As we make our way into the month of August, we sadly note the end of summer in sight. At this point in the year, however, children will still be heading off to the local pool for a refreshing swim to escape the summer heat. Unfortunately, environments such as the community pool, can harbor a host of various germs and bugs. One of which can cause warts to form on both children and adults alike. Warts are the most common infection of the skin caused by a virus. This virus, known as human papilloma virus (HPV), can invade the underside of the foot by direct contact creating plantar warts. Two main things may make a person more or less susceptible to plantar warts. This includes (1) being more genetically predisposed to getting them or (2) getting them due to circumstance of the environment (i.e. walking barefoot in public areas or showers). Warts can often hurt as they will feel like a bump under the foot. This and the less than favorable appearance of the wart will often encourage a patient to seek treatment. After over the counter self-treatments, some professional treatment options include burning the wart off with an acid (such as salicylic acid), freezing the warts (cryotherapy - discussed in a previous blog), and even laser treatment.
As for many medical issues, prevention is oftentimes key. The biggest idea behind plantar wart prevention focuses on the avoidance of walking barefoot in public areas, especially those shower rooms at the community pool. In addition, it's important to keep your feet clean and dry, to change your socks daily, and to check children's feet periodically (summer months especially). When keeping these things in check, you can leave your worries at home while enjoying a day at the pool.
No comments:
Post a Comment