Warts Q & A
What are warts?
Warts are growths caused by viral skin infections. They’re usually smaller than the head of a thumbtack, but they can sometimes grow larger.
Plantar warts develop on the bottom of your feet or on your toes. Other types of warts can appear on the top of your feet as well.
Can warts be prevented?
Different types of warts are caused by different strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV), which can be spread to other people through skin-to-skin contact or by sharing an environment with someone who has a wart. Plantar warts are often transferred through shared shower facilities because the moisture in those environments helps keep the virus alive longer.
Follow these precautions to help prevent warts from spreading:
- Wash hands and feet frequently
- Don’t pick at warts
- Don’t touch your warts or someone else's
Even if you don’t have plantar warts, it’s a good idea to wear shower shoes in public pools, gyms, and other shared environments.
What are the symptoms of plantar warts?
You may have plantar warts if you have a small growth on the bottom of your foot with any of the following characteristics:
- Tiny dark spots
- Rough or spongy texture
- Scaly appearance
- Pain when walking or standing
If you’re unsure if your growth is a wart or not, it’s a good idea to have an evaluation by your Podiatrist to rule out any conditions that can lead to a severe complication.
Can I treat plantar warts at home?
Over-the-counter medications and freezing sprays are available, but these are much less effective than the treatments your doctor can provide. If you’ve tried over-the-counter treatment without success, it’s not advisable to repeat the treatment, as this can aggravate your discomfort.
You should never attempt to cut a wart off on your own.
How does a podiatrist treat warts?
There are a range of options for treating warts. These include:
- Prescription-strength salicylic acid
- Canthacur, a more aggressive topical treatment
- Liquid nitrogen freezing
- Laser removal
- Surgical removal
