Planter Wart
Plantar warts are unwelcome growths that develop on the bottom of your feet. They typically appear at pressure points on the heel or ball of the foot. They are often mistaken for calluses or corns. They are fleshy, flat, hard growths with clearly-defined edges. They can be brown or gray, with clotted blood vessels that appear as black pinpoints.
HPV
Plantar warts are noncancerous and are caused by the human papillomavirus, referred to as HPV. There are more than 100 types of human papillomavirus. Some types cause warts on the hands, others on the soles of the feet. HPV thrives in moist, warm environments, such as locker rooms and shower stalls. Plantar warts are not highly contagious, and not everyone responds to the virus in the same way. HPV enters the body through cuts or abrasions on the bottom of the feet.
Untreated
If left untreated, a plantar wart will shed the virus, infecting the surrounding tissue and resulting in more warts. A plantar wart can grow to about an inch in circumference and spread in clusters. Warts multiply rapidly and the best solution is to treat the first plantar wart immediately. Plantar warts can become extremely painful, making it difficult for the sufferer to walk comfortably.
Infection
Plantar warts are not highly contagious, but if you are susceptible to the infection and have cuts or abrasions on the soles of your feet, you can catch the infection after walking barefoot in a public place.
Prevention
Keep your feet clean and dry. Don't go barefoot in public places. Avoid contact with warts. Don't pick at warts, which can spread the infection. Children and teenagers tend to be more susceptible to warts. Other people prone to plantar warts are people who are frequently exposed to the virus, have cuts on their feet or have weak immune systems. See a physician. More serious conditions can resemble plantar warts in appearance.
Tags: plantar wart, Plantar warts, your feet, barefoot public, cuts abrasions, have cuts