What medicine to buy for a corn?

Written by Zhu Zhu

Dermatology

Updated on September 27, 2024

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Corns are a type of skin disease formed due to long-term friction and compression. The cause of corns is often related to standing for long periods or wearing ill-fitting or tight shoes. For treating corns, it is advised to primarily use topical medications, which can be directly applied or used as a corn plaster. Besides topical creams, some physical treatments such as carbon dioxide laser, cryotherapy, and X-ray irradiation can also be used.

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Written by Zhang Da Wei

General Surgery

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The difference between corns and calluses

Corn and calluses have obvious differences, as these two conditions arise from different mechanisms. Corns are what we commonly refer to as ordinary warts, which are caused by viral infections. Such viral infections are typically related directly to a decline in one's immune system, leading to the disease. The usual presentation is a change on the surface of the skin, generally appearing as tumor-like. On the other hand, calluses do not protrude on the surface and are mostly caused by local pressure and other similar factors. This condition has little to do with viral infections. Nevertheless, the treatment methods for these two conditions are quite similar. For example, they can be removed through laser surgery or treated using certain ointments to achieve healing effects. (The use of medications should be guided by a doctor.)

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Written by He Da Wei

Dermatology

47sec

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Why do corns form on the feet?

Corns on the feet are caused by long-term compression or friction, leading to excessive proliferation of the stratum corneum and thickening of the stratum corneum. Corns commonly occur in adults, particularly in women, and are frequently found on pressure-bearing areas such as the feet, soles, the inner edges of the big toe, the outer sides of the little toes, as well as the heels and tips of the toes which are areas of friction and pressure. The skin lesions are clearly defined, either light yellow or deep yellow in color, shaped like a cone with a smooth and slightly raised surface. Because they compress the peripheral nerves in the dermis, walking or when pressure is applied, the pain is quite noticeable.

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Written by Huang Ling Juan

Dermatology

49sec

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At what stage should a corn plaster be considered effective?

When applying corn plaster, it is essential to apply it until the area of the corn turns white, remove the white callus, and then continue to apply the plaster. Keep applying until the surrounding skin no longer turns white, leaving only the protruding corn. Once the root of the corn has also necrotized, it can be pulled out from the root. If there is still pain when pulling out the corn, continue using the medication. When the dead skin on the corn turns white, clean, with clear lines, and the newly exposed tender skin is smooth, clean, with clear lines, and there is no pain when pressed, this condition indicates recovery. Corns generally occur due to prolonged pressure on the foot or wearing tight shoes, causing sustained pressure and friction over time.

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Written by Zhang Da Wei

General Surgery

45sec

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The difference between a corn and a callus.

Corn and calluses actually have fundamental differences. A corn is a type of common wart, which is essentially a viral infection. This type of infection is somewhat similar to plantar warts, usually occurring on the sole of the foot. Although both conditions are more likely to occur on the sole, common warts typically manifest as protruding bumps on the surface, whereas calluses are not protruding and the skin in the affected area is relatively smooth. Thus, one can determine the type of condition based on these surface appearances. However, both conditions share commonalities such as being caused by viral infections. Additionally, common warts generally have a darker color, while calluses are more translucent.

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Written by Huang Ling Juan

Dermatology

53sec

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What will a worsening corn turn into?

Severe deterioration of corns usually affects walking. When corns appear, treatment options include using corn ointment, choosing carbon dioxide laser treatment, or cryotherapy with liquid nitrogen. Corns mainly result from prolonged compression and friction of the soft tissues of the sole, leading to this skin condition and causing localized pain. If corns develop, it is important to rest and avoid standing or walking for long periods. Also, avoid wearing shoes with very hard soles to prevent the recurrence of corns. When dealing with corns, soaking the feet in warm water to promote blood circulation and prevent the thickening of the skin can be beneficial. Diet-wise, it is advisable to choose low-fat foods.