Warts Specialist

What are warts?

Warts are a type of skin infection caused by human papillomavirus (HPV). Of the more than 150 different types of HPV, only a handful causes warts. HPV can enter the body through breaks and cuts in your skin. Warts are small, rough bumps that are easily spread from person to person and contact with contaminated objects like towels or washcloths. Warts most commonly affect your hands and feet. 

Although warts are typically harmless, they can become bothersome and spread to different areas of your body. If left untreated, warts can take months or years to clear up on their own and frequently recur.  

What are the symptoms of warts?

Symptoms include:

• Small, fleshy growths
• Bumps that are rough to the touch
• Growths with small black dots (clotted blood vessels)

Warts can become painful and interfere with your daily activities. Although warts can affect anyone, they’re most common in children, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems. Certain behaviors like biting your nails can leave small breaks in your skin, increasing your risk of warts. 

What are plantar warts?

Plantar warts are warts that develop on the soles of your feet. Plantar warts are usually located on weight-bearing areas of your feet and cause pain when you walk or apply pressure to your feet. Plantar warts can affect your posture and the way you walk, leading to complications with your muscles and joints. Plantar warts are frequently spread through contact with moist, public environments like swimming pools and locker rooms. 

How are warts treated?

For some, warts may clear up on their own without treatment. Without treatment, warts can take up to two years to clear up. During this time, they typically recur and spread to other areas. The goal of treatment is to destroy the wart and allow your skin to return to normal. Certain treatments like cryotherapy also trigger your immune system and help your body fight the infection. Depending on your symptoms and the location of your warts, your doctor may recommend:

• Prescription-strength peeling medication
• Cryotherapy
• Laser treatment

In some cases, your doctor may perform a minor surgical procedure to remove the affected tissue. To speak with a doctor about treating your warts, call Wake Forest Foot and Ankle or book an appointment online today.