Verruca
Verruca Pedis is a virus that works its way into the second layer of skin (Dermal layer). The same virus can also appear on the hands (warts), and can be spread from hand to foot and visa versa.
The clinical appearance of a wart is different to a verruca because the hand is non-weightbearing. Early signs however are the same; the small lines in the skin (the finger print lines) become broken, giving a cauliflower effect. As they mature little black dots are noticeable. These are small blood capillaries and nerves thrown up from the dermis. A wart then becomes raised and swollen. A verruca will become hard and callus will form which can become very painful. They can occur singly or in clusters and can vary considerably in size.
How are they caught?
They are generally transmitted through use of communal showers, swimming pools and sharing towels. When a verruca gets wet it swells, bringing some of the infected skin to the surface. Therefore when walking over non-slip surfaces some of the infected skin can be pulled out and then planted into the next wet foot that comes along. The prevalence in children is higher, probably due to their bare-foot activities and lack of immunity.
Can a verruca suddenly disappear?
Some people have a natural immunity to the virus and so the verrucae do not develop. The virus can lie dormant for up to a year before it is noticeable. Once they are active it normally takes 6-24 months before the body recognises them and kills them. However some people do not develop immunity and the virus becomes well established.
Preventing verrucae
Avoid walking barefoot around swimming pools and communal changing rooms, by wearing flip-flops. Dry your feet thoroughly using a clean towel.
When should they be treated?
There are several forms of treatment; the main ones are laser, cryotherapy (freezing) and acid. The simplest form of treatment is lemon essential oil. It acts as an antivirus therefore destroying the virus without damaging your skin. Apply the oil using a cotton ear bud to the affected area twice daily. You can also consult a homeopath, who can help your body to tackle the virus by boosting your immunity. A chiropodist at the Orchard Clinic can also provide treatment.
Please Note: If you are going to swim or do other barefoot activities keep your verruca covered up, as a courtesy to others.