Diagnosing Plantar Warts
Plantar warts are found on the soles or balls of the feet, and appear to be small, often colorless bumps with small black dots in the center. The dots are actually tiny clogged blood vessels inside the wart. They do not pose a major health threat, but can be painful. They will eventually go away without treatment, but home removal can speed up the process and eliminate discomfort more quickly.
Treating with Salicylic Acid
Salicylic acid is the most common ingredient found in over-the-counter wart medications and patches. Dermatologists recommend that you soak the wart in warm water for 15 to 20 minutes prior to using these products. Closely follow directions on the packaging of these products. Most require application two to three times a day for several weeks. They work by literally burning away the skin and the wart, effectively killing the virus, human papillomavirus (HPV) that causes the wart. Salicylic acid can be used by itself or with other doctor-prescribed therapies.
Duct Tape
Duct tape is an unlikely, yet effective way to treat plantar warts. In fact, the Journal of the American Medical Association reported findings of a study from The Netherlands in 2002 that found the ever-handy fix-all was actually more effective than cryotherapy, or freezing of warts, which has been done by physicians for years. Cover the wart with duct tape for six days, then soak the area in water for 15-20 minutes. After the skin is softened, exfoliate with a pumice stone or emery board. This should remove the wart, although you may need to repeat the process for up to two months.
When to Seek Professional Advice
If your wart multiplies rapidly, significantly changes color or shape or is particularly bothersome, consult your physician. Other skin conditions can cause bumps similar to warts in appearance. Your doctor may choose more aggressive prescription methods or other methods only available in a doctor's office. In addition, never attempt to treat plantar warts at home if you have diabetes or circulatory disease.
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