DEAR DR. GOTT: I recently read your column about the person suffering from plantar warts. My son had a number these (large and small) a few years ago. I took him to a dermatologist, who looked at his foot and told us to use over-the-counter Duofilm. He said to apply the product twice a day, and every three days either scrape or pumice the wart and start the process over again. A month later, I took my son back, and the doctor declared the process was working and to keep at it. He then proceeded to charge us $80 for the five-minute visit. The doctor didn’t even do anything! I would like to say — save your money, folks, and do the removal yourself.
DEAR READER: Unfortunately, this situation is becoming more and more common. As you saw in my last column and in the above letter, many readers are frequently dissatisfied with the care they get from a doctor for common and plantar warts, not to mention how painful some of the procedures can be.
Remember, readers, that warts are caused by a virus and are commonly acquired by touching other warts (such as those on the hands), or by being barefoot in public showers or pool areas. Simple precautions such as hand sanitizers, wearing flips flops or water shoes, and using warm soap and water can help prevent outbreaks.
