Warts (Verrucae)

A wart is a contagious virus that can present anywhere on the body and differs from the normal skin patterns. They tend to sit within the top layer of skin, the epidermis, which makes them so hard to get rid of. At their place on the skin, the body can’t fight them off on its own and so external treatments are needed to break down the virus's defenses. This lets the body’s immune system attack and destroy the wart.

Another problem with warts is that they are very contagious. If you have a wart, you can spread it to others and to yourself. For example, if you are continually touching a wart on the bottom of your foot, it is easy to transmit to your fingers or other parts of your foot that you touch.

Common signs and symptoms:

  • Warts can vary in their appearance; some can be dome-shaped, flat, rough or a different colour than normal skin

  • May cause pain or irritation if they are on weight-bearing areas of the foot

What causes warts?

Warts are caused by one of the many types of Human Papilloma Virus (HPV). This virus is spread through contact with an infected individual or surface (i.e., a communal shower, swimming pool). 

Treatment:

There are several treatment options available depending on the state of the wart. Often times, multiple treatment sessions are required to fully eradicate the wart. These include:

  • Cryotherapy

  • Cathacur

  • Silver nitrate

  • Prescription salicylic acid

  • Curette excision

  • Needling

Prevention:

  • Remember, Verruca are infectious.

  • DO keep it covered, even while washing.

  • DO use your own towel and bathmat.

  • DO cover existing warts with a waterproof bandage before going into a pool or public shower to prevent the spread of the virus.

  • DO NOT use showers in sports centres or public pools WITHOUT wearing water shoes or flip flops.

  • DO NOT share shoes.

  • DO NOT pick or scratch a wart- this is how they spread to your finger, hand, and face

  • Treatment should be prompt to prevent further spread.

  • Remember to use Detto/Javex/Lysol to disinfect socks and shoes.

  • Remember that warts are a virus, and can take up to several years to resolve.

The foot specialists at East Foot Clinic can easily help treat warts. To book an appointment please call 647-501-3338 or email info@eastfootclinic.com.