Why Is My Plantar Wart Suddenly Itchy and Painful? - Dermatology

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Plantar warts, also known as verrucae plantaris, are benign growths caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) that typically appear on the soles of the feet. They can be quite uncomfortable and may cause pain, especially when pressure is applied, such as during walking or standing. The sudden onset of itching and pain in your plantar wart could be attributed to several factors.

Firstly, the itching sensation you are experiencing may indicate that the wart is undergoing changes as it responds to the treatment you have been using. The topical treatments for warts often work by irritating the skin and stimulating an immune response, which can lead to inflammation and, consequently, itching. This is a common reaction as the body attempts to fight off the virus. However, if the wart is still thick and painful, it may suggest that the treatment has not fully eradicated the virus or the wart tissue.

Pain associated with plantar warts can also arise from the pressure exerted on the wart when walking. If the wart is thickening, it can become more painful as it presses into the underlying tissues of the foot. The pain may also be exacerbated by the formation of calluses around the wart, which can occur as a protective response to the irritation caused by the wart itself.

Another possibility is that the wart has become infected. If you notice increased redness, swelling, or discharge, these could be signs of an infection, which would require medical attention. It’s important to monitor for any signs of infection, as this can complicate the healing process.

Your friend's observation that the wart appears "thick" could indicate that while the wart is responding to treatment, it may still require additional time or a different approach to fully resolve. Warts can be stubborn and may take several weeks or even months to completely disappear, depending on the treatment method used and the individual's immune response.

If the itching and pain persist or worsen, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional, preferably a dermatologist. They can assess the wart and determine whether a different treatment approach is necessary, such as cryotherapy (freezing the wart), laser treatment, or stronger topical medications. Additionally, they can rule out other conditions that may mimic the symptoms of a plantar wart, such as corns, calluses, or other skin lesions.

In summary, while the itching and pain you are experiencing could indicate that the wart is responding to treatment, it is essential to monitor the symptoms closely. If there are any signs of infection or if the symptoms do not improve, seeking medical advice is the best course of action. Remember to avoid picking at the wart, as this can lead to further irritation or infection. Keeping the area clean and protected can also help in the healing process.