Verrucas

Verrucas are simply warts that affect the skin on feet, which are caused by the human papilloma virus (HPV). If you are resistant to the virus they will not trouble you. Some people are far more prone than others to get verrucas. 

Verrucas are usually white, circular patches of hard skin, often with a dark centre. They will usually be on the base of your foot. However, verrucas can come in different shapes and sizes. If you think you have one it's best to have it identified by a foot care professional. They are likely to spread and are highly contagious so don’t ignore one, especially if you use public changing rooms or like walking barefoot!

A word of warning to the worriers and the faint-hearted. It's tempting to head to the internet for pictures of medical conditions. In rare and unusual cases verrucas can be surprisingly ugly and prolific. If you think you have one just have it checked, at Cannon Barn - don't Google it!

Your body will deal with a verruca as it does any virus. The speed with which you can fight your verruca will depend on your immune system. There are many ways to treat verrucas from over-the-counter medicines to more unusual methods employed by podiatrists such as acids, silver nitrate, occlusion therapy or cryotherapy – freezing the wart with liquid nitrogen or nitrous oxide gas. Generally, your immune system will get rid of the verrucas over time. If, however, you’re diabetic or have circulation problems, do not self-treat.