We’ve all heard about plantar warts – these lesions are quite common. Although they may seem irrelevant, we must not overlook the pain they can cause. Plantar wart pain at night is one of the things you should be aware of if you suspect you have warts on your feet. Let’s take a look at why this pain occurs and how you can alleviate it.
What Are Plantar Warts and Their Characteristics?
The plantar wart is a benign lesion on the foot caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). Also known as verruca plantaris, the wart on the foot is a small, rough bump usually located on the soles of your feet – but it can also form on top or the sides of your toes. Apart from discoloration, warts present themselves with a black dot in their center which is called a wart seed. Pain and discomfort are the common symptoms of this foot condition, which is why warts often require treatment.
What Are the Causes of Plantar Wart Pain at Night?
Plantar warts, especially warts on the bottom of the foot, tend to be quite painful. You may have noticed that they can hurt at night as well – but why? Here are the main reasons why a wart can hurt you at night.
Pressure on the Wart
When we walk or stand, the wart is “pushed” deeper into the skin due to the pressure – whether from weight-bearing or from tight shoes. This pressure causes an increase in pain, which is often noticed at night when physical activity is over.
Increased Blood Flow
Warts have blood vessels inside them – wart seeds are actually just dried blood clots. Since the wart is a sensitive lesion, picking it or scraping it can easily cause damage and bleeding. Thanks to that, a person will feel severe pain and discomfort.
Nerve Irritation
Since warts grow inwards into the skin (due to the pressure of weight-bearing), at some point, they will press onto sensitive tissues or nerves. This will cause irritation and make the pain even more severe.
How to Manage Plantar Wart Pain at Night?
If you have severe pain at night – or day – it’s best to reach out to your foot doctor and discuss possible treatment options. In the meantime, there are some efficient pain relief methods you can try at home.
Use Cushioning and Padding
Cushioning the wart can help relieve the pressure and, consequently, reduce the pain. One of the best things you can do is place a donut-shaped pad or moleskin patch on your wart. You can use these during the day as well.
Consider Pain Relief Measures
Sometimes cushioning won’t be enough. In that case, you can use some over-the-counter pain medications to relieve the pain. Be sure to read the instructions on the label or consult with a doctor about the adequate doses of the medication.
Consult Your Surgeon in Miami and Get Rid of Painful Plantar Warts
Why struggle with plantar warts? Instead, reach out to an experienced podiatrist in Miami and find out what your treatment options are. Our doctors at Luxe Foot Surgery clinic would be more than happy to answer all your questions and provide you with the best treatment available. Contact us to schedule your free first consultation, or fill out an inquiry form on our website, and we’ll get back to you soon with an appointment.
FAQ
Why Does My Plantar Wart Hurt So Much?
Plantar warts hurt because the pressure when standing or walking pushes them deeper inside the skin. The lesion can also press on nerves, thus causing pain.
Should I Be Worried if My Wart Hurts?
If your plantar wart hurts, don’t ignore it. Be sure to reach out to your foot doctor so that you can get adequate treatment.
References
- Cleveland Clinic – Plantar Warts
- Healthline – Treating and Preventing Plantar Warts
- MyHealth.Alberta – Plantar Warts: Care Instructions
