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WART TREATMENTS

WATER TREATMENTS

Effective Solutions for Stubborn Warts

Warts are small, rough growths on the skin caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). Although generally harmless, warts can be unsightly, uncomfortable, and sometimes painful, making them a nuisance for many people. At Ryan Foot and Ankle Clinic, our expert podiatrists specialize in diagnosing and treating warts, offering a range of effective treatments tailored to your needs.

Understanding Warts

Warts can appear anywhere on the body, but they are most commonly found on the hands, feet, and fingers. On the feet, they are referred to as plantar warts. Warts are contagious and can spread through direct contact with the virus, whether from person to person or by touching contaminated surfaces. Common types of warts include:

Plantar Warts

Found on the soles of the feet, plantar warts can be particularly painful due to the pressure from walking or standing. They may appear as rough, grainy growths with black pinpoints, which are small, clotted blood vessels.

Common Warts

Typically found on the hands and fingers, these warts are rough, raised, and dome-shaped. They often have a cauliflower-like appearance.

Flat Warts

Smaller and smoother than other types, flat warts tend to grow in large numbers, often on the face, hands, or legs.

Symptoms of Warts

Warts are generally easy to identify by their distinct appearance, but they can vary in size, shape, and color. Common symptoms include:

Rough Texture

Warts have a rough, bumpy surface that can feel like a callus.

Raised or Flat Growths

Warts may appear as raised, dome-shaped growths or flat, smooth lesions.

Black Pinpoints

Many warts, especially plantar warts, have tiny black dots on the surface, which are clotted blood vessels.

Pain or Tenderness

Plantar warts, in particular, can cause pain when walking or standing, due to the pressure placed on them.

Treatment Options for Warts

Warts can be persistent and difficult to treat, but there are several effective methods available to remove them and prevent their recurrence. At Ryan Foot and Ankle Clinic, we offer the following wart treatment options:

Topical Treatments

Over-the-counter or prescription-strength topical medications containing salicylic acid can help dissolve the wart over time. These treatments require regular application and can be effective for small, less persistent warts.

Cryotherapy (Freezing)

Cryotherapy involves applying liquid nitrogen to the wart, freezing it, and causing it to eventually fall off. This method is commonly used for larger or more stubborn warts and may require multiple sessions.

Laser Therapy

Laser treatments use focused light energy to target and destroy the blood vessels within the wart, causing it to shrink and eventually fall off. This method is often used for warts that do not respond to other treatments.

Cantharidin Treatment

Cantharidin is a chemical applied to the wart that causes a blister to form beneath it. After the blister forms, the wart can be easily removed. This treatment is painless when applied but may cause discomfort as the blister forms.

Electrosurgery and Curettage

In this procedure, the wart is burned with an electric current (electrosurgery) and then scraped off with a curette. This method is often used for larger warts or those that have not responded to other treatments.

Immunotherapy

For warts that are resistant to traditional treatments, immunotherapy may be used to stimulate the body’s immune system to fight off the HPV virus. This can involve injections or topical treatments.

Preventing Warts

Preventing warts involves minimizing your exposure to the HPV virus and taking steps to reduce the risk of spreading warts to others or to different parts of your body:

Avoid Direct Contact

Avoid touching warts on yourself or others, and refrain from picking at warts to prevent spreading the virus.

Keep Feet Dry and Clean

Since warts thrive in moist environments, keeping your feet dry and wearing flip-flops in communal showers or pools can help reduce the risk of plantar warts.

Do Not Share Personal Items

oid sharing towels, shoes, or socks with others, as these can transmit the virus.

Why Choose Ryan Foot and Ankle Clinic?

At Ryan Foot and Ankle Clinic, we are committed to providing personalized care and effective treatments to help you get rid of warts for good. Our team of skilled podiatrists is equipped with the latest techniques and technologies to ensure the best possible outcome for our patients.

If you’re struggling with warts, don’t hesitate to seek professional treatment. Visit one of our five convenient podiatric offices in Charlotte University, Ballantyne, South Park, Concord, or Harrisburg to schedule an appointment today. We’re here to help you achieve clear, healthy skin and put your best foot forward.

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