All You Need to Know about Plantar Wart Removal
Plantar wart removal seems like a daunting task for anyone struggling with the problem of these warts. A clear understanding of what causes the problem is the best first step to getting rid of the problem and the warts.
Plantar warts are found on the sole of the feet and unlike other warts such as facial warts these tend to grow inwards and so they look more like calluses than warts. The pressure on the warts from patients standing and walking makes them rather hard to the touch and there may even be a blood clot at the centre of some of them. Plantar warts typically appear near the heel area and around the balls of the feet.
Cause of plantar warts
Plantar warts are caused by human papillomavirus (HPV). Other variations of this virus cause genital warts and cervical cancer among other health problems. Plantar warts, which appear on the soles of one’s feet, are the result of the HPV that is typically found in humid and hot environments. Walking barefoot through public restrooms, areas around a swimming pool or locker rooms can potentially be risky. It is also not a good idea to share shoes with people unless you are very confident about their hygiene habits. Those with cracked feet or excessively dry feet are vulnerable to an attack of plantar warts. Plantar warts are also contagious from direct contact so being in physical contact with someone suffering from the problem. There is no question of developing immunity to HPV through exposure – so, repeated contact increases rather than decreases the chances of a person getting plantar warts.
While anyone can get plantar warts, it is interesting to note that not everyone who comes into contact with the virus gets the warts. It seems that there are some people who are predisposed to a vulnerability to the virus.
It is a good idea to wear water-resistant shoes in public swimming areas and to make sure that you wash and dry your feet thoroughly if you have used a public pool or shower. These are basic steps that will decrease the chances of your getting plantar warts.
If you suspect that the growth in your feet seems to be plantar warts it is best to visit a doctor to get a confirmed diagnosis. Early and prompt diagnosis can go a long way in dealing successfully with the problem.
Plantar wart removal
Once there is a proper diagnosis, the good news is that there are several tried and tested ways of removing the plantar warts: salicylic acid, cryotherapy, duct tape and laser surgery are all possible ways of getting rid of these unsightly and inconveniencing warts. Daily application of the salicylic acid usually helps get rid of the warts in a month’s time. In cryotherapy, doctors use liquid nitrogen to freeze the warts and this sort of erases them. There are several fairly reliable home remedies such as sticking a duct tape on the warts which helps pull of the warts in a few days. Careful cleansing of the dead cells helps the feet get back to normal in a couple of weeks. In cases of severe warts, surgery such as laser removal may be necessary.
While most of the methods of plantar wart removal are straightforward and can be done at home, it is worth emphasizing that high standards of cleanliness and hygiene should be observed at all times. Those who undertake wart removal at home should cleanse their hands before the procedure and use sterilized instruments where appropriate. It is also necessary to clean the surface after the removal with a disinfectant. Treat the process seriously to avoid a recurrence of the problem.