A verruca, also known as a plantar wart, is a small, rough growth that appears on the soles of the feet. Caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), verrucas are generally harmless and often resolve without treatment over time. However, they can sometimes cause discomfort, especially when located on weight-bearing areas of the foot.
Symptoms:
- Appearance: Verrucas are typically round or oval with a rough, grainy surface. They may have small black dots in the center, often referred to as “wart seeds,” which are tiny blood vessels.
- Location: Commonly found on the soles of the feet, especially on weight-bearing areas like the heels and balls of the feet.
- Pain: Walking or standing may become uncomfortable due to the pressure exerted on the verruca.
Causes and Transmission:
HPV thrives in warm, moist environments, making places like swimming pools, communal showers, and locker rooms common sites for transmission. The virus enters the skin through tiny cuts or abrasions, leading to the development of a verruca. While anyone can contract a verruca, individuals with weakened immune systems or those who frequently walk barefoot in public areas are at a higher risk.
NHS Information on Verruca
The NHS in Wales has produced helpful Information on Warts and Verrucas whilst there are several informative images of verrucaes in this Scottish NHS resource on Warts and Verrucas
Self-Care Measures:
- Foot Hygiene: Keep feet clean and dry. Regularly wash and thoroughly dry them, especially between the toes.
- Footwear: Wear protective footwear, such as flip-flops, in communal areas like swimming pools and showers to reduce the risk of contracting or spreading the virus.
- Avoid Direct Contact: Refrain from touching or picking at verrucas to prevent spreading the virus to other parts of the body or to other individuals.
- Avoid Sharing Personal Items: Do not share towels, socks, or shoes with others to minimize the risk of transmission.
- Cover Verrucas: When swimming or participating in communal activities, cover the verruca with a waterproof plaster to prevent spreading the virus.
- Maintain Skin Integrity: Keep the skin on the feet healthy and moisturized to prevent cracks and cuts that can serve as entry points for the virus.
Help at the Pharmacy:
While many verrucas resolve on their own within 6 to 12 months in children and up to two years in adults, treatment may be sought for persistent, painful, or spreading verrucas. It’s important to note that no single treatment guarantees complete removal, and some methods may cause discomfort or have side effects.
- Over-the-Counter (OTC) Treatments:
- Salicylic Acid: Available in forms such as creams, gels, paints, and medicated plasters, salicylic acid works by gradually removing the infected skin. Consistent daily application is required, and treatment can take up to three months. It’s essential to protect the surrounding healthy skin to prevent irritation. nhsinform.scot
- Cryotherapy Kits: OTC cryotherapy products use freezing agents to destroy verruca tissue. However, these are generally less effective than professional treatments and may not reach temperatures low enough to eradicate the virus.
When to seek Medical Advice
Consult a healthcare professional if:
- Persistent Symptoms: The verruca does not improve with OTC treatments or continues to spread.
- Pain and Discomfort: Significant pain interferes with daily activities.
- Uncertainty: There is doubt about the diagnosis, especially if the lesion changes in appearance or colour.
- Underlying Health Conditions: Individuals with diabetes or compromised immune systems should seek medical advice before attempting self-treatment, as they may be at higher risk for complications.
A doctor is likely to send patients with verrucae symptoms to a Podiatrist or a Chiropodist for treatment. (if the doctors surgery have access to their services)
Professional Treatments:
- Cryotherapy: Performed by healthcare professionals, this method involves applying liquid nitrogen to freeze the verruca. Multiple sessions may be necessary, and the procedure can be painful, with potential side effects like blistering.
- Minor Surgery: In cases where other treatments have failed, minor surgical procedures can remove the verruca. These methods are typically considered when the verruca is particularly large or causing significant pain.
Summary
While verrucas are common and often harmless, they can cause discomfort and may require treatment. A variety of treatment options are available, ranging from OTC remedies to professional medical interventions. Preventive measures and good foot hygiene play crucial roles in managing and reducing the risk of verrucas. If in doubt or if the verruca persists, seeking advice from a healthcare professional is recommended.