Wart Removal at Midwest Express Clinic
Common Warts: Understanding the Basics
Common warts, also known as Verruca vulgaris, are skin growths caused by an infection in the top layer of the skin, typically resulting from human papillomavirus (HPV). It’s important to note that having common warts does not indicate the presence of the sexually-transmitted infection (STI) responsible for genital warts. HPV encompasses various strains, and common warts are usually spread through person-to-person contact or contact with contaminated objects like towels or gym equipment.
Recognizing Common Warts:
- Common warts often appear fleshy, grainy, and small.
- They can be white, pink, or tan in color.
- The texture is rough to the touch.
- They are usually raised above the skin’s surface and are mostly round.
- Common warts are typically painless unless located on the bottom of the foot, where they are known as plantar warts.
Plantar Warts: A Closer Look
What are Plantar Warts?
Plantar warts differ from common warts in that they grow inward, creating hard and thick growths on the bottom of the foot or at the base of the toes. These warts are often contracted indirectly, such as by using communal showers without protective footwear or sharing shoes with others. In some cases, plantar warts may contain “black seeds,” which are clotted blood vessels.
Identifying Plantar Warts:
- Plantar warts are typically hard and thick, with a flat surface.
- They may include “black seeds” within them.
- People with plantar warts may experience pain or tenderness while walking or running.
Treatment Options at Midwest Express Clinic
- Medication (Prescription strength salicylic acid)
- Freezing (Cryotherapy)
- Specific treatment regimens for genital warts
When to Seek Treatment
If you’re considering wart removal or have questions about your warts, don’t hesitate to consult with our medical providers. You can visit any of our Midwest Express Clinic urgent care locations for guidance and treatment. Your well-being is our priority, and we are here to assist you.

Frequently Asked Questions
What are common warts, and how do they differ from genital warts?
How are common warts typically spread?
What are the characteristics of common warts?
- They can be fleshy, grainy, and small.
- Colors may vary and include white, pink, or tan.
- They have a rough texture.
- Common warts are usually raised above the skin and are typically round in shape.
- In most cases, they are painless.
What are plantar warts, and how are they contracted?
What are the key characteristics of plantar warts?
- They are hard and thick, with a flat surface.
- Some plantar warts may include “black seeds.”
- People with plantar warts may experience pain or tenderness while walking or running.
What wart removal treatments are available at Midwest Express Clinic?
- Medication (Prescription strength salicylic acid)
- Freezing (Cryotherapy)
- Specific treatment regimens for genital warts
When should I seek treatment for common, plantar, or genital warts?
How can I access wart removal services at Midwest Express Clinic?
Do you accept insurance?
Wart removal is available at these locations:
Illinois
Aurora
Blue Island
Bolingbrook
Bourbonnais
Burbank
Calumet Park
Carol Stream
Chicago Ridge
Cicero
Elmhurst on Butterfield
Elmhurst on York Street
Evergreen Park (coming soon)
Lombard
Matteson
Melrose Park
Norridge
Northbrook
Richton Park
River Forest
Skokie
Tinley Park on Harlem
Tinley Park on LaGrange
Westmont
Wheaton
Willowbrook