Viral Warts

Viral warts, commonly known as plantar warts, are skin lesions caused by HPV infection. They attack the epidermis, causing excessive keratinization and forming hard nodules that are often painful under pressure. They most commonly appear on the feet and can spread to other areas of the skin. In the early stages, their development is usually unnoticed.

Causes of viral warts

• Virus infection through contact with contaminated surfaces (swimming pool, sauna, shower, locker room floor)
• Micro-injuries to the skin (especially during physical activity)
• Reduced immunity and frequent viral infections
• Circulatory and microcirculatory disorders
• Excessive foot sweating (hyperhidrosis)
• Wearing tight, non-breathable footwear
• Other HPV infections or chronic diseases such as diabetes, oncological treatment, immunosuppressive therapy
• Failure to disinfect shoes and socks – re-infection with your own virus

Symptoms:

• Hard, rough skin lesion, often with black dots (thrombosed capillaries)
• Pain when pressure is applied or while walking
• Feeling of a 'stone in the shoe' or 'nail in the foot'
• Itching, burning, or discomfort
• Absence of fingerprints on the surface of the lesion (distinguishes it from a callus)
• Possible occurrence in multiple locations on the foot – multiple lesions (mosaic warts)

Foot care recommendations

1. Wash feet daily and dry thoroughly (especially between toes).
2. Perform a blood test with differential and vitamin D3 level, and consult results with a doctor along with proper supplementation.
3. Use antibacterial and antifungal substances such as thyme, sage, rosemary, tea tree oil (AArkada, Gehwol, Pharm Foot).
4. Frequently 'air out' the feet and walk without socks, wear cotton or silver-ion socks.
5. Wear breathable footwear and avoid staying in wet shoes.
6. Send all shoes to a laundry for ozone treatment or disinfect them yourself using formalin.
7. Use probiotic sprays, soaps, and foams to restore healthy skin microflora and pH (Pharmaceris A, Tołpa physio microbiome, Pedi Pro, Podopharm).
8. After removing the post-treatment dressing (preferably after 24h), apply a skincare preparation at home once daily (at night) under a dressing. Cover the lesions daily.
9. Recommended medical foot care at the clinic – follow-up visit every 7-14 days.