Ingrown wart on toe. Plantar Warts: Symptoms, Causes, and Effective Treatment Options
What are plantar warts. How are plantar warts caused. What are the symptoms of plantar warts. How can plantar warts be treated effectively. When should you see a doctor for plantar warts. How long does plantar wart treatment typically take. How can you prevent plantar warts.
Understanding Plantar Warts: A Common Foot Condition
Plantar warts, also known as verrucas, are a prevalent foot condition that affects many individuals, particularly children. These warts occur on the bottom of the feet and are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). While some plantar warts may resolve on their own, others require treatment to eliminate them effectively.
What exactly are plantar warts?
Plantar warts are growths that appear on the soles of the feet. They are the result of an HPV infection that causes an excess buildup of keratin, a protein found in the skin. These warts can appear anywhere on the foot but are most commonly found on the underside of the toes or the heel.
How do plantar warts differ from other types of warts?
Unlike warts that appear on other parts of the body, plantar warts are unique in their location and appearance. They often grow inward due to the pressure of walking and standing, which can cause them to be mistaken for calluses. However, a healthcare professional can help distinguish between a plantar wart and a callus.
The Viral Culprit: Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and Plantar Warts
Understanding the cause of plantar warts is crucial for both prevention and treatment. The human papillomavirus (HPV) is the primary culprit behind these persistent foot growths.
How does HPV cause plantar warts?
HPV enters the body through small cuts or breaks in the skin of the feet. Once inside, the virus causes an overgrowth of cells, resulting in the formation of a wart. The virus thrives in warm, moist environments, making places like locker room floors and pool areas ideal breeding grounds for HPV.
Are certain individuals more susceptible to plantar warts?
While anyone can develop plantar warts, some people are more susceptible than others. Those with weakened immune systems may be at a higher risk of developing these warts. Additionally, individuals who frequently walk barefoot in public areas or have cracks or cuts on their feet are more likely to contract the virus.
Recognizing the Signs: Symptoms of Plantar Warts
Identifying plantar warts early can lead to more effective treatment. Being aware of the symptoms is the first step in addressing this foot condition.
What are the most common symptoms of plantar warts?
- Pain or tenderness when walking or applying pressure to the affected area
- Thickened skin on the bottom of the foot
- Small black dots (dried blood in capillaries) visible within the wart
- White or skin-colored lesions on the sole of the foot
It’s important to note that plantar warts can sometimes be mistaken for calluses due to their inward growth. If you’re unsure whether you have a plantar wart or a callus, consulting a healthcare professional is advisable.
Treatment Options: From Home Remedies to Medical Interventions
Treating plantar warts can be a process that requires patience and persistence. There are several treatment options available, ranging from over-the-counter remedies to medical procedures.
What are the most effective home treatments for plantar warts?
One of the most common and accessible home treatments for plantar warts is salicylic acid. This compound works by gradually “burning” off the wart and is available in various forms such as liquids, creams, sticks, or cotton pads. When using salicylic acid:
- Follow the instructions on the packaging carefully
- Apply the treatment consistently for approximately 12 weeks
- Be patient, as results may take time to become noticeable
What medical treatments are available for stubborn plantar warts?
For warts that don’t respond to home treatments or are particularly deep or large, medical interventions may be necessary. These can include:
- Cryotherapy: “Freezing” the wart with liquid nitrogen
- Curettage: Surgically removing the wart
- Topical medications: Prescription-strength treatments applied directly to the wart
- Laser therapy: Using targeted light to destroy the blood vessels feeding the wart
It’s worth noting that a 2019 review found that salicylic acid treatment was just as effective as cryotherapy for treating plantar warts. However, the choice of treatment often depends on the individual case and should be discussed with a healthcare provider.
When to Seek Professional Help: Consulting a Doctor for Plantar Warts
While many plantar warts can be treated at home, there are situations where professional medical advice is necessary. Knowing when to consult a doctor can lead to more effective treatment and prevent complications.
In which cases should you see a doctor for plantar warts?
You should consider seeing a doctor if:
- The wart is causing significant pain
- The wart is spreading to other areas of your foot
- You’re unsure if the growth is a wart or another skin condition
- You have diabetes or a weakened immune system
- Home treatments have been ineffective after several weeks
- The wart has returned after previous treatment
A healthcare professional can provide a definitive diagnosis and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan based on the size, location, and persistence of your plantar wart.
The Treatment Journey: What to Expect When Treating Plantar Warts
Treating plantar warts is often a process that requires time and patience. Understanding what to expect can help you stay committed to your treatment plan and achieve the best possible outcome.
How long does plantar wart treatment typically take?
The duration of plantar wart treatment can vary depending on the method used and the individual case. Here’s a general timeline for some common treatments:
- Salicylic acid: Approximately 12 weeks of consistent application
- Cryotherapy: Usually requires 2-3 visits to the doctor, spaced several weeks apart
- Laser therapy: May be effective in 1-3 treatments
It’s important to remember that consistency is key when treating plantar warts. Even if the wart appears to be gone, continue the treatment as directed by your healthcare provider to ensure complete eradication and prevent recurrence.
What precautions should you take during and after treatment?
During and after plantar wart treatment, it’s essential to:
- Keep the treated area clean and dry
- Avoid walking barefoot, especially in public areas
- Change your socks daily
- Use separate towels for your feet and the rest of your body
- Avoid picking or scratching the wart
If you’ve had the wart surgically removed, you may need to stay off your foot for about a day and keep the area bandaged. Always follow your doctor’s specific post-treatment instructions.
Prevention Strategies: Keeping Plantar Warts at Bay
While it’s not always possible to prevent plantar warts, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of contracting HPV and developing these troublesome foot growths.
How can you protect yourself from plantar warts?
To minimize your risk of developing plantar warts:
- Wear flip-flops or water shoes in public showers, locker rooms, and around swimming pools
- Keep your feet clean and dry
- Change your socks daily, especially if your feet tend to sweat
- Avoid walking barefoot in public areas
- Don’t share towels, socks, or shoes with others
- Treat any cuts or breaks in the skin on your feet promptly
- Boost your immune system through a healthy diet and lifestyle
By following these preventive measures, you can significantly reduce your chances of contracting HPV and developing plantar warts.
Debunking Myths: Separating Fact from Fiction in Plantar Wart Treatment
There are many home remedies and urban legends surrounding the treatment of plantar warts. It’s important to distinguish between proven methods and potentially harmful myths.
Are there any risks associated with DIY plantar wart treatments?
While the internet is full of suggested home remedies for plantar warts, many of these treatments are unproven and could potentially cause harm. Some risks associated with DIY treatments include:
- Skin irritation or burns from harsh chemicals
- Infection from improper wound care
- Delayed proper treatment, allowing the wart to grow or spread
- Mistaking another skin condition for a plantar wart and treating it incorrectly
It’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional before attempting any treatment, especially if you’re considering methods involving essential oils, vinegar, or other household items. These substances can sometimes cause more harm than good when applied to sensitive skin.
What are some common misconceptions about plantar warts?
There are several myths surrounding plantar warts that can lead to misunderstanding and improper treatment. Here are some common misconceptions:
- Myth: Plantar warts have roots that grow deep into the foot.
Reality: Warts don’t have roots. The black dots often seen in plantar warts are actually small blood vessels. - Myth: Duct tape is an effective treatment for plantar warts.
Reality: While some people claim success with this method, scientific evidence supporting its effectiveness is limited. - Myth: Plantar warts are highly contagious and easily spread from person to person.
Reality: While HPV is contagious, not everyone exposed to the virus will develop warts. The virus typically requires a break in the skin to cause infection. - Myth: Once you’ve had a plantar wart, you’re immune to future infections.
Reality: Having a plantar wart doesn’t provide immunity against future HPV infections or wart development.
Understanding these facts can help you make more informed decisions about plantar wart prevention and treatment.
Living with Plantar Warts: Managing Discomfort and Preventing Spread
While undergoing treatment for plantar warts, it’s important to manage any discomfort and take steps to prevent the warts from spreading to other parts of your body or to other people.
How can you alleviate pain associated with plantar warts?
If your plantar wart is causing pain, there are several strategies you can employ to minimize discomfort:
- Use cushioned insoles or pads to relieve pressure on the wart while walking
- Apply over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen
- Soak your foot in warm water to soften the wart and reduce pain
- Avoid high-impact activities that put excessive pressure on the affected area
- Wear comfortable, well-fitting shoes that don’t rub against the wart
Remember, persistent or severe pain should be evaluated by a healthcare professional, as it may indicate a need for different treatment or could be a sign of another underlying condition.
What steps can you take to prevent plantar warts from spreading?
To minimize the risk of spreading plantar warts to other areas of your body or to other people:
- Avoid touching or scratching the wart
- Wash your hands thoroughly after treating the wart or touching the affected area
- Use a separate pumice stone or nail file for the affected foot and discard it after the wart is gone
- Cover the wart with a waterproof bandage when swimming or using communal showers
- Don’t share personal items like towels, socks, or shoes
- Wear socks to bed if you’re applying medication to the wart overnight
By following these precautions, you can help contain the virus and prevent new warts from developing.
The Future of Plantar Wart Treatment: Emerging Research and Therapies
As medical science advances, new treatments for plantar warts are being developed and studied. Staying informed about these developments can provide hope for those dealing with persistent or recurrent warts.
What new treatments are being researched for plantar warts?
Several innovative approaches to treating plantar warts are currently being explored:
- Immunotherapy: This involves stimulating the body’s immune system to fight the HPV infection causing the wart
- Photodynamic therapy: A light-sensitive drug is applied to the wart and then activated with a specific wavelength of light
- Intralesional injections: Medications are injected directly into the wart to destroy it from within
- Pulsed dye laser treatment: This targets the blood vessels feeding the wart, potentially offering a quicker resolution
While these treatments show promise, more research is needed to determine their long-term effectiveness and safety. Always consult with a healthcare provider to discuss the most current and appropriate treatment options for your specific case.
How might our understanding of HPV impact future plantar wart treatments?
As researchers gain a deeper understanding of HPV and its mechanisms, new targeted therapies may emerge. Some areas of focus include:
- Developing vaccines to prevent HPV strains that cause plantar warts
- Creating topical medications that can directly combat the virus
- Identifying genetic factors that make some individuals more susceptible to plantar warts
- Exploring the use of antiviral compounds to treat HPV infections more effectively
These advancements could lead to more efficient, less invasive treatments for plantar warts in the future, potentially reducing treatment times and improving outcomes for patients.
Plantar Warts in Special Populations: Children, Athletes, and Individuals with Compromised Immunity
Certain groups may be more susceptible to plantar warts or face unique challenges in treatment. Understanding these special considerations can help in providing appropriate care and prevention strategies.
How does plantar wart treatment differ for children?
Children are particularly prone to developing plantar warts due to their active lifestyles and frequent barefoot activities. When treating plantar warts in children:
- Less aggressive treatments are often preferred to minimize discomfort
- Patience is key, as children’s immune systems may eventually clear the warts on their own
- Emphasis on prevention is crucial, especially in shared spaces like swimming pools or locker rooms
- Parental involvement in treatment application and hygiene practices is essential
Parents should consult with a pediatrician or dermatologist to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for their child’s specific case.
What is it, Symptoms, Treatment, and More
Some plantar warts will go away naturally. Others may require at-home or medical treatments, such as applying salicylic acid to “burn” off the wart, or liquid nitrogen to “freeze” off the wart.
Plantar warts are warts that affect the bottom of the feet. They are very common, especially in children.
A plantar wart, sometimes called a verruca, is typically associated with the human papillomavirus (HPV) according to research from 2020. HPV causes a buildup of the protein keratin on the skin, which can result in warts.
HPV thrives in warm, moist places, such as locker room floors and around swimming pools. Those little puddles on the surface of pool tiles are a breeding ground for HPV.
The virus is transmitted by direct contact and may be picked up more easily if you have an opening or crack in your skin.
While plantar warts can appear anywhere on the foot, they appear most often on the bottom of the foot, according to 2019 research. They usually show up on the underside of your toes or your heel.
Occasionally, plantar warts grow inward, below the surface of the skin, and may look like a callus. A healthcare professional can help you determine whether your hard spot is a plantar wart or a callus.
Plantar warts can be painful. One of the first symptoms you may notice is pain or tenderness when putting pressure on your foot while walking.
According to the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons, other symptoms of a plantar wart include:
- thickened skin on the bottom of your foot
- tiny black dots on your foot, which are actually dried blood stuck in the capillaries in and around the wart
- white or skin-colored lesions on the bottom of your foot
In some cases, a plantar wart will resolve naturally. Other cases may require treatment. You can treat a plantar wart a few different ways, either by seeing a doctor or by treating the wart at home.
Treatments include:
- salicylic acid, which can help “burn” off the wart and comes in forms such as a liquid, cream, stick, or embedded on cotton pads
- cryotreatment, which can be used to “freeze” off the wart
- curettage, which involves cutting out the wart
- medication applied directly to the wart
- laser therapy to burn off the blood vessels that feed the wart
Salicylic acid and liquid nitrogen are the most common treatments. Both require multiple treatments over several weeks to get rid of the wart or warts.
Salicylic acid is available over the counter. You can use it at home. Follow the directions on the packaging, and expect to apply the medication for approximately 12 weeks.
One small review from 2019 found that treating a plantar wart with salicylic acid was just as effective as cryotreatment by a doctor.
If your wart is deep or if it returns, you may need to see a doctor. Your doctor may combine different treatments, such as cryotherapy with salicylic acid, for more effective results.
Plantar warts are caused by HPV, which is a group of viruses that can affect your skin.
HPV can cause warts on other parts of your body, but only the warts on your feet are classified as plantar warts.
In individuals with plantar warts, HPV has found a way into the body via a cut or scrape on the skin. People with a weakened immune system may be more susceptible to developing plantar warts.
If you suspect you have a plantar wart, you should check in with a doctor, since it can be hard to tell how much the wart has grown beneath the skin. You should definitely see a doctor if the wart is causing you pain or spreading to another location.
A doctor can help you determine which treatment is best for you based on how advanced the wart is. If the wart has returned, for example, your doctor might choose a different combination treatment to ensure its removal.
Once your doctor has diagnosed your plantar wart, they will recommend removal methods such as salicylic acid or cryotreatment.
It’s important to get a doctor’s advice before trying to remove the wart. Doing so without input from a physician could result in damage to your foot. Never try to remove a plantar wart by cutting it off yourself.
While there are home remedies floating around on the internet that may involve things like essential oils or apple cider vinegar, most of these treatments have not been proven and could end up causing more discomfort.
Most treatments for plantar warts take several weeks. The most important thing to remember when treating a wart is consistency.
Plantar warts can be difficult to eliminate and have a tendency to return, so be sure to follow your treatment plan carefully.
Cryotherapy usually requires two to three trips to the doctor for liquid nitrogen therapy. Laser therapy might work in one to three treatments.
If you’ve had your wart cut off by a doctor, stay off your foot for about a day. Keep the area covered with a bandage, and avoid putting pressure on the wart site.
To help prevent a plantar wart, consider the following tips:
- Always cover your feet in shared community spaces, such as pools, locker rooms, or dorms.
- If you are under 26 years old, ask your doctor about receiving the HPV vaccine. It may help prevent warts, though more research is needed.
- If you have a wart, change your shoes and socks daily.
- Keep the wart covered, and wash your hands frequently to avoid spreading plantar warts to other people.
Plantar warts are common and treatable. There’s no single treatment that’s always effective. You may be able to treat them at home, but more serious cases may require treatment at your doctor’s office.
What is it, Symptoms, Treatment, and More
Some plantar warts will go away naturally. Others may require at-home or medical treatments, such as applying salicylic acid to “burn” off the wart, or liquid nitrogen to “freeze” off the wart.
Plantar warts are warts that affect the bottom of the feet. They are very common, especially in children.
A plantar wart, sometimes called a verruca, is typically associated with the human papillomavirus (HPV) according to research from 2020. HPV causes a buildup of the protein keratin on the skin, which can result in warts.
HPV thrives in warm, moist places, such as locker room floors and around swimming pools. Those little puddles on the surface of pool tiles are a breeding ground for HPV.
The virus is transmitted by direct contact and may be picked up more easily if you have an opening or crack in your skin.
While plantar warts can appear anywhere on the foot, they appear most often on the bottom of the foot, according to 2019 research. They usually show up on the underside of your toes or your heel.
Occasionally, plantar warts grow inward, below the surface of the skin, and may look like a callus. A healthcare professional can help you determine whether your hard spot is a plantar wart or a callus.
Plantar warts can be painful. One of the first symptoms you may notice is pain or tenderness when putting pressure on your foot while walking.
According to the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons, other symptoms of a plantar wart include:
- thickened skin on the bottom of your foot
- tiny black dots on your foot, which are actually dried blood stuck in the capillaries in and around the wart
- white or skin-colored lesions on the bottom of your foot
In some cases, a plantar wart will resolve naturally. Other cases may require treatment. You can treat a plantar wart a few different ways, either by seeing a doctor or by treating the wart at home.
Treatments include:
- salicylic acid, which can help “burn” off the wart and comes in forms such as a liquid, cream, stick, or embedded on cotton pads
- cryotreatment, which can be used to “freeze” off the wart
- curettage, which involves cutting out the wart
- medication applied directly to the wart
- laser therapy to burn off the blood vessels that feed the wart
Salicylic acid and liquid nitrogen are the most common treatments. Both require multiple treatments over several weeks to get rid of the wart or warts.
Salicylic acid is available over the counter. You can use it at home. Follow the directions on the packaging, and expect to apply the medication for approximately 12 weeks.
One small review from 2019 found that treating a plantar wart with salicylic acid was just as effective as cryotreatment by a doctor.
If your wart is deep or if it returns, you may need to see a doctor. Your doctor may combine different treatments, such as cryotherapy with salicylic acid, for more effective results.
Plantar warts are caused by HPV, which is a group of viruses that can affect your skin.
HPV can cause warts on other parts of your body, but only the warts on your feet are classified as plantar warts.
In individuals with plantar warts, HPV has found a way into the body via a cut or scrape on the skin. People with a weakened immune system may be more susceptible to developing plantar warts.
If you suspect you have a plantar wart, you should check in with a doctor, since it can be hard to tell how much the wart has grown beneath the skin. You should definitely see a doctor if the wart is causing you pain or spreading to another location.
A doctor can help you determine which treatment is best for you based on how advanced the wart is. If the wart has returned, for example, your doctor might choose a different combination treatment to ensure its removal.
Once your doctor has diagnosed your plantar wart, they will recommend removal methods such as salicylic acid or cryotreatment.
It’s important to get a doctor’s advice before trying to remove the wart. Doing so without input from a physician could result in damage to your foot. Never try to remove a plantar wart by cutting it off yourself.
While there are home remedies floating around on the internet that may involve things like essential oils or apple cider vinegar, most of these treatments have not been proven and could end up causing more discomfort.
Most treatments for plantar warts take several weeks. The most important thing to remember when treating a wart is consistency.
Plantar warts can be difficult to eliminate and have a tendency to return, so be sure to follow your treatment plan carefully.
Cryotherapy usually requires two to three trips to the doctor for liquid nitrogen therapy. Laser therapy might work in one to three treatments.
If you’ve had your wart cut off by a doctor, stay off your foot for about a day. Keep the area covered with a bandage, and avoid putting pressure on the wart site.
To help prevent a plantar wart, consider the following tips:
- Always cover your feet in shared community spaces, such as pools, locker rooms, or dorms.
- If you are under 26 years old, ask your doctor about receiving the HPV vaccine. It may help prevent warts, though more research is needed.
- If you have a wart, change your shoes and socks daily.
- Keep the wart covered, and wash your hands frequently to avoid spreading plantar warts to other people.
Plantar warts are common and treatable. There’s no single treatment that’s always effective. You may be able to treat them at home, but more serious cases may require treatment at your doctor’s office.
Wart on the finger. How does a wart appear on a finger?
- Warts
- Species
- Facial
- On hand
- Finger
- On feet
- On the foot
- Flat
- Intimate
- Treatment
- Disposal methods
Warts located on the fingers or toes are not only a cosmetic defect, but can also cause significant physical discomfort. The appearance of these neoplasms provokes the human papillomavirus, which enters the body through contact with affected skin or when visiting a pool, sauna and other public places with high humidity. For a long time, it may not manifest itself in any way, since a healthy immune system is able to restrain its spread.
Causes
Factors favoring the activation of papillomavirus and the appearance of neoplasms on the fingers or toes are:
- the presence of microtraumas on the skin,
- violation of personal hygiene rules,
- wearing tight shoes,
- increased sweating,
- a sharp decrease in immunity caused by stress, malnutrition, etc.
A wart on a finger is a small nodule or papilla that has a dense structure and rises above the surrounding tissues. The skin around becomes a characteristic dark or light color. The surface of the growth is most often rough and rough, with black dots in the center.
Places of localization
Neoplasms that have appeared on the skin should not be ignored, as they can become inflamed and grow. Cracks that occur around the build-up can become a source of secondary infection. In addition, there is a risk of their degeneration into malignant forms.
Neoplasms can be located on any part of the skin of the fingers or toes. The appearance of a periungual wart is possible both directly near the nail and under it. Causing deformation of the nail plate, it leads to its thinning and destruction.
The greatest discomfort and pain is caused by warts located on the pads or between the fingers, as well as on the big toe. Due to anatomical features, it is he who is subjected to friction when wearing shoes to a greater extent than other fingers.
When to sound the alarm?
If neoplasms appear on the fingers or toes, you should consult a dermatologist for advice and treatment. Warts are subject to mandatory removal in case of:
- a significant increase in size or with the appearance of numerous “daughters”, a sharp change in color,
- bleeding or wetting,
- strong pain sensations.
The most effective way to reduce warts is laser removal. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia and takes a few minutes. Under the action of a laser beam, the affected tissues evaporate. The remaining indentation naturally disappears within a few days.
In addition, the removal of warts is carried out using liquid nitrogen and a special radio wave knife – Surgitron. However, one should remember the viral nature of such neoplasms, therefore, it is necessary to revise the diet, sleep and rest regimen, and other factors that affect the state of the immune system. Otherwise, the reappearance of warts is possible.
Warts on the feet why they occur and how to treat
Warts on the feet are common. Approximately 30% of patients come to the dermatologist with this problem.
And only a few know what to do with these growths.
These warts look like a round skin nodule that rises slightly above the skin. But sometimes they look different. We will talk about varieties later.
Most warts on the foot appear on the heel. Less often in other parts. While we are walking, our weight presses on the soles and then the neoplasms do not grow outward, but inside the leg. From above, they are protected by a dense and hard layer of skin.
Are warts on the feet dangerous?
These growths are not comparable to cancerous growths and usually do not threaten health. Disappear even without treatment.
Of course, they do not disappear in one day or a week. In most cases, warts stay on the feet for at least 14 days, and only then the immune system eliminates the cause of their appearance.
Unfortunately, sometimes you can’t do without the help of a doctor. Make an appointment with a dermatologist if:
- The growths hurt, bleed or change
- New warts appear
- Neoplasms interfere with daily life
- Immunity weakened due to drugs or diseases
In such situations, the growths rarely disappear on their own, and medical or surgical treatment is necessary.
Why?
To answer, it is important to understand how neoplasms arise.
Causes of foot warts
Plantar warts are caused by the human papillomavirus or HPV. Scientists know over 100 types of this virus.
It has different effects on a person. Most types are harmless – in the worst case scenario, they will grow warts.
But there are also dangerous types of HPV. In rare cases, they provoke the development of cancer of the genital organs.
Causes of warts on the feet – HPV types 1, 2, 4, 27 and 57. The virus enters through the skin. Usually through small cuts, scrapes and other damage.
Under the influence of the virus, skin cells mutate and turn into neoplasms.
This does not happen overnight. The HPV incubation period can last up to six months, and even then it affects the skin in different ways. Depends on immunity. In some family members, after infection, warts will grow quickly, while in others they will never appear.
Fortunately, plantar neoplasms are not very contagious, but at the same time they remain a threat even without direct contact. The virus survives in warm and humid environments. That is, on the floor next to the pool or in the common locker rooms. So in these rooms, doctors recommend wearing slippers or other shoes.
Plantar warts are especially common in people:
- Children and adolescents
- Weak immune system
- HPV reinfected
They also appear due to:
- Wearing tight and uncomfortable shoes
- Using someone else’s socks or pantyhose
- Heavy sweating on the feet
External signs of infection are not always the same – several varieties are known.
What warts on the feet look like
Not all growths on the soles are identical. Therefore, sometimes patients confuse warts with other growths and this interferes with effective treatment.
Fortunately, the signs of viral warts on the foot are easy to remember:
- Small hard growths, usually at the base of the toes or on the heel
- Dark spots on the skin – blood-filled superficial vessels
- Rough hardened skin around a prominent spot from which the wart grows deep into the leg
Other symptoms are also characteristic of these formations. For example, they cause pain and irritation when walking, which often changes the gait. This is how the body fights against the discomfort of warts. Sometimes patients themselves do not notice these changes.
These growths are recommended to be removed.
Why you need to get rid of warts
Up to 90% of neoplasms on the soles do not affect health and life. There were just a few bumps. And after a couple of months they disappeared. Sometimes people do not have time to visit a doctor, and the warts are already disappearing, without medication and therapy. And no problems with discomfort.
Unfortunately, not everyone is so lucky.
The remaining 10% of growths can make life extremely difficult – sometimes they cause severe pain when walking and limit mobility.
How to get rid of a wart on the foot ?
The first step is an examination by a dermatologist. The doctor makes the diagnosis easily.
Treatment is prescribed if education:
- Constantly growing
- Causes other neoplasms
- Hurts a lot
- Prevents normal walking
Patients usually like to fight warts with drugs and avoid surgery.
Ask your dermatologist about topical remedies for plantar growths. There are many such medicines. They gradually destroy the cells of neoplasms. But there is no 100% guarantee.
Medical treatment of warts is very slow and sometimes takes months to remove. Worse yet, the neoplasms can come back.
Yes, this does not always happen, but such cases are not uncommon. Therefore, for the effective treatment of viral warts on the foot, we recommend using one of the surgical methods.
Therapy options are many.
How to eliminate warts on the foot and prevent their appearance
Let’s start with an attack on neoplasms.
Doctors remove warts on the foot with operations:
- Laser coagulation
The doctor burns the altered skin cells with a powerful beam of light and at the same time bakes neighboring vessels. The procedure is bloodless and painless. Sometimes it is impossible to remove all the growth in one session and you need to visit the doctor several times to completely clean the skin. Then the wound on the skin heals for at least a couple of weeks.
- Cryodestruction
A dermatologist freezes wart tissue with liquid nitrogen. The growth completely freezes. Gradually, the tissues die off, and only the wound remains – after two weeks it also disappears. This method has few complications. However, the procedure is prohibited for women during pregnancy and for people with diabetes.
- Surgical excision
The doctor uses local anesthesia and cuts out the wart with a scalpel. Together with the wart, it also removes a small layer of healthy skin – this ensures the complete elimination of the neoplasm. The wound remains. Stitches are placed on it, and after treatment there is always a scar. Due to cosmetic flaws, this method is not very popular.
- Immunotherapy
The doctor prescribes drugs to strengthen the immune system – they help the body fight the virus and the growths on the skin disappear. Sometimes doctors give injections into the wart. Or treat it with a special cream.
- Electrocoagulation
The operation is similar to excision, but is performed not with a scalpel, but with a special device that generates high-frequency electric current. In fact, the growth is burned out with electricity. The wound remains. It crusts over and heals in just a few weeks.
Remember – warts are caused by the human papillomavirus and therefore they will continue to multiply until HPV is defeated.
Pay more attention to prevention.
To reduce the risk of infection:
- Avoid touching warts or be sure to wash your hands after touching them
- Do not walk barefoot near swimming pools or in changing rooms
- Examine and wash the soles of your feet every day
- Do not scratch growths
- Do not use the same pumice for healthy skin and warts
- Treat scratches and other damage promptly
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle
- Wear comfortable, loose shoes
These simple tips will help protect your body from frequent exposure to HPV. Occasionally, the virus will still sneak in, but in such situations, you need to rely on immunity. As you remember, in most cases, growths do not appear. And if they grow, they do not cause discomfort. It is extremely difficult to find a healthy person who regularly suffers from painful and uncomfortable growths on the feet.
Unfortunately, sometimes treatment is indispensable.
Therefore, it is useful to read about the nearest clinics and find out the cost of removing plantar warts.
The price of treatment of neoplasms on the foot
It is difficult to immediately answer how much the removal of warts costs.
The cost of the operation depends on many factors:
- Procedure type
- Place of execution
- Neoplasm size
- Physician experience
- Complications
These are just general points. Sometimes, in addition to paying for the operation, you need to buy a remedy for warts on the foot.
Much depends on the choice of clinic. Some people choose to have their growths removed at beauty salons because of the low cost, but this is not always beneficial.
Remember that if the build-up is not completely removed, an additional procedure will be required. It is much easier to immediately remove the wart, albeit at a higher price, than to run to the beautician every day.
Looking for a reliable medical center?
We recommend visiting the LaserSweet clinic.
Our doctors remove warts on the foot with a laser at an affordable price and in a short time.
Benefits of operation:
- Fast
Doctors remove a small neoplasm in just two minutes, and sometimes even faster. Larger formations take more time. Sometimes up to 10 minutes.
- Safety
The beam of light not only destroys the wart, but also disinfects the wound.
- Painless
Local anesthesia is given prior to removal. After that, the patient does not feel anything.
- Bloodless
Heating the skin bakes the blood vessels, and the possibility of bleeding is excluded.