Plantar Warts
A wart is a small, rough growth on the skin caused by a virus called the human papillomavirus (HPV). Warts can appear anywhere on the body but are most common on the hands, fingers, and feet. They are typically painless but can sometimes cause discomfort and embarassment, especially on the feet.
Appearance: Warts can vary in shape and size. They are usually skin-colored and feel rough to the touch. Most often they are round or oval-shaped and raised, but can also appear in clusters. Sometimes you can see tiny black dots in a wart.
Cause: The culprit behind warts is the human papillomavirus (HPV). There are over 100 types of HPV, and only some of them cause warts. The virus enters the skin through tiny cuts or scratches.
Contagious: Warts can spread from person to person through direct contact or by sharing items like towels or razors. They can also spread to different parts of the body if you touch a wart and then touch another area of skin.
Types: Common types of warts include:
Common warts: Usually found on the hands and fingers.
Plantar warts: Appear on the soles of the feet and can be painful.
Flat warts: Smaller and smoother, often found on the face or legs.
Filiform warts: Have a thread-like appearance, usually around the mouth, nose, or beard area.
Prevention Tips
Avoid Direct Contact: Don't touch warts on yourself or others. If you do touch a wart, wash your hands thoroughly.
Keep Skin Clean and Dry: Warts thrive in moist environments because it makes the skin more permeable to picking up a virus. Make sure to dry your skin properly, especially after washing.
Wear Foot Protection: Use flip-flops or water shoes in public showers, locker rooms, and around swimming pools.
Don’t Share Personal Items: Avoid sharing towels, socks, shoes, or razors with others.
Cover Warts: If you have a wart, cover it with a bandage to prevent spreading the virus to other people and to other parts of your body.
Boost Your Immune System: A strong immune system can help your body fight off the virus that causes warts. Eat a balanced diet, exercise regularly, get enough sleep, and manage stress.
Treatment: Many warts go away on their own, but if they are bothering you, there are treatments to help speed up the process.
What to expect during a wart treatment appointment:
We will discuss different treatment options to find one suitable for you and your lifestyle. These might include prescription acids that you apply at home daily, blistering agents applied painlessly in the office, immune modulating medication or a minor procedure such a needling.
Stay tuned to learn more about each of the above treatment options!
Book an appointment today if you want a personalized approach to eliminating your plantar warts!