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Contents
  • The Science Behind the Freeze
  • The Cryotherapy Process
  • Pros and Cons
  • Is Cryotherapy Right for You?

Zapping Warts: The Ins and Outs of Cryotherapy

Zapping Warts: The Ins and Outs of Cryotherapy

The Big Freeze

Cryotherapy, or freezing therapy, is a popular treatment for warts that uses extreme cold to destroy the pesky growths. But how does it work, and is it right for you?
Contents
  • The Science Behind the Freeze
  • The Cryotherapy Process
  • Pros and Cons
  • Is Cryotherapy Right for You?

The Science Behind the Freeze

Cryotherapy works by applying liquid nitrogen to the wart, which has a temperature of -196°C (-320.8°F). This extreme cold causes the water in the wart cells to freeze and form ice crystals, which rupture the cell membranes. As the area thaws, the damaged cells die and the body's immune system clears them away, along with the virus causing the wart.

The Cryotherapy Process

During a cryotherapy session, your doctor will apply liquid nitrogen to the wart using a spray or a cotton swab. The area is usually frozen for about 10-20 seconds, depending on the size and location of the wart. You might feel a burning sensation during the treatment, which can be uncomfortable but is usually tolerable. The procedure is often repeated every 1-3 weeks until the wart is gone.
Cryotherapy is a medical procedure that uses extreme cold to destroy wart tissues, typically involving the application of liquid nitrogen.

Pros and Cons

Cryotherapy has several advantages: it's quick, doesn't require anesthesia, and can be effective for many types of warts. However, it can be painful, especially for children, and may require multiple treatments. It can also cause blistering, and in some cases, scarring or changes in skin color, particularly in people with darker skin tones.

Is Cryotherapy Right for You?

Cryotherapy is often recommended for common and plantar warts in older children and adults. It's not usually the first choice for young children due to the pain involved. It's also not recommended for warts on areas with thin skin, like the face, or for people with poor circulation or nerve damage in the area to be treated. Your doctor can help you decide if cryotherapy is the best option for your warts.

FAQs

How effective is cryotherapy?

Success rates vary, but can be up to 70% or higher.

Does cryotherapy hurt?

It can be uncomfortable, but is usually tolerable.

How many treatments are needed?

Often 3-4 treatments, but can vary widely.

Can I do cryotherapy at home?

Over-the-counter options exist, but are less effective than professional treatment.

Are there any risks?

Risks include blistering, infection, and changes in skin color.

The Cold Hard Truth

While cryotherapy can be an effective wart treatment, it's important to weigh the pros and cons and discuss with a healthcare professional.
Curious if cryotherapy might be right for your warts? Ask Doctronic about your treatment options today!
Additional References
  1. Kwok CS, et al. Topical treatments for cutaneous warts. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2012; :CD001781.
  2. Bruggink SC, et al. Cryotherapy with liquid nitrogen versus topical salicylic acid application for cutaneous warts in primary care: randomized controlled trial. CMAJ 2010; 182:1624.
  3. Sterling JC, et al. British Association of Dermatologists' guidelines for the management of cutaneous warts 2014. Br J Dermatol 2014; 171:696.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.