The Infectious Case of Plantar Warts
Plantar warts are small, rough lumps on the skin. They usually affect the soles of the feet. They can form a cluster pattern of growth called mosaic warts. Usually, these warts can be found on the areas of the feet that sustain the most pressure, like the heels and balls of the feet. Warts can grow inwards if the pressure increases during everyday activities like walking and standing. The body reacts to stop the wart from spreading by forming a hard callus. The callus can become a source of pain and interfere with our daily activities.
At times, plantar warts can be painless and only present visual symptoms. But they can also become painful and severe.
Some of the common symptoms of plantar warts include:
• A small, rough outgrowth on the soles of the feet, usually on the heels, ball, or the base of the toes
• The outgrowth may appear to be lighter than the skin tone of the unaffected skin
• Formation of a callus where the wart has managed to grow inwards
• The appearance of black dots or small clotted blood vessels, also known as wart seeds
• A clustered pattern of growth called mosaic warts
• Tenderness or pain during standing and walking
Most cases of plantar warts do not present a severe health risk. Usually, children, athletes, older adults, and immune-compromised people are susceptible. The mild cases go away on their own, but treatment can be applied if they cause concern.
Are warts contagious?
Plantar warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV – type 1). This virus infects the body via tiny cuts or scrapes on the skin’s surface. Like most viral infections, plantar warts are contagious. However, the strain of HPV causing plantar warts is not that contagious. What increases its transmissibility are the environmental factors. These warts thrive in moist, warm places, mainly where activities are barefooted, such as swimming pools, locker rooms, saunas, or yoga. Most healthy adult people develop immunity to HPV.
Usually, experts suggest prevention from viral infections. So, keep your feet dry and clean. Wear foot protection like shoes while walking in damp, moist places. Plantar warts can be treated with conservative therapy for mild discomfort and pain. Consult your doctor if the area around the wart becomes warm, red, and painful to the touch or more painful after an at-home intervention. This can be a sign of infection.
If you are experiencing complications from warts, contact a podiatrist for the best care and treatment. Call the friendly My Chicago Foot Expert staff at (773) 561-8100 or click here to schedule an appointment with Cook County podiatrist Stavros O. Alexopoulos, DPM, in our modern, comfortable Ravenswood office today.
