Warts are common, benign skin growths caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). They can appear on various parts of the body and may cause discomfort or cosmetic concerns. Cryotherapy, a treatment involving freezing wart tissue, is a widely used removal approach. This article explains the process and typical timeline for wart resolution.
The Freezing Process and Immediate Aftermath
Cryotherapy involves applying a very cold substance, typically liquid nitrogen, to the wart. This freezes wart cells, damaging and destroying them. Liquid nitrogen is usually applied for 10 to 20 seconds using a spray gun, cotton swab, or metal probe.
Immediately after the procedure, the treated area often turns white, then becomes red and may swell. Patients commonly experience a stinging, burning, or tingling sensation lasting a few minutes to 15 minutes. This discomfort is normal.
Within hours to 24 hours after treatment, a blister typically forms around the wart. This blister can be clear or blood-filled. Its formation indicates effective freezing and wart tissue damage.
Initial post-treatment care involves keeping the area clean and dry. Do not puncture the blister; it acts as a natural bandage protecting new skin underneath and prevents infection. Mild discomfort can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
Expected Timeline for Wart Resolution
Wart resolution after freezing follows a general timeline, though individual healing varies. Blister formation occurs within 1 to 2 days after cryotherapy. This blister may flatten and dry out within 2 to 3 days.
Following blistering, a scab forms over the treated area within 3 to 7 days. This scab protects underlying skin as it heals and sheds dead wart tissue. The scab will darken and may appear dark red or brown.
Wart detachment, when the scab falls off with dead wart tissue, occurs within 1 to 2 weeks after initial freezing. For larger or thicker warts, this may take up to 3 to 4 weeks. After detachment, the skin underneath may appear pink and sensitive.
Larger or stubborn warts often require multiple cryotherapy sessions for complete removal. Follow-up treatments are spaced every 2 to 4 weeks. This process repeats until the wart is fully resolved.
When to Seek Professional Medical Advice
Consult a doctor or dermatologist if the wart shows no change or continues to grow after several weeks or multiple treatments. This may indicate a different treatment approach or further evaluation.
Signs of infection at the treated site require medical attention. These include increased pain, spreading redness, significant swelling, pus or yellow/brown fluid drainage, or fever. Such symptoms suggest a bacterial infection that may require antibiotics.
Severe or persistent pain not relieved by over-the-counter medication requires medical consultation. If the wart appears gone but then recurs, a healthcare provider can assess the situation and recommend further steps.
Also consult a doctor if you are uncertain about the lesion, such as whether it is a wart. Individuals with warts in sensitive areas (face, genitals), compromised immune systems, or diabetes should consult a doctor to minimize complications.