Warts

Warts are a common skin condition caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). They appear as small, rough growths on the skin and can affect people of all ages. While warts are generally harmless and often resolve on their own, they can be unsightly and cause discomfort. Causes of Warts

Warts are caused by various strains of HPV that infect the top layer of the skin. The virus enters the body through cuts or breaks in the skin and typically thrives in warm and moist environments. Certain factors increase the risk of developing warts, including:

- Direct contact: Coming into contact with someone who has warts or using contaminated objects increases the likelihood of developing warts. - Weakened immune system: Individuals with a weakened immune system are more susceptible to HPV infections, making them more prone to developing warts.

- Skin-to-skin contact: Engaging in activities that involve skin-to-skin contact, such as sexual activity or sports, can increase the risk of contracting HPV and developing warts.

Symptoms of Warts

Warts can manifest in different forms depending on their location and type. Common types of warts include:

1. Common warts: These usually appear on the hands, fingers, or elbows and have a rough texture with a cauliflower-like appearance.
2. Plantar warts: Found on the soles of the feet, these warts may cause discomfort while walking due to pressure exerted on them. 3. Flat warts: These small, smooth warts often appear in clusters on the face, arms, or legs.
4. Genital warts: Transmitted through sexual contact, these warts affect the genital and anal areas and require medical attention.

The symptoms of warts may include:

- Small, flesh-colored or grayish bumps
- Rough or grainy texture
- Pain or tenderness, especially when pressure is applied

Treatment Options

While many warts disappear on their own within a couple of years, some may require treatment. Various treatment options are available to remove warts and reduce their recurrence. These include:

1. Over-the-counter treatments: Non-prescription medications containing salicylic acid can be applied topically to gradually remove warts.
2. Cryotherapy: This procedure involves freezing the wart using liquid nitrogen, causing it to fall off within a week or two.
3. Electrocautery: Warts can be burned off using an electric current. This method is often used for larger or more stubborn warts.
4. Surgical removal: A dermatologist may opt to surgically remove the wart under local anesthesia for more severe cases.
5. Immunotherapy: In certain cases, stimulating the immune system with medications such as imiquimod can help eliminate warts.

Preventing Wart Infections

Taking preventive measures can reduce the risk of contracting HPV and developing warts. Here are some tips for preventing wart infections:

- Avoid touching warts on yourself or others.
- Keep your skin clean and dry, as moist environments facilitate the spread of HPV.
- Wear protective footwear in public areas such as locker rooms and swimming pools.
- Use condoms during sexual activity to reduce the risk of genital wart transmission.

When to Seek Medical Advice

Most warts do not require medical attention and will resolve on their own. However, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional if:

- Warts cause significant pain or discomfort
- Warts persist, multiply, or spread rapidly
- You have concerns about genital warts, as these require specific medical attention

Want To Learn More?

To learn more about the prevention and treatment of warts, talk with an expert-our dermatologist. Call Dr. Uyen Ngoc Mui at Dermatology Associates of Katy, PLLC in Katy, TX. You can reach her in the office by calling (281) 400-1224 +(281) 400-1224, so call today.