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Warts: Diagnosis & Treatments

Warts can be perceived as unsightly, embarrassing, or even stigmatizing. But they don’t have to be! They are common, easily identified, and simply treated. At Best Foot Doctor NY, you can be confident in the treatment you will receive. This article will discuss how doctors diagnose warts and the treatments available in the office.

Diagnosis

Warts are rough patches of skin most commonly found on the fingers, hands, and feet. They are not typically painful. Most people develop warts through direct contact with the HPV virus on a contaminated surface or through contact with another person. Once someone is infected, warts can spread easily, but they often go away on their own.

Treatments

Warts that are persistent and spread without getting better may indicate a weakened immune system. Painful, discolored, or excessively growing patches of warts should be treated by a physician. Some people choose to get all warts treated due to their appearance or interference with daily activities. There are multiple options for treatment of warts. The following treatments are provided by Best Foot Doctor NY.

Salicylic Acid

Salicylic acid treatments work from the top down slowly killing the wart. Because warts grow down into the skin rather than up, this process can take a long time and is best combined with freezing the wart.

Several other acid treatments may be more effective for you. Talk to your doctor about using pineapple, apple cider vinegar, or other home remedies. 

Freezing

Freezing the wart (cryotherapy) can be a very effective treatment. The cold liquid nitrogen forms a blister around and below the wart, killing the blood supply. As the cryotherapy takes effect, the area will darken as the capillaries bringing blood to the wart are destroyed. Without a supply of oxygen and nutrients, the wart will die, and eventually, the skin will return to normal.  

The freezing process can be painful, but it is quite effective. 

FAQ: Why Does A Wart Turn Brown After the Doctor Freezes It?

The wart may turn brown, and you may notice blood blisters in the area. This discoloration is normal and is caused by the blood coagulating as the blood supply to the wart is cut off. 

Combination Treatment

Some doctors recommend freezing and salicylic acid in combination with each other. Both treatments typically require multiple visits to ensure the wart is completely killed. Cutting treatment short may result in warts coming back quickly. 

Prevention

To prevent future occurrences or spread, wash your hands and feet often. If you currently have warts, avoid touching them, and do not share towels or other hygiene products. Keep the area around your warts protected. keep any breaks in your skin covered and clean to avoid the spread of the HPV virus. 

If you think you may have warts on your feet, contact one of our offices in Brooklyn, Queens, or Manhattan for a consultation. We provide state-of-the-art treatments in a caring, collaborative environment.

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