Post-Cryotherapy: Blisters and Bruising After Wart Treatment - Dermatology

Share to:

Cryotherapy for viral warts, blisters, and bruising?


I would like to ask the doctor about the cryotherapy I underwent last week for a viral wart.
After a week and two days, the blister has started to shrink, but it has also begun to darken (a bruised red color) and feels strange when touched.
Is this normal? Thank you, doctor.
^^

Zhenzhen, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/01/15

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology


It is normal.

Reply Date: 2016/01/15

More Info


After undergoing cryotherapy for the treatment of warts, it is not uncommon to experience some side effects such as blisters and bruising. Cryotherapy works by freezing the wart tissue, which causes the cells to die and eventually fall off. This process can lead to localized inflammation and tissue damage, resulting in the formation of blisters and discoloration of the skin.

In your case, the appearance of blisters after a week and two days post-treatment is a typical response to cryotherapy. The blisters are a result of the skin's reaction to the freezing process, and they serve as a protective barrier while the underlying tissue heals. The fact that the blisters are starting to shrink is a positive sign, indicating that the healing process is underway.

The deepening color of the blisters, turning to a reddish or purplish hue, can be attributed to bruising. This occurs when small blood vessels are damaged during the freezing process, leading to localized bleeding under the skin. This discoloration is generally temporary and should gradually fade as the area heals. However, if the bruising is accompanied by severe pain, increased swelling, or signs of infection (such as pus or fever), it would be advisable to seek medical attention.

The strange sensation you are experiencing when touching the area is also not unusual. After cryotherapy, the nerve endings in the treated area may be more sensitive as they recover from the trauma of the freezing. This heightened sensitivity can lead to unusual sensations, which should subside as the skin heals.

In summary, the symptoms you are experiencing—blisters, bruising, and altered sensations—are generally normal after cryotherapy for warts. It is essential to keep the area clean and protected to prevent infection. If you notice any concerning changes or if your symptoms worsen, do not hesitate to contact your healthcare provider for further evaluation and guidance. They can provide you with specific advice tailored to your situation and ensure that your recovery progresses smoothly.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Blisters and Bruising After Cryotherapy for Warts

Is it normal to have blisters with bruising after cryotherapy? How many days will it take for them to go away? If I accidentally bump them while writing, will they burst? Thank you.


Dr. Li Yufen reply Dermatology
Hello: Cryotherapy may cause skin reactions similar to frostbite, which can result in blisters or hematomas. The time required for blisters to scab over varies depending on the size of the blister or individual constitution, and it may take a week or more. It is recommended to ke...

[Read More] Understanding Blisters and Bruising After Cryotherapy for Warts


Understanding Post-Cryotherapy Swelling of Hand Warts

Hello doctor, I would like to ask if swelling after cryotherapy for warts on both hands is a normal phenomenon.


Dr. Li Yufen reply Dermatology
Hello: After cryotherapy with liquid nitrogen, the surrounding skin may experience swelling similar to frostbite, and there may even be the formation of blisters. Thank you!

[Read More] Understanding Post-Cryotherapy Swelling of Hand Warts


Understanding Cryotherapy: What to Expect After Skin Wart Removal

I had two warts on my left hand eight years ago, and three days ago I underwent cryotherapy. The blister has grown larger and is swollen and painful, so I punctured it. Since then, it has been swelling up every fifteen minutes, and when I press on the blister (which has so much f...


Dr. Li Yufen reply Dermatology
Hello: After cryotherapy, it is possible to experience a reaction similar to frostbite, resulting in blisters. Generally, draining the contents of the blisters will lead to improvement. However, if the skin symptoms do not improve or worsen, you should return for a follow-up appo...

[Read More] Understanding Cryotherapy: What to Expect After Skin Wart Removal


How to Treat Blisters After Cryotherapy for Warts?

Hello! After cryotherapy for warts, I developed blisters around the area. I went to a dermatology clinic a few days ago to remove the wart, but it hasn't fallen off yet, and now there are blisters forming around it. I'm really worried and would like to know how to treat...


Dr. Chen Yiying reply Dermatology
Hello: In response to your question, after the treatment of warts, blisters may form following cryotherapy. Please do not attempt to break them yourself. You can apply antibiotic ointment for protection and allow them to naturally scab and fall off. If you are concerned, you may ...

[Read More] How to Treat Blisters After Cryotherapy for Warts?


Related FAQ

Cryotherapy

(Dermatology)

Sweat Blisters

(Dermatology)

Bruising

(Dermatology)

Winter Itch

(Dermatology)

Herpes Zoster

(Dermatology)

Flat Warts

(Dermatology)

Athlete'S Foot

(Dermatology)

Medication Side Effects

(Dermatology)

Seborrheic Dermatitis

(Dermatology)

Viral Warts

(Urology)