Effective Treatments for Warts and Skin Allergies: Seeking Relief

Treatment methods for warts?

Hello Dr.
Zheng,
Since winter, I have been experiencing many small red spots from my ankles to my thighs that are often itchy and tend to cluster together.
I consulted a doctor who said it was due to allergies and unstable weather.
Is there a permanent solution for this?
Additionally, I have a round, raised lesion on the sole of my foot that feels slightly hard with a bit of black in the center.
If I ignore it, it keeps growing larger and becomes painful.
I have seen two doctors about this.
The first doctor prescribed a corrosive solution, claiming it was a corn, but it was ineffective.
The second doctor took a quick look and said it was a viral infection that required cryotherapy.
However, the treatment only lasted less than a month before another lesion appeared in the same spot, and I now have three more on the other foot.
The cryotherapy was extremely painful and has affected my ability to work (I am unable to walk).

Could you please advise if there are any other less painful treatment options available? I would greatly appreciate your help.
Best regards,
SNINA

snina, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2001/06/07

Dr. Zheng Lizhen reply Dermatology

1.
The dermatitis caused by unstable weather can improve with medication and topical treatments.
It is advisable to consult a dermatologist for treatment, but to completely resolve the issue, one may have to rely on the weather conditions.

2.
Warts are a viral infection that is contagious, leading to an increase in their number.
Treatment options include: (1) Cryotherapy to remove the existing warts, typically performed every two weeks until the root is completely eradicated.
(2) Salicylic acid preparations: these soften the keratin and must be applied daily, making them a suitable choice for those who are pain-averse.
(3) Some medications can enhance immunity against the virus, such as Decaris or Tagamet (the latter is not covered by health insurance).
(4) Certain foods can also boost immunity against the virus, such as Job's tears.

Reply Date: 2001/06/07

More Info

Dear Snina,
Thank you for reaching out regarding your skin concerns. It sounds like you are dealing with two distinct issues: skin allergies and warts. Let's address each of these problems separately and discuss potential treatments.

Skin Allergies
The red spots and itching you are experiencing from your ankles to your thighs could indeed be a manifestation of an allergic reaction, possibly exacerbated by fluctuating weather conditions. Allergic reactions can be triggered by various factors, including environmental allergens, irritants, or even changes in temperature and humidity.
To manage your skin allergies effectively, consider the following steps:
1. Identify Triggers: Keeping a diary of your symptoms and any potential triggers (such as foods, fabrics, or environmental factors) can help you identify what might be causing your allergic reactions.

2. Topical Treatments: Over-the-counter hydrocortisone creams can help reduce inflammation and itching. If your symptoms are severe, a dermatologist may prescribe a stronger topical corticosteroid.

3. Antihistamines: Oral antihistamines can be effective in reducing itching and discomfort associated with allergic reactions. These medications can help alleviate symptoms, especially if taken before exposure to known allergens.

4. Moisturizers: Regularly applying a fragrance-free moisturizer can help maintain skin hydration and barrier function, which is crucial in managing allergic skin conditions.

5. Avoid Irritants: Be mindful of the products you use on your skin, including soaps, detergents, and skincare products. Opt for hypoallergenic and fragrance-free options.

6. Consult a Dermatologist: If your symptoms persist or worsen, it may be beneficial to see a dermatologist for further evaluation and potential allergy testing.

Warts
Regarding the round, raised growths on your feet, it sounds like you may be dealing with plantar warts, which are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). These warts can be painful and may recur even after treatment. Here are some alternative treatment options you might consider:
1. Salicylic Acid: Over-the-counter treatments containing salicylic acid can help dissolve the wart over time. This method requires consistent application and patience, as it may take several weeks to see results.

2. Duct Tape Method: Some people find success using duct tape to cover the wart for several days, then removing it and gently filing the wart down. This method may stimulate the immune system to fight the virus.

3. Laser Therapy: If you are looking for a less painful alternative to cryotherapy (freezing), laser therapy can be effective in destroying the wart tissue. This method is usually performed by a dermatologist.

4. Immunotherapy: In some cases, treatments that stimulate the immune system to fight the wart virus may be recommended. This could involve topical medications or injections.

5. Electrosurgery: This technique uses electrical currents to remove warts and may be less painful than cryotherapy for some patients.

6. Consult a Specialist: Since you have already seen two doctors without satisfactory results, consider seeking a third opinion from a dermatologist who specializes in skin lesions. They may have additional insights or treatment options that could be more effective for your situation.

Conclusion
Managing skin allergies and warts can be challenging, but with the right approach, you can find relief. It's essential to be patient and persistent with treatments, as some conditions may take time to improve. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment to ensure it is appropriate for your specific situation.

I hope this information helps you on your journey to better skin health. If you have any further questions or concerns, please feel free to reach out.

Best wishes for your health and comfort.

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