Plantar warts are a common skin condition caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). They can be painful and unsightly, making it difficult to walk or stand for long periods. If you have plantar warts, you may be wondering what type of doctor treats plantar warts. In this article, we will explore the different types of doctors who can help you with your plantar warts.
What Type of Doctor Treats Plantar Warts?
Podiatrists
Podiatrists are foot doctors who specialize in treating conditions related to the feet and ankles. They are often the first line of defense when it comes to treating plantar warts. Podiatrists use a variety of treatments to remove warts more quickly. These include topical medications, cryotherapy, laser therapy, and minor surgery.
Topical medications are applied directly to the wart and work by destroying the virus that causes it. Cryotherapy involves freezing the wart with liquid nitrogen, which causes it to die and fall off. Laser therapy uses a high-intensity beam of light to destroy the wart tissue. Minor surgery involves cutting out the wart under local anesthesia.
Dermatologists
Dermatologists are medical doctors who specialize in treating skin conditions. They can also treat plantar warts using many of the same methods as podiatrists, including cryotherapy and laser therapy. However, dermatologists may also use other treatments such as chemical peels or immunotherapy.
Chemical peels involve applying a chemical solution to the wart that causes it to peel away from the skin. Immunotherapy involves injecting a substance into the body that stimulates an immune response against the virus that causes warts.
Family Medicine Doctors
Family medicine doctors are primary care physicians who provide comprehensive medical care for individuals and families across all ages and genders. While they may not specialize in treating foot conditions like podiatrists or skin conditions like dermatologists, they can still diagnose and treat plantar warts.
Family medicine doctors may prescribe topical medications or refer patients to a specialist if necessary.
When Should You See a Doctor for Plantar Warts?
If you have plantar warts that are causing pain or discomfort, you should see a doctor for treatment. Additionally, if you have diabetes or another condition that affects circulation or immunity, you should seek medical attention promptly, as these conditions can increase your risk of complications from plantar warts.
In general, if home remedies such as over-the-counter wart treatments do not work after several weeks of use, it is time to see a doctor.
Read: Do Plantar Warts Go Away on Their Own?
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are several types of doctors who can treat plantar warts including podiatrists, dermatologists, and family medicine doctors. The type of doctor you see will depend on your individual needs and preferences.
If you have plantar warts that are causing pain or discomfort, or if home remedies do not work after several weeks of use, it is time to see a doctor for treatment. With proper treatment from a qualified healthcare provider, most people with plantar warts can expect complete resolution within several months.
