Warts are skin growths associated with certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV). They are able to develop on different areas of the body, and some vary in appearance, size, and location. A healthcare provider can evaluate a wart and discuss treatment options based on its characteristics and location. Here is more information about the common types of warts and their treatments:
Recognizing Common Wart Types
Warts are generally classified by their appearance and the area of the body where they develop. Common warts often appear on the hands or fingers, while flat warts are able to develop on the face, arms, or legs. Filiform warts have a narrow, thread-like appearance and commonly develop around the mouth, nose, or eyes. A healthcare provider can examine skin growths and determine the type of wart based on their characteristics.
Understanding Plantar Warts
Plantar warts develop on the soles of the feet and are able to grow inward because of pressure from walking or standing. They can have a rough, thickened surface that sometimes resembles a callus. Some plantar warts also contain small dark spots within the affected area.
Plantar warts are able to cause discomfort or tenderness, particularly when pressure is applied during daily activities. Their appearance can sometimes make them difficult to distinguish from corns or other skin conditions. A foot and ankle specialist is able to evaluate the growth and recommend treatment based on its location and characteristics.
Understanding How Warts Spread
Warts are associated with certain types of HPV, which can spread through contact with affected skin. The virus will sometimes enter through small cuts, cracks, or other openings in the skin. Exposure is able to occur in shared environments where people walk barefoot.
Warm and moist environments may increase opportunities for contact with the virus. Public showers, locker rooms, and swimming areas are common places where bare feet contact shared surfaces. Wearing footwear in these settings helps limit direct skin contact with shared surfaces. Keeping feet clean and dry also supports general foot hygiene.
HPV can also spread through direct contact with a wart or contaminated personal items. Touching a wart and then another area of skin may transfer the virus. Sharing items that contact affected skin is also able to create opportunities for transmission. A healthcare provider can provide guidance about wart care and reducing their spread.
Exploring Wart Treatment Options
Wart treatment depends on the type, location, size, and symptoms associated with the growth. A foot and ankle specialist is able to evaluate the affected area and discuss available treatment approaches. Some treatment options include:
- Using medicated patches: These products are applied directly to the wart according to treatment instructions.
- Using cryotherapy: This procedure applies liquid nitrogen to freeze the affected wart tissue.
- Applying topical medications: These treatments are placed on the wart and may require repeated applications.
- Applying immune-based medications: Certain medications support the body’s immune response against the virus.
- Removing wart tissue: A podiatrist may trim or shave layers of wart tissue during an office procedure.
Some warts require more than one treatment session based on their depth, location, or response to treatment. A provider is able to monitor the affected area and recommend additional care when appropriate.
Knowing When To Seek Care
Some warts may require medical evaluation based on their symptoms, appearance, or location. A healthcare provider is able to examine growths that become painful, change in appearance, or cause other concerns. Certain skin conditions can resemble plantar warts, so an evaluation helps identify the type of growth. A podiatrist is able to examine the affected area and discuss whether testing or treatment is appropriate.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
Warts can vary in appearance, location, and the symptoms they cause. A podiatrist is able to examine the affected area and identify the type of skin growth present. Treatment recommendations depend on the wart’s location, characteristics, and individual health needs. Contact a qualified podiatrist to schedule an evaluation and discuss available wart treatment options.
