Warts - Causes, Symptoms, Prevention - St. Louis
Updated: 5 days ago
Many St. Louisans struggle with warts. Warts are skin growths caused by a viral infection. They are typically benign but can be unsightly and uncomfortable. In this article, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, and treatments of warts.
What are warts?
Warts are caused by certain human papillomavirus (HPV) types. Common skin warts and genital warts differ in location, HPV types, and treatment considerations.
What causes warts?
Warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is highly contagious and can be spread through direct contact with an infected person or surface. Warts are more likely to develop in people with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV or who are taking immunosuppressant drugs.
What are the symptoms of warts?
The symptoms of warts vary depending on the type of wart. Common symptoms include:
Rough, raised bumps on the skin
Pain or discomfort when walking (in the case of plantar warts)
Small, flat bumps on the skin (in the case of flat warts)
Clusters of bumps in the genital area (in the case of genital warts)
How do you prevent warts?
The best way to prevent warts is to avoid contact with the HPV virus. This can be done by:
Avoiding direct contact with an infected person or surface
Keeping hands clean and dry
Not sharing personal items such as towels or razors
Wearing shoes in public areas such as locker rooms and showers
Conclusion
Warts are a common skin condition caused by the human papillomavirus. They can be unsightly and uncomfortable, but there are several treatments available. The best way to prevent warts is to avoid contact with the HPV virus.
FAQs
Common skin warts can spread through contact, and prevention steps can reduce risk without eliminating it. Treatment depends on the site and diagnosis. Salicylic acid and cryotherapy are options for selected common or plantar warts; the EVerT trial below found neither superior at 12 weeks for plantar warts. Do not use over-the-counter wart removers on the face or genitals, or when you are unsure the growth is a wart. Ask a clinician before self-treatment if you have diabetes, poor circulation, or reduced sensation.
Primary study: Cockayne et al., BMJ (2011), EVerT trial. This randomized trial compared salicylic acid with cryotherapy for plantar warts in people aged 12 or older. Neither treatment was superior for clearance at 12 weeks.
If you are having difficulty getting rid of warts, please contact our dermatologists at Mid-County Dermatology in St. Louis, MO. Call us at 314-994-0200 to schedule your visit. Schedule online or call 314-994-0200 to schedule.
Related reading
This article is for general educational purposes only and is not medical advice. If you have questions or concerns about your skin, talk with one of our dermatologists at Mid-County Dermatology.
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