Transformation of an Infected Blister
I am a 24-year-old female currently taking fexofenadine hydrochloride and recently completed a treatment with Clarithromycin due to a previous allergy to penicillin. After suffering a bite from what I believe was a horsefly or a similar insect, I developed an infected blister. I sought medical help and was prescribed Clarithromycin, which I took as directed. By the fifth day of the antibiotic treatment, the blister appeared to shrink and no longer had a yellowish tint. It has since ceased to be warm to the touch, and the pain or itch associated with it has subsided considerably. That said, I’ve noticed that a firm layer has formed underneath where the blister used to be — it feels similar to the texture of a fingernail and has taken on a wrinkled appearance. Is this state typical following an infected blister, or should I consider having it evaluated by a healthcare professional? I appreciate your advice!
Answers (1)

7/20/2025, 7:01:38 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you’ve been doing a great job managing your infected blister, and it's encouraging to hear that your symptoms have improved. What you’re describing — a firm, wrinkled layer forming under where the blister was — can be a normal part of the healing process, as the body starts to repair the damaged skin.
Explanation
After an infection, the skin may rebuild itself in various ways, and the appearance of a firm layer can indicate that new skin is forming. The texture might feel different because the skin underneath needs time to mature. It's essential to distinguish between typical healing and signs that require further attention.
Next Steps
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep an eye on the area for any changes. If the firmness increases significantly, or if you notice any signs of renewed infection (like warmth, increased redness, swelling, or discharge), that would be a reason to seek further evaluation.
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Self-Care: Continue to keep the area clean and dry. If you haven't already, consider applying a gentle moisturizer to support the healing process, ensuring that it’s suitable for sensitive skin.
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Evaluate Progress: Give it some time to heal, typically a few more days to a week. If the textured area persists without signs of improvement, or if you have any concerns about healing, it would be wise to consult a healthcare professional for peace of mind.
You're doing well, and it's important to listen to your body. If you have any other questions or concerns as you go through this healing phase, feel free to ask!
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