Warts

What are Warts?

Warts are skin infections caused by HPV (human papillomavirus). The skin-colored bumps are formed over the skin due to the infection. They are contagious in nature and can be painful in some situations. While warts are not dangerous or harmful, they can be embarrassing.

Causes:

• Interaction with contaminated surfaces
• Contact with someone having warts as they are contagious
• Shaving
• Cuticle picking
• Genital warts are caused by sexual intercourse

Significant problems you might face because of warts:

Cervical cancer, anal cancer, and oropharyngeal cancer are linked with HPV, so it is important to take the HPV vaccine. Clusters on hands, body, and face can appear on people with weak immune systems.

Types:

• Common warts: Usually appear on toes, knees, and fingers.
• Plantar warts: Appear on the soles of feet.
• Flat warts: Also called juvenile warts, they usually appear on the face, arms, and thighs.
• Filiform warts: Appear on the neck, under the chin, around the mouth, or nose.
• Periungual warts: Appear around toenails and fingernails.
• Genital warts: Appear on parts like the anus or cervical. They can lead to cancer in some cases.

Treatment Options:

At-home treatment: They usually go away on their own, but you can try treating them at home with Compound W®, containing salicylic acid.

Freezing treatment: These are sprays that are a mixture of dimethyl ether and propane. They kill the skin and allow warts to fade away. However, sprays are not capable of removing all warts.

Patches containing salicylic acid: You can use these patches every day. Soak warts in water for 15 minutes for best results.

Visit us at Skin Alive Clinic to know the best treatment for your skin.