Warts
Q: What exactly are warts?
A: Warts are non-cancerous growths that appear on the skin, caused by a viral infection, specifically the human papillomavirus (HPV). They are typically rough, raised, and can vary in size and shape. Warts can appear anywhere on the body, but they are most commonly found on the hands, feet, and face.
Q: What are the different types of warts?
A: There are several types of warts, including:
Common Warts (Verruca Vulgaris): Typically appear on the hands, fingers, and elbows. They are rough and raised, often with a cauliflower-like texture.
Plantar Warts: Found on the soles of the feet. They may be painful, especially when walking, and are often flat with a hard, thickened skin surface.
Flat Warts: Smaller and smoother than common warts, they often appear in clusters on the face, arms, or legs.
Filiform Warts: Usually found around the face, especially near the eyes, nose, or mouth. They are long and narrow in shape.
Genital Warts: Caused by specific strains of HPV and appear in the genital and anal areas. These warts require medical attention and can be linked to an increased risk of cervical cancer.
Q: How do warts spread?
A: Warts are contagious and spread through direct contact with an infected person or contaminated surfaces. You can also contract warts by sharing personal items like towels or razors. Skin-to-skin contact, such as shaking hands or touching infected areas, increases the risk of transmission.
Q: What are the treatment options for warts?
A: There are several methods available for treating warts, depending on their location, size, and type. Treatment can often be done at home or by a healthcare professional.
However, when they are present for more than a month and don’t show any signs of regression after the first line treatment such as salicylic acid, one should consult their nearby dermatologist for further treatment. There are some areas in our body which are sensitive to treatment such as when one gets warts over the hands and the feet or in their private areas.
The reason being constant friction of warts over those areas during daily activities.
You should immediately contact a dermatologist near you for the removal of warts in those areas as there are chances of warts becoming infected which may lead to further complications.
Q: Common mistakes done when self-treating warts
A:1. Overusing or incorrectly applying over-the-counter (OTC) wart treatments, such as salicylic acid or cryotherapy for the warts.
2. Inconsistent application of treatments or stopping too soon.
3.Relying on unproven or potentially harmful home remedies like duct tape, vinegar, or essential oils.
4.Trying to treat warts in delicate areas, such as the genitals, face, or near the eyes, without proper guidance.
5.Waiting too long before seeking professional help for persistent or painful warts.
Q: Why choose a personalized treatment for your warts?
A: All warts are not similar, and they may present differently. It is very important to consult a dermatologist before self-medication. Self-diagnosing warts can lead to ineffective treatments.
Generally, common warts are self-limiting and may take a couple of weeks to months to resolve.
Myths VS Facts About Warts
- Myth: Warts are Highly Contagious and Can Spread Through Air
- Fact: While warts are contagious, they do not spread through the air.
- Myth: Warts Are Just a Cosmetic Issue, and They Don’t Need Treatment
- Fact: While warts are not typically harmful, they can cause pain, discomfort, or embarrassment.
- Myth: Warts Will Always Go Away on Their Own
- Fact: While some warts can disappear on their own, many do not, and they may persist for months or even years.
- Myth: Cutting or Removing Warts by Yourself Will Cure Them
- Fact: Trying to cut, scrape, or “pop” a wart yourself is a bad idea. Not only can it cause infection, but it can also spread the virus to other areas of your skin, leading to more warts.
Home-based treatments
In clinic treatments
Cryotherapy
Laser Treatment
Electrosurgery and Curettage
Prescription Medications
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