On Monday, we took a look at corns on the feet. We discussed what corns are, the causes of them and the symptoms you might expect from different types of corns. If you haven’t read that blog post yet, please do so before you read this one. Today’s blog post is going to continue on from Monday’s post as we have a look at when to seek medical advice, the diagnosis of corns and the treatment options available to you. Our hope with these two articles is that they provide you with answers to all of the questions you have about corns in one place. So, let’s first have a look at when to seek medical advice about your corns.
When to go to the doctors
If you have recently cut the corn on your feet and it has started to bleed, it’s a good idea to make an appointment with your GP. A break in the skin of a corn can lead to infection, so it needs to be sorted out as quickly as possible. You should also seek medical advice if your corn is discharging clear fluid or pus, this is an indication that it might already be infected. If you have heart disease, diabetes or any other circulation problems, you are more likely to get an infection in a condition like corns. If you have any medical condition like these, seek advice straight away.
How do I know I have a corn?
It can be difficult for you alone to determine whether a patch of hard skin is a corn or a wart. It’s important that you go to your doctor so that you can find this out. They will examine your foot and then recommend the best treatment for the condition they find. Do not try any treatments before your doctor has had a look at the problem, warts and corns need very different treatments.
The treatments for corns
A lot of corns will disappear on their own. However, this will only happen if the cause of them stops. Causes like we discussed in Monday’s article, pressure and fiction, must be stopped in order to get rid of your corns. Your doctor will look into the cause of your corn and then recommend a solution for you.
Some of the solutions for getting rid of corns are:
- Moleskin pads – moleskin pads can be used inside your shoes to provide a more comfortable area for the corn and to stop rubbing and friction.
- Corn plasters & liquids – corn plasters and corn removal liquids can be purchased at a pharmacist. However, not everyone can use them so do not use them unless your doctor has recommended you do.
- Antibiotics – oral antibiotics can be used to clear up an infected corn, however, the pus might have to be drained by way of a small incision.
- Urea Cream – this is stronger than the usual cream you can buy off of the shelf. However, it isn’t suitable for everyone so do not use it unless your doctor tells you it’s safe to.
Hopefully, this week’s articles have helped you understand corns on your feet completely. If you have any questions, feel free to give us a call, we will be happy to help.