The Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments of Warts

Warts are small, noncancerous growths on the skin caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). Warts can appear anywhere on the body, but they’re most commonly found on the hands, feet and face. They’re usually harmless and will often go away on their own, but they can be painful and bothersome.

Warts usually first appear as a small, raised bump on the skin. Some warts have a rough, scaly surface, while others are smooth. They can be flesh-colored, white, pink, tan or brown. Some warts even have a pattern of black dots. Warts can grow in clusters or as a single bump.

Most warts don’t cause any problems, but they can be painful or itchy if they’re in an area that’s often bumped or rubbed. Warts can also spread to other parts of the body.

Causes of Warts:

Warts are primarily caused by HPV, a contagious virus that enters the body through small cuts or breaks in the skin. Different types of HPV cause different types of warts. The virus is more likely to enter the skin in areas with cuts or abrasions.

Common Types of Warts:

1. Common Warts (Verruca Vulgaris): Typically appear on the hands, fingers, and around the nails.
2. Plantar Warts: Found on the soles of the feet and can be painful due to pressure from walking.
3. Flat Warts: Smooth, flat-topped lesions often found on the face, arms, or legs.
4. Filiform Warts: Thread-like warts that appear around the mouth, eyes, or neck.
5. Genital Warts: Sexually transmitted warts affecting the genital and anal areas.

Symptoms of Warts:

• Small, Fleshy Bumps: Warts are characterized by raised, flesh-colored growths on the skin.
• Rough Texture: The surface of a wart may be rough and bumpy.
• Pain or Discomfort: Plantar warts, in particular, can cause pain or discomfort when walking.

Treatments for Warts:

1. Topical Treatments:

   • Salicylic Acid: Over-the-counter creams or patches containing salicylic acid help dissolve the wart over time.
   • Prescription Medications: Stronger medications may be prescribed by a healthcare provider.
     
     

2. Cryotherapy:

   • Freezing: Liquid nitrogen is applied to the wart, causing it to freeze and eventually fall off.
     
     

3. Electrosurgery:

   • Burning: Warts can be burned off using an electrical current.
     
     

4. Laser Treatment:

   • Focused Light: Laser therapy targets and destroys the blood vessels feeding the wart.
     
     

5. Surgical Removal:

   • Excision: Cutting the wart out may be necessary for larger or stubborn warts.

Preventive Measures:

• Avoid Touching Warts: Avoid touching warts on yourself or others.
• Keep Skin Dry: Warts thrive in moist environments, so keeping the skin dry can be preventive.
• Protective Measures: Use waterproof bandages in communal areas like swimming pools.

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If you suspect you have warts or need guidance on treatment options, consult with a healthcare professional or dermatologist for personalized advice.

Remember, the information provided is for general knowledge, and professional medical advice should be sought for individual cases.

References:

• American Academy of Dermatology. (n.d.). Warts: Overview. aad.org/public/diseases/a-z/warts-overview
• Mayo Clinic. (2021). Warts. mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/warts/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20371198

Author: Nikita Vishnoi BCA