6 Ways to Prevent Plantar Warts This Summer
Do you feel pain on the sole of your foot when walking barefoot? Plantar warts on the foot are more common during the warmer months. They’re even more noticeable because we’re going barefoot more often. So because July is Wart Awareness Month, today, Dr. Ross Cohen of The Foot & Ankle Center of Maryland in Anne Arundel County, Maryland, is sharing more information regarding plantar warts and how to get rid of them.
What causes warts?
Plantar warts on the sole of the foot are caused by the human papillomavirus. There are several different varieties of the virus and, therefore, there are many different kinds of warts. When on the foot, warts can be raised and round, or large, small, or flat. The wart itself is not normally painful, but it can become painful when pressure is applied or when walking barefoot.
Prevent Plantar Warts: 6 Tips
Don’t walk barefoot, particularly on damp surfaces such as the gym or pool shower.
Don’t make direct contact with the wart, and if you must, wash hands immediately.
Examine your feet regularly. Don't ignore lesions, changes in your skin, or growths. If you see any changes or are concerned, contact your podiatrist to schedule a check-up.
Cleanse your feet daily. Fungus, viruses, and fungus are present in our environment. Cleaning your feet daily can help decrease your risk of athlete's foot, warts, and toenail fungus.
Make sure your feet stay dry. Damp, dark places are perfect breeding grounds for fungus and bacteria that cause foot infections. Change your socks and shoes at least once a day to let them dry out completely.
Schedule a visit with your podiatrist at the first sign of a problem.
If you are experiencing a problem with a wart, or any other issue on your foot, contact the office of Dr. Ross Cohen of The Foot & Ankle Center of Maryland in Glen Burnie, Maryland, at (410) 761-3501 today to schedule a consultation.
Don’t try to diagnose the problem yourself because some lesions appear to be warts but are actually a form of skin cancer.