While SWIFT therapy for plantar warts is generally safe for most patients, some side effects are possible. Fortunately, the plantar wart treatment risks associated with SWIFT are minimal. Marietta podiatrist Dr. Alvin Cowans can help you understand the difference between normal SWIFT therapy side effects, including how to tell the difference between normal signs of healing and rare but possible complications.
Common SWIFT Therapy Side Effects ![SWIFT therapy device]()
During treatment, and for a short while after your session, it is typical to experience temporary:
- Tenderness or mild discomfort
- Warmth
- Redness and swelling or puffiness around the treatment site
- Skin darkening or the formation of blisters that later fall off.
Though rare, complications including infection and scarring are possible. However, these plantar wart treatment risks are less likely to occur following SWIFT therapy than after traditional treatment options.
Recognizing Positive Signs of Healing
The results of your SWIFT therapy will become apparent, unfolding over the course of several weeks. Though initially subtle, signs of wart healing include changes in size or color. The lesion may also flatten out gradually. When you look at the wart, you may notice the appearance of small black dots—that’s good news, since it means healing has begun. The wart may also become crusty, eventually falling off.
In addition to these signs of healing, it’s normal to experience mild soreness for a brief period following treatment. But your skin will remain intact, so you won’t need to worry about caring for a wound or altering your routine of normal activities.
When to Seek Help for SWIFT Therapy Side Effects
If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek immediate medical attention:
- Pain that gets worse, or interferes with your ability to complete daily activities
- Skin that’s warm, extremely puffy, very red or giving off pus
- Bleeding at or near the treatment site.
These symptoms would not be considered normal SWIFT therapy side effects, and could be a sign of infection or other complications. But keep in mind that few patients develop any form of complications related to SWIFT therapy, an option with minimal plantar wart treatment risks. For more information, or to consider this treatment option for your warts, contact our office at 770-727-0614 or follow this link to request an appointment.
