The Warmer Wart Weather is Here!

The warmer weather is here and the official start of summer is right around the corner. As the temperature inches higher and higher, everyone is getting ready for summertime fun time! However, podiatrists also refer to summertime as “wart season.” Today, Dr. William Buffone of North Fork Podiatry/Three Village Podiatry is sharing information regarding plantar warts – what they are, how to avoid them, and how they can be treated.

Together with the excitement of shorts, swimsuits, and warmer weather comes the urge to walk barefoot, especially around the pool or locker room. And after the tough northeast winter we had, with ice storms, snowfall, and freezing temperatures, we can’t wait to break out the grill, put on some sunblock and head to the pool!

But unfortunately, walking barefoot just one time is enough to contract plantar warts. These warts are actually contagious viruses that can be spread from one person to another. They survive in moist, warm environments, which make places such as locker rooms, the boardwalk and pool decks common areas to pick up a wart.

What Are Plantar Warts and How Are They Treated?

Plantar warts are small, granular-looking areas located on the bottom of your feet that are often painful when walking. In some cases, you will see a brown or dark red mark inside the wart.

Caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), teenagers and children face the risk of contracting these warts. People who are unable to develop a normal immune response and those who have had plantar warts in the past are also at risk. But otherwise healthy adults who go barefoot in a compromised area can also be affected.

There are numerous treatment options that your podiatrist can review with you to treat plantar warts. Over-the-counter products should be used with caution because they can cause chemical burns if used incorrectly.

The most effective treatment, however, is administered by a podiatrist who can shave down any callus or dead skin that forms around the wart. Topical acids that are stronger than those you can purchase over the counter are also used.

So put on your swimsuit and fire up the grill! But don’t forget the sunblock (yes, on your feet, too) and don’t forget to put on a pair of shoes or sandals! If you do notice something that looks like a wart on your foot, don’t delay - contact Dr. William Buffone of North Fork Podiatry/Three Village Podiatry as soon as possible to schedule an appointment.

You can reach Three Village Podiatry at (631) 474-3338, North Fork Podiatry (Southold) at (631) 765-6777 or North Fork Podiatry (Riverhead) at (631) 419-7107 today or schedule your appointment online.