Frogs don’t cause warts
As a child you may have been told warts were caused by kissing frogs
. They are actually caused by a virus, which invades the skin through very small cuts and abrasions. Since the virus is lurking on the ground it can be contracted by barefoot walking. Like any other infectious lesion, plantar warts spread by touching, scratching, or even by contact with skin shed from another wart.
Warts on the bottom of feet are called plantar warts.
Many times they are confused with a corn or callous. Plantar warts tend to be hard, flat, with a rough surface, well-defined boundaries and have pinpoint black areas. On top of the foot they appear fleshier and raised.
Although rare, malignant lesions such as carcinomas and melanomas can sometimes be confused as a wart.
Plantar warts can cause sharp, burning pain.
Tips for Wart Prevention
- Avoid barefoot walking
- Change shoes and socks daily.
- Keep feet dry and clean.
- Check your child’s feet regularly.
- Don’t touch warts on other people.
- Use flip-flops in public showers
If You Get a Wart
- Avoid over-the-counter preparations because may contain salycylic acid
- See your podiatrist before the wart becomes larger and spreads
- Diabetics and people with circulatory or neurological problems should only seek professional care
This year make your goal to keep your feet virus free by following these suggestions. And remember, don’t blame the frogs.
Dr. Olga Garcia Luepschen and the Gentle Foot Care Center are located at 2 Ryant Blvd (on US 27). For further information call 863-314-9255 or www.gentlefootcarecenter.com
