Planters Wart Or Corn On Bottom Of Foot
If you've ever had a painful and unsightly bump on the sole of your foot, you may be wondering if you have a plantar wart or a corn. While these two conditions are similar in appearance, they have different causes and treatments. In this article, we'll explore the differences between plantar warts and corns so that you can better understand how to treat them.
What Are Plantar Warts?
Plantar warts are small growths that appear on the soles of the feet. They are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), which enters the skin through tiny cuts or abrasions. Plantar warts often have a rough, grainy appearance and may have black dots in the center. They can be painful when you walk or stand on them, and they may become more painful over time.
What Are Corns?
Corns are thickened areas of skin that develop in response to pressure or friction. They usually occur on the toes or other bony parts of the foot, but they can also occur on the soles. Corns are typically round or cone-shaped, and they may be surrounded by dry, flaky skin. They can be painful when pressure is applied, such as when walking or wearing tight shoes.
How Are Plantar Warts and Corns Different?
Plantar warts and corns are different in several ways:
- Causes: Plantar warts are caused by a virus, while corns are caused by pressure or friction.
- Appearance: Plantar warts are usually small and rough with black dots, while corns are typically round or cone-shaped with dry skin around them.
- Location: Plantar warts appear on the soles of the feet, while corns can appear on any part of the foot that experiences pressure or friction.
- Pain: Plantar warts can be painful when you walk or stand on them, while corns are typically only painful when pressure is applied.
- Treatment: Plantar warts can be treated with over-the-counter remedies, prescription medications, or cryotherapy, while corns can be treated with over-the-counter pads, cushions, or creams.
How Are Plantar Warts and Corns Treated?
If you have a plantar wart, you may be able to treat it at home with over-the-counter remedies such as salicylic acid or duct tape. If home remedies don't work, your doctor may prescribe a medication such as imiquimod or cantharidin, or use cryotherapy to freeze the wart off.
If you have a corn, you can relieve the pain by wearing shoes that fit properly and using over-the-counter pads or cushions. You can also soak your feet in warm water and use a pumice stone to gently remove the dead skin.
Conclusion
Plantar warts and corns may look similar, but they have different causes and require different treatments. If you have a painful bump on the sole of your foot, it's important to see a doctor or podiatrist to determine the cause and the best course of treatment. With the right treatment, you can get relief from the pain and discomfort of plantar warts and corns.