If you have stubborn warts that cause pain or make you feel uneasy, you’re not alone. We are here to help you.
Verrucae, or plantar warts, are common lumps that show up on the bottoms of the feet. They are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). These warts can hurt when you walk because they press on the feet.
At Cryosonic, we provide special treatments for verrucae removal in Cardiff. We use modern cryotherapy methods to help both adults and kids get rid of verrucae safely and well. Let us assist you in walking comfortably again!
Before getting treatment, it helps to understand what verrucae are and why they happen. Verrucae, known as plantar warts, come from some types of the human papillomavirus (HPV). This virus enters the skin through tiny cuts or scrapes, often on the bottoms of the feet. The pressure on the soles makes the warts grow inside rather than outside.
Common Symptoms of Verrucae:
A small, rough area on the bottom of the foot, often with a black dot in the center.
2. Pain or tenderness when standing or walking
3. A hardened layer of skin over the growth
4. Disruption in the normal lines of skin on the foot.
These warts can spread easily. You can catch them from places like swimming pools, locker rooms, or gym floors. Some warts may go away by themselves. However, others might not go away and may need a doctor’s help. It is important to see a doctor if they hurt or start to spread.
Yes, verrucae are contagious. They can spread through direct contact with an infected area or by touching surfaces contaminated with the virus, such as pool floors or communal showers.
Can verrucae come back after treatment?
In some cases, verrucae can recur, especially if the HPV virus remains present. However, with proper care and follow-up treatments, the chances of recurrence can be minimized.
When deciding between cryotherapy and home remedies for verrucae removal Cardiff, cryotherapy is generally the more effective and reliable option. Here’s why:
1. Effectiveness:
Cryotherapy: Cryotherapy, or freezing the verruca with liquid nitrogen, is a highly effective treatment performed by a professional. It directly targets the cells of the verruca, causing them to break down and eventually fall off. The procedure is fast, efficient, and offers quicker results compared to home treatments.
Home Remedies: While some home remedies (like salicylic acid or duct tape) may work for mild cases, they often take longer to show results and may not completely remove the verruca. These remedies work by softening the wart, but they may not reach the deeper layers of the skin where the virus resides.
2. Speed of Results:
Cryotherapy: Cryotherapy typically requires just one or two treatments and shows visible results within days to weeks.
Home Remedies: Home remedies often take much longer, sometimes weeks or even months, to show any significant improvement, and may require continuous application.
3. Professional Supervision:
Cryotherapy: Since cryotherapy is performed by a professional, it ensures that the procedure is done safely and effectively. The expert can also assess whether the treatment is working and determine if follow-up sessions are necessary.
Home Remedies: While home remedies can be done independently, there’s a higher chance of improper application or side effects like skin irritation or scarring, especially if not used correctly.
4. Long-term Results:
Cryotherapy: Cryotherapy offers long-lasting results as it destroys the verruca at its root, reducing the risk of recurrence. If the verruca does come back, another cryotherapy session can be performed.
Home Remedies: Home remedies might not completely remove the verruca, which increases the likelihood of it returning. If not fully eradicated, the verruca can continue to grow back over time.
5. Safety:
Cryotherapy: Cryotherapy is a safe procedure when done by a trained professional. There is minimal risk of side effects, and the procedure is designed to target only the verruca without affecting surrounding skin.
Home Remedies: Some home remedies can cause irritation, burns, or damage to healthy skin if not used properly. For example, overusing salicylic acid can result in chemical burns, especially if the skin around the verruca is sensitive.
After getting verrucae removal Cardiff, especially with treatments like cryotherapy, it’s important to care for the area well. This helps it heal and keeps the verruca from returning. By following these simple aftercare tips, you can heal faster, reduce the chance of problems, and see the best results:
Keep the Treated Area Clean and Dry:
After treatment, you should keep the area dry. Clean it gently using mild soap and water. Then, use a clean towel to pat it dry. Doing this helps stop infections that might slow down healing.
Avoid Scratching or Picking at the Area:
A treated verruca may form a scab or blister. This is a normal part of healing. Do not pick at the scab. Picking can bring in bacteria, leave scars, or cause a new verruca to appear in the same place.
Wear Protective Footwear:
If you have warts on your feet, especially on the soles, wearing shoes or sandals is very important. Your footwear should cover the treated area. This keeps it safe from surfaces and pressure. Doing this can help reduce irritation. It also lowers the risk of more injury or germs getting in.
Apply Antiseptic Cream if Recommended:
Sometimes, your doctor may recommend a cream to help the area heal and reduce the risk of infection. Make sure to follow their instructions carefully.
Avoid Direct Sun Exposure:
Keep the treated area away from direct sunlight. Sunlight can irritate the skin and delay healing. If you must be in the sun, apply sunscreen to protect your skin.
Be Patient During the Healing Process:
It’s good to understand that a verruca may not disappear immediately. The body will gradually remove the treated area over several days or even weeks. During this time, don’t expect quick results. Also, avoid any treatments that might irritate the healing skin.
Monitor for Infection or Complications:
If the area becomes too red, swollen, or has pus, it could mean there is an infection. If you see these signs, Contact Us for the right advice and treatment.
Wear Protective Footwear in Public Areas
Always wear flip-flops or water shoes in communal spaces like gyms, pools, and showers to avoid direct contact with surfaces that may carry the HPV virus.
Keep Feet Clean and Dry
Wash your feet daily and thoroughly dry them, especially between your toes. Moisture provides an ideal environment for the virus, so maintaining dryness is crucial.
Change Socks and Shoes Regularly
Wear clean socks daily and ensure your shoes are breathable. Rotating footwear helps reduce moisture build-up, lowering the risk of infection.
Treat Cuts and Scrapes Promptly
Small cuts on your feet can allow the virus to enter the skin. Clean any injuries quickly and keep them protected with a sterile dressing until healed.
Boost Your Immune Health
A strong immune system is essential for fighting off infections. Maintain a healthy diet, regular exercise, and good sleep to support your body’s defenses against verrucas.