WOW!What a fantastic response. Thank you all so much for your guidance and information, I really didn't expect much, but I'm now quite emotional and feel very blessed to think that all you complete strangers bothered to answer! At this point I have concluded that the Herpes simplex virus has got something to do with the blisters. Unfortunately both my wife and son have cough/colds at the moment and there is every chance I may have a virus of some kind, although I feel quite well. It's winter in Australia, not that we have much of a winter, and everybody seems to be coughing and spluttering. I am going to see my GP tomorrow so I will ask him about the blisters/virus.
I was interested in your comments about gaining weight as I had already decided to ask the GP whether I should start weight training and walking or whether it would burn too many calories? My other concern at the moment is SWOLLEN FEET. I'd be interested to get your views on probable causes/treatments.