food, too, especially meat. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) color is never reliable to ensure your food is thoroughly cooked. Using a food thermometer ensures fully cooked food. This includes frozen food with labels such as “cook and serve,” “ready to cook” and “oven ready.” Below is a list of grilled foods that need to be cooked to a specific temperature to ensure they are safe to eat.
- Cook poultry (whole or ground) to 165 F.
- Cook beef, pork, lamb and veal steaks, chops and roasts to 145 F.
- Cook ground beef, pork, lamb and veal to 160 F.
- Cook egg dishes to 160 F.
- Cook fish to 145 F.
- For safety and quality, allow meat to rest for at least three minutes before carving or consuming.
One-hour rule
Most of us have heard of the five-second rule. What does the one-hour rule mean when it comes to food? The one-hour rule is when the temperature outside rises to 90 F or higher. According to the USDA, foods such as meat, poultry, dips, cold salads or cut fruits or vegetables are safe to sit at the table for an hour. After an hour, harmful bacteria may start to grow, which can lead to foodborne illnesses.
Remember to keep your cold foods cold and hot foods hot so you and your family can enjoy many backyard barbecues this summer.
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Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.
We can cook many things outside while enjoying summer weather. Remember these food temperature tips so your family can enjoy many backyard barbecues.
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Shoes matter
Ask the princess with the glass slipper
The sun is out, and the sand stretches to endless water. It’s going to be a great day if you can keep from scratching your foot on a rock, getting the tops of your feet burned, stepping on a bee while barefoot or twisting an ankle while running in flip-flops.
Those perfect summer days with no worries are rare. Make sure you get the most out of them with appropriate footwear.
We know that part of summer fun is letting your toes escape their winter prison of socks and closed-toe shoes. An increase in activities over the summer months, especially after an inactive winter, can lead to multiple foot concerns. With a little planning, you can still let your piggies out and go home safe.
Make the right choice
When it comes to summer, a lot of us want the sleekest slides and hassle-free flip-flops. However, when buying summer shoes with minimal coverage, you should pick the proper footwear for the right occasion.
To keep joints and feet healthy, it’s best to give them a cushion. Our providers at Genesis Foot & Ankle recommend wearing sandals that fit the shape of your feet. Without supportive sandals, stress fractures are more common.
Straps and traction keep shoes on your feet and prevent tumbling on slick surfaces. Genesis Foot & Ankle says stretching the Achilles tendon can also reduce foot pressures and the chances of injury.
Fancy glass slippers that match the perfect sundress also have drawbacks. An increase in heel height can lead to greater instability, leading to injury.
Flip flops can be a good choice around pools, in public showers and even hotels where problems like plantar warts, athlete’s foot, ringworm and other infections want to hitch a free ride on your feet.
Trust us, these are not the vacation souvenirs you want to take home. If you are going to be active, consider more substantial footwear to eliminate the risk of the sole bending under itself or slipping off and causing you to fall.
A moment in the sun
After your feet have wintered in heavy socks and snuggly boots, letting them bask in the sun often feels good. However, as your feet usually get minimal exposure to the sun, it makes them easy to burn.
Be sure to cover the tops of your feet and ankles, along with other exposed skin, with the appropriate sunscreen. Reapply after being in the water.
Put your feet up and rest
A few simple tips can help keep your feet healthy. Enjoy the carefree days this summer with the right shoes. Your feet will appreciate the royal treatment.
Ready to get healthy?
Sign up for our digital newsletters to receive health tips, recipes, success stories for inspiration and information about new doctors to help you on your journey to better health.
Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.
Those perfect summer days with no worries are rare. Make sure you get the most out of them with the proper footwear.
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