Overview
Warts are small, non-cancerous growths on the skin caused by the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV). There are several types of warts, and they can appear on
different parts of the body. Common warts typically develop on the hands and
fingers, but they can also occur on other areas such as the knees and elbows.
Plantar warts are found on the soles of the feet, and genital warts are located
in the genital and anal areas.
Causes
Warts are contagious and can spread through direct skin-to-skin contact or
by touching surfaces that have the virus. They are more common in children and
people with weakened immune systems. Most warts are harmless and may go away on
their own, but some may persist or cause discomfort.
The virus spreads through:
Direct contact with an infected person.Touching a wart and then touching another part of the body.Sharing objects or clothes with an infected person.Some strains of HPV are acquired through sexual contact, but most forms spread through casual skin contact.Plantar Warts:
These warts appear on the soles of the feet and can be painful due to pressure from walking or standing. They often have a callus-like appearance with tiny black dots (clotted blood vessels) within them. Plantar warts are usually flat and grow inward, making them uncomfortable to walk on.
Common Warts:
These are the most typical warts found on hands, fingers, and around the nails. They have a rough, grainy texture and may resemble cauliflower. Common warts often appear near nail cuticles or on the knuckles.
Flat Warts: These warts are small and flat, often found on the face, neck, or legs. They can be numerous and have a smooth surface. Flat warts are more common in children and adolescents.
Filiform Warts: Filiform warts are thread-like and tend to grow around the mouth, nose, or eyelids. They have a flesh-colored appearance and can be quite noticeable.
Genital Warts: These warts occur in the genital and anal areas. They are usually soft, moist, and flesh-colored. Genital warts are sexually transmitted and caused by specific strains of HPV.
Subungual and Periungual Warts: These warts appear under or around the fingernails. They can distort the nail shape and cause discomfort. Subungual warts grow upward from the nail bed.
Symptoms
Small, rough bumps: Warts often appear as small, raised bumps on the skin. They may have a rough texture, similar to a callus.Skin-colored or slightly darker: Warts can be flesh-colored, white, pink, or slightly darker than the surrounding skin.Clusters: Warts may appear singly or in clusters. When they occur in clusters, they're sometimes called "mosaic warts."Rough texture: Warts can feel rough to the touch, like a small pebble embedded in the skin.Pain or tenderness: Depending on their location and size, warts can be painful or tender, especially if they develop on areas of the body that experience pressure or friction, such as the feet (plantar warts).Black dots: Some warts have tiny black dots within them, which are actually small blood vessels that have clotted.
Treatment: Modern Medicine
Over-the-counter treatments: Non-prescription topical treatments containing salicylic acid or freezing agents can be applied at home.Prescription medications: Stronger medications, such as those containing higher concentrations of salicylic acid, can be prescribed by a healthcare professional.Cryotherapy: Freezing the wart with liquid nitrogen to destroy the infected tissue.Laser therapy: Using lasers to remove or destroy the wart.Surgical removal: Cutting out the wart under local anesthesia.Salicylic acid: Over-the-counter treatments containing salicylic acid are often used to treat warts. These products come in various forms such as liquids, gels, pads, and plasters. Salicylic acid works by gradually breaking down the layers of the wart.
Treatment: Traditional Medicine
Duct tape occlusion: Some people use duct tape to cover the wart for several days at a time. The theory behind this method is that it may stimulate the body's immune response to attack the wart.Apple cider vinegar: Applying apple cider vinegar to the wart may help soften the skin and kill the virus. This method usually involves soaking a cotton ball in vinegar and securing it over the wart with a bandage.Garlic: Crushed garlic can be applied directly to the wart and covered with a bandage. Garlic contains compounds that may have antiviral properties.Banana peel: Some individuals claim that placing a
piece of banana peel over the wart and securing it with a bandage can
help eliminate the wart over time.
Caution
Common
factors that increase the risk of developing warts include:
Direct contact: Touching someone else's
warts or surfaces that have been in contact with the virus.Weakened immune system: Individuals with a weakened
immune system, such as those with HIV or undergoing immunosuppressive
treatments, are more susceptible.Cuts or scratches: Warts are more likely to
develop on areas of the skin that have cuts or scratches.Consult a Healthcare Professional: Before trying any treatment, consult a doctor or dermatologist. They can assess the type of wart, its location, and recommend appropriate treatments. Some warts, especially genital warts, require professional evaluation and management.Avoid Self-Diagnosis: Not all skin growths are warts. Some may be moles, skin tags, or other conditions. Self-diagnosis can lead to incorrect treatment and potential harm.Be Patient: Warts can take time to resolve. Even with treatments, it may take weeks or months. Avoid aggressive measures that could damage healthy skin.Follow Instructions Carefully: Whether using OTC products or natural remedies, follow instructions meticulously. Overuse or misuse can cause skin irritation or complications.Avoid Picking or Scratching: Picking at warts can spread the virus to other areas of your skin or to other people. Keep the area clean and avoid touching it unnecessarily.Monitor for Allergic Reactions: Some treatments may cause skin irritation or allergic reactions. If you notice redness, swelling, or discomfort, discontinue use and seek medical advice.Protect Sensitive Areas: Be cautious when treating warts on sensitive skin (face, genitals, etc.).Seek professional guidance for these areas.Remember, everyone’s skin reacts differently, so what works for one person may not work for another. If in doubt, seek professional advice to ensure safe and effective wart management .
Prevention
To
prevent the spread of warts and reduce the risk of developing them, consider
the following measures:
Practice good hygiene: Wash hands regularly and
avoid touching warts on yourself or others.Keep skin dry and clean: Moist environments can
facilitate the spread of the virus.Avoid walking barefoot in
public places:
Especially in damp areas like communal showers or swimming pool decks.Don't pick at warts: This can spread the virus
to other areas of the body.Boost your immune system: Maintain a healthy
lifestyle with a balanced diet, regular exercise, and adequate sleep.
Nalamaree Team
