Every year, about 2% of Americans visit the doctor for the treatment of warts. Though common, warts tend to develop on the weight-bearing areas of your feet, which can cause pain and general discomfort. At his practice in 3rd Avenue, New York City, board-certified podiatrist, Lionel G. Hausman, DPM, works with patients of all ages to diagnose, treat, and remove warts. If you or a loved one are battling with warts, make an appointment today by calling the office or clicking the online booking tool.
Warts are small, fleshy bumps that usually appear on the soles and balls of your feet. They’re caused by a strain of the human papillomavirus (HPV) and occur when the virus enters your body through tiny cuts or cracks in your skin.
Most warts aren’t serious and go away on their own without treatment. However, some grow quite large and spread. If your warts cause you pain or prevent you from participating in your favorite activities, don’t wait to seek medical treatment.
The most obvious symptom of a wart is a bulbous, flesh-colored bump on your feet or toes. Other telltale signs of warts include:
Most warts also have a black dot or “seed” in the middle. This is a group of small, clotted vessels that supply the wart with blood.
Warts develop as a result of the HPV virus, of which there are over 100 strains. Everyone’s immune system responds to HPV differently. Some people develop warts, others don’t.
That said, you’re more likely to experience warts if:
You’re also at risk of getting warts if you walk barefoot in areas where the virus thrives such as locker rooms, saunas, and swimming pools.
To diagnose warts, Dr. Hausman conducts a thorough physical exam. During this exam, he examines the lesion, pares the lesion with a scalpel, and removes a small section of the lesion for biopsy. Afterward, he sends your sample to a laboratory for analysis.
Dr. Hausman usually recommends conservative, noninvasive treatments to address warts. If you only have one or two, he might recommend treatment with an over-the-counter wart treatment. If your warts don’t respond, he might recommend an in-office treatment using salicylic acid or cryotherapy.
If your warts persist or continue to spread, a more invasive treatment might be necessary. In this instance, Dr. Hausman might recommend immunotherapy, minor surgery, or laser treatment.
Don’t let warts prevent you from living your best life. To request your consultation with Lionel G. Hausman, DPM, today, call the office or click the online booking tool.
