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 the human papillomavirus (HPV). There are over 100 different types of HPV, and each type causes a different kind of wart. Warts can appear anywhere on the body but are most commonly found on the hands, feet, and face.
Types of warts
There are several types of warts, including:
Common warts: These are rough, raised bumps that often appear on the hands and fingers.
Plantar warts: These warts appear on the soles of the feet and can be painful when walking.
Flat warts: These are small, flat warts that usually appear on the face and forehead.
Genital warts: These are warts that appear in the genital area and are sexually transmitted.
Causes of 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.
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)
Treatments for warts
Warts can often go away on their own without treatment, but if they are causing discomfort or are unsightly, there are several treatments available. These include:
Salicylic acid: This is a common over-the-counter treatment that can be applied to the wart to help dissolve it.
Cryotherapy: This involves freezing the wart with liquid nitrogen.
Laser therapy: This involves using a laser to burn off the wart.
Surgery: In some cases, warts may need to be surgically removed.
Topical creams: These prescription creams can be applied to the wart to help dissolve it.
Prevention of 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
Are warts contagious? Yes, warts are highly contagious and can be spread through direct contact with an infected person or surface.
Can warts be prevented? Yes, the best way to prevent warts is to avoid contact with the HPV virus by keeping hands clean and dry, not sharing personal items, and wearing shoes in public areas.
What is the most effective treatment for warts? The most effective treatment for warts depends on the type and severity of the wart. Over-the-counter treatments such as salicylic acid are often effective, but more severe cases may
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.