Plantar warts are small, grainy growths that appear on the sole of the foot. These warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) and can be quite uncomfortable. If you have plantar warts, getting them treated is essential to relieve the pain and prevent them from spreading. In this article, we will explore the five things that happen when you get plantar wart treatment done.
1. Relief from Pain
Plantar warts can be painful, especially when you put pressure on them while walking. However, with proper treatment, you can experience significant relief from the discomfort. The treatment options for plantar warts include over-the-counter medications, cryotherapy, laser therapy, and surgical removal. Your healthcare provider will recommend the most suitable treatment based on the severity of your warts. Once the treatment is done, you can expect a reduction in pain and discomfort, allowing you to move around with ease.
Additionally, some treatments may also include pain medications or topical anesthetics to ensure a pain-free experience during the procedure. Your healthcare provider will discuss these options with you before starting the treatment.
2. Clearance of Wart
The primary goal of plantar wart treatment is to eliminate the wart completely. Depending on the treatment method chosen, you will either witness the wart shrinking and falling off or see it gradually disappear over time. Over-the-counter medications usually take several weeks to show results, while more advanced treatments like cryotherapy and laser therapy may provide quicker clearance.
It's important to note that not all treatments have a 100% success rate, and occasionally, warts may require multiple treatment sessions for complete clearance. Your healthcare provider will monitor the progress and recommend further steps if needed.
3. Prevention of Spreading
Another crucial aspect of getting plantar wart treatment done is preventing the warts from spreading. Plantar warts are highly contagious, and they can easily spread to other parts of your foot or to other people. By undergoing treatment, you not only address the existing warts but also minimize the risk of new warts developing.
Your healthcare provider will guide you on the necessary precautions you need to take during and after treatment to prevent the spread of warts. These may include keeping the area clean, avoiding sharing personal items, wearing clean socks and shoes, and refraining from walking barefoot in public places.
4. Improved Confidence and Self-esteem
Living with plantar warts can affect your confidence and self-esteem, particularly if they are visible or cause discomfort while walking. However, once you undergo the treatment and the warts are gone, you will notice a significant improvement in how you feel about your feet. No more hiding them or feeling self-conscious in social situations.
Getting rid of plantar warts can give you the confidence to show off your feet without any worries. Whether it's wearing open-toed shoes or going barefoot on the beach, you can enjoy these activities without any inhibitions.
5. Reduced Recurrence Rate
While there is no foolproof way to prevent plantar warts from recurring, undergoing proper treatment can significantly reduce the chance of them coming back. By completely eliminating the original wart, you eliminate the source of infection, making it harder for new warts to develop.
However, it's important to maintain good foot hygiene, regularly check your feet for any suspicious growths, and take necessary precautions to minimize the risk of reinfection. Your healthcare provider can provide valuable advice on preventing recurrence.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How long does plantar wart treatment take?
The duration of plantar wart treatment depends on the severity of the warts and the chosen treatment method. Over-the-counter treatments may take several weeks to show results, while cryotherapy or laser therapy may require multiple sessions spread over a few weeks.
2. Is plantar wart treatment painful?
Some treatment methods, such as cryotherapy or laser therapy, may cause discomfort during the procedure. However, healthcare providers often use pain medications or topical anesthetics to ensure a pain-free experience.
3. Can I remove plantar warts at home?
While there are over-the-counter treatments available for plantar warts, it is generally recommended to seek professional medical advice for proper diagnosis and treatment. Home remedies may not be as effective and can lead to complications if not done correctly.
References:
- Mayo Clinic - Plantar warts
- WebMD - What to know about plantar warts
- Healthline - How to get rid of plantar warts
