Warts

Warts, also known as verrucas, are very common and are caused by a virus called the human papilloma virus (HPV).

They are rough growths, or tumors which have a “cauliflower” look to them. They are most commonly found on the hands, feet and joints (elbows, knees).

Somebody could have the virus without knowing as it can take a wart 12 months to form.

There are close to 100 different strands of the human papilloma virus.

Are they contagious?Yes, they are contagious. They can be caught by using a towel, clothing, shoes, etc. of an infected person.

You can also catch them on your feet from the shower at your gym.

This is more so if you have any open sores on your skin as it allows the virus to get into your system.

Will they go away on their own?They could disappear on their own. However, this could take months or years. Keep in mind that scratching the wart and then later scratching another surface of your skin could resolve in a new wart. It is really best to treat them as soon as possible to avoid spreading on yourself or others.

Types

Common: These are usually flesh colored, white, tan or pink. They most commonly appear on hands, fingers, near fingernails, etc

They are rough to the touch and look “grainy”

Flat: These are more common in children and teens more so than adults. These are smaller and smoother than common ones and most often appear on the legs , arms and face.

Plantar:These most often appear on the souls of your feet and on your toes. They can be very painful as they may constantly rub on your socks and shoes. It can feel as if you ware walking with a pebble in your shoe.

They have brown lumps with black dots in them which are actually very small clotted blood vessels. They appear flesh or light brown in color. They may be single, or appear in clumps which look like a thick patch of skin.

Genital: Also called venereal warts, they can be small, flat, flesh colored bumps as well as tiny “cauliflower” looking bumps. These can grow in the genital area for both men and women, as well as near the anus.

At times they can be so small that you cannot see them. They may also go unnoticed as they may grow in the vagina or anal canal.

Untreated they can cause cancer of the vulva, vagina, anus or penis.

Removing these warts is not enough. As it is a viral infection, precautions must be taken to ensure they do not reappear.

Boosting your immune system is very helpful for the prevention of them returning.

Treatment

Remove Warts please follow this link.

It includes information on the following methods:

FreezingSurgical removalLaser removalDuct Tape RemovalNatural Remedies