Posted on December 4, 2008 in Latest News
Plantar warts are skin growths on the bottom of the feet. These warts are non-cancerous, rough, hard, with a bumpy surface. They have dark pinpoints, which indicate clotted blood vessels. Even though they do not have serious health consequences, warts on bottom of foot can be painful and bothersome.
How are Plantar Warts Caused?
Plantar warts are caused by human papillomavirus (HPV), which gets into the skin of the foot through breaks, tiny cuts or scratches. Initially the wart may not be apparent. However, after several weeks or months, the growth can be noticed. The wart can grow in circumference and can also spread in clusters known as mosaic warts.
Warts on bottom of foot are painful as they are constantly under pressure. Plantar warts can make walking or running very difficult, especially when you have multiple warts on foot. The HPV responsible for these warts infects a person through contaminated floors in places such as swimming pools, public locker rooms, and common bathing areas etc.
How can Plantar Warts Be Prevented?
Plantar warts can be prevented in the following ways:
- Do not walk barefoot, especially in places such as gym, locker rooms etc.
- Make sure you do not share socks and shoes as they can spread infection
- Avoid sharing bathing areas
- Make sure you keep your feet clean and dry
- Shoes and socks should be changed everyday
Multiple plantar warts on foot can sometimes be confused with corns or calluses. However, plantar warts bleed when they are scraped as they contain blood vessels. Also, your doctor can diagnose a plantar wart by inspecting it or by sending the tissue to the laboratory.
Plantar Warts Treatment:
You can consult a doctor if the warts on the bottom of foot are painful and bothersome. Here are some treatments for plantar warts:
- Salicylic acid solution or patch can be used to treat the warts
- Duct tape is also effective in removing the warts
- Cryotherapy involves freezing the warts with liquid nitrogen and removing them
- Removal of warts can also be done through laser therapy, surgical excision and curettage
A single plantar wart can grow in size. Sometimes, if left untreated plantar wart can result in multiple warts on foot. Hence, be careful and take preventive measures to keep your feet safe from plantar warts
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