Plantar Wart

[Debbie88]

I have a history of plantar warts and treatments on my bottom left foot (top middle).   I now have one beginning on my bottom right foot (top middle).  Honestly, who is the best specialist for this?  A number of specialists treat plantar warts.  I have always seen a dermatologist.  However, I wonder if a podiatrist is a better Dr. for this ailment.  I did everything in the past including laser surgery and still have them reocurring on my left foot.  They don't hurt anymore there; however, the wart on my right foot is very painful now.  Who should I see this time? Thank you!

[Amanda0922]

I'm sorry, I don't have any answers for you. I just wanted to say I know what you're going through. I also had plantar warts at one point, more than one on the bottom of each of my feet. I know how painful they are and how frustrating it is to have them, esp the large ones. I had them for many many months and never saw a doctor because I didn't have insurance. I would remove them myself and if they grew back, I'd remove them again. Eventually, they stopped recurring thankfully. I do know that they are caused by a strain of hpv, so maybe taking a couple extra steps to boost your immune system could help?
Good luck :)

[BhumikaMD]

Hi,

One risk factor for plantar warts is walking barefoot in public places such as locker rooms, pools, or shower areas. Tight, closely fitting shoes can also create a breeding ground for warts. If a plantar wart causes difficulty walking, see a doctor. In the case of a plantar wart, a doctor needs to distinguish between corns, calluses, and warts. Usually, a physician can diagnose a plantar wart by its appearance, but if necessary, he or she can scrape the skin and send the sample to a lab for inspection.

Plantar warts are one of six main categories of warts. There are many forms of treatment for plantar and other warts. Some warts, including plantar warts, disappear without treatment. Home treatments include salicylic acid and tape occlusion. A doctor can also prescribe prescription or over-the-counter medications to help heal plantar warts.

A physician can also use an electrical current to burn a wart or laser surgery. Cryotherapy involves using a freezing liquid to dissolve a wart. Surgery is normally not used for plantar warts because it may result in painful scarring.

To prevent plantar warts, frequently change socks and shoes to keep feet dry. Keep feet clean. Also, avoid contact with warts on other parts of the body or on other persons. Visit your doctor if you notice any growths or unusual conditions on your skin.

Regards.