Heloma

Know the basics

What is heloma?

Heloma, or corn, refers to the thickened layers of skin. They often form when the skin is frequently under pressure. You usually have heloma on the feet or hands. Sometimes they cause pain even when they are small.

How common is heloma?

Heloma is a common condition. It can affect patients at any age. It can be managed by reducing your risk factors. Please discuss with your doctor for further information.

Know the symptoms

What are the symptoms of heloma?

The common symptoms of heloma are:

• Thickened layers of skin;
• Hardened bumps;
• Feeling of pain of tenderness under the skin;
• Dry or waxy skin.

There may be some symptoms not listed above. If you have any concerns about a symptom, please consult your doctor.

When should I see my doctor?

If you notice any feeling of pain or inflammation in the heloma, please consult with your doctor. If you are a diabetic and you have corns, you should contact you doctor soon because you are in a greater risk of developing further complications. Everyone’s body acts differently. It is always best to discuss with your doctor what is best for your situation.

Know the causes

What causes heloma?

The main cause of heloma is from the increasing of friction or pressure affecting the feet or hands. There are some possible causes:

• Wearing too tight shoes can compress your foot while too loose shoes will make you have to rub the shoes causing heloma.
• Wearing shoes without socks will increase the touching between your feet and shoes and friction.
• Repeatedly actions such as playing instruments or even writing can cause heloma.

Know the risk factors

What increases my risk for heloma?

There are many risk factors for heloma, such as:

• Bunion is a bump located on the joint of your big toe.
• Hammertoe is a defect causing your curled toes.
• Foot deformities can occur as a bone spur.
• Using tools or playing instruments without hand protection can cause heloma.
• Wearing unfitting shoes.

Understand the diagnosis & treatment

The information provided is not a substitute for any medical advice. ALWAYS consult with your doctor for more information.

How is heloma diagnosed?

You doctor can diagnose heloma by:

• Physical exam: your doctor will exam your foot or hand anatomy and check if the heloma is caused by other deformities such as warts or cysts.
• X-ray: an X-ray can help your doctor to have a closer look at your foot or hand to detect the cause of your heloma.

How is heloma treated?

Heloma can be managed by reducing the friction and pressure on the foot or hand. You can wear protective gear for your hand, socks, and more fitting shoes.

If the heloma causes more pain and discomfort, your doctor may offer you some following treatments:

• Remove the skin with heloma.
• Callus–removing medications: they can be in the form of over–the–counter pills, gel or skin creams.
• Corn removal plaster: a felt ring with a core of salicylic acid that can erode the thickened skin.
• Anti – infection medications such as an antibiotic ointment will avoid the developing of infections.
• Foot orthotics with deformities prevent corns from returning.
• Surgery if no treatment above works.

Lifestyle changes & home remedies

What are some lifestyle changes or home remedies that can help me manage heloma?

The following lifestyles and home remedies might help you cope with heloma:

• Protect the heloma area from developing with a foot pad;
• Soak your hand or feet to soften the heloma;
• Use a bath stone to gently rub the heloma but be careful because sharp rubbing can cause infection;
• Moisturize the skin;
• Wear fitting shoes and socks.

If you have any questions, please consult with your doctor to better understand the best solution for you.

Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.