Cold hands and blisters

[josko]

I was out in Boston harbor this Sunday (11/3) in some lively conditions, and after return, noticed I had a whopper of a blood blister on one of my fingers. It wasn't that long a paddle, but it WAS cold (snowed a bit at put-in). I now wonder if cold and numb hands are more susceptible to blisters. I really never noticed it on the water or felt any discomfort and was really surprised to see it when we sat down to a post-paddle snack in Winthrop.

Is there any connection between cold, numb hands and propensity to blistering?

[gyork]

.... wonder if cold and numb hands are more susceptible to blisters.

I suspect indirectly; as one loses tactile sensation, one is apt to be unaware of an irritant rubbing away on skin surfaces, or a "pinch" causing a blood blister.

[rfolster]

Without any medical background, I dare say that I don't think that a mere "rubbing" can cause a blood blister, usually just the clear kind. Blood blisters are typically equated with a pinching event as Gary mentioned. I have had my fair share of both.

[Phil Allen]

gloves, pogies or bare hands?

[josko]

Bare hands. Guess they were number (dumber???) than I thought 'cause I was completely unaware of the blood blister until well after the paddle.

[Phil Allen]

I find I get more blisters under my callouss using gloves and pogies as the skin has less opportunity to dry out. Doesn't sound like that was your problem though. Might have been an un-noticed pinch.

best

Phil