Is It Painful to Freeze Warts?

Skin warts are generally caused by a virus, and are often recurring. A wart can be removed in various ways, and is often treated by freezing it in a doctor’s office. Known as cryosurgery, this method used to freeze warts can be somewhat painful. It can cause a stinging sensation as the area blisters, and then the treated site can become numb. A cold sensation is often followed by a burning feeling after the instrument is removed and the skin warms up again. The device used for the procedure is typically filled with liquid nitrogen.

When a procedure is performed to freeze warts, the area usually becomes red and starts to blister. There can be some pain for up to a few hours. A throbbing sensation is sometimes felt as well. The pain often subsides over time or with over-the-counter medication, unless there are complications. A blister that typically forms after the surgery should be left alone; if it is broken too soon, this can be painful and could also cause an infection.

The common types of warts on the hands and feet can be treated through freezing. Plantar warts on the feet, however, can have trouble healing if excessive pressure is put on them. Warts in other areas might be associated with a different condition, and may possibly require other treatments. After a procedure to freeze warts, it is generally important to let the site heal and the wart to fall off on its own. The wart can otherwise grow back if the virus escapes into the surrounding skin.

Over time, there is little or no pain as the area heals. A person can shower or participate in his or her usual activities. Sometimes a little difference in skin color is seen in the treated area, but there is generally no scarring. In a few cases, multiple treatments may be needed to freeze warts. Some warts can be treated at home with an acidic gel and sticky pad, which can minimize the number of treatments that might be required.

There are other ways of treating warts, such as laser surgery and even ointments that can be applied to the skin. It is important to consult with a physician before surgery to freeze warts. Freezing can be a good option in many cases, but depending on the wart, other treatments may be available. Surgery can sometimes be avoided when there is the need to get rid of a wart.