Warts

Warts are small, bumpy skin growths that occur when the HPV infects the top layer of skin. There are several types of warts, each with distinct characteristics:

• Common Warts: Usually found on fingers and hands, these warts have a rough, grainy appearance and can be grayish-brown.
• Plantar Warts: Located on the soles of the feet, these warts can be painful due to their position and the pressure from walking.
• Flat Warts: Smaller and smoother, these warts often appear in large numbers on the face, neck, hands, and wrists.
• Filiform Warts: These are spiny and typically grow around the mouth, eyes, and nose.
• Periungual Warts: These are found under and around the toenails and fingernails. They can be painful and affect nail growth.
• Condyloma (genital warts): These warts occur in the genital and anal areas, appearing as small, flesh-colored, or gray growths that can cluster together, resembling a cauliflower-like shape. They are one of the most common sexually transmitted infections.

Warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), which has more than 100 different strains. Not all HPV strains cause warts, but those that can be transmitted through direct contact with a wart or something that touched a wart, such as towels or surfaces.

Individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS or who have had organ transplants, are more susceptible to developing warts. Additionally, minor skin injuries, wet or damaged skin, and frequent contact with rough surfaces can increase the risk of wart formation.

Genital warts are transmitted through sexual contact with an infected person. This includes vaginal, anal, and oral sex. It is important to note that HPV can be spread even when the infected person shows no signs or symptoms.

Most warts eventually disappear on their own, but many people choose to treat them due to their infectious nature, discomfort, pain, or cosmetic reasons. Warts are stubborn growths that often take many months and regular visits to the dermatologist to resolve. Treatment options include:

• Topical treatments: Over-the-counter treatments containing salicylic acid can help remove warts. Prescription-strength topical treatments may also be used.
• Cryotherapy: This involves freezing the wart with liquid nitrogen, causing it to blister and eventually fall off.
• Cantharidin: This chemical is applied to the wart, causing it to blister and eventually fall off.
• Surgical removal: In some cases, minor surgery may be necessary to remove the wart.
• Immunotherapy: This treatment stimulates the immune system to fight the wart-causing virus.
• Antiviral medications: Antiviral medications can help reduce symptoms and prevent recurrence.

Preventing warts involves reducing exposure to the HPV virus and maintaining good skin care practices. Here are some tips:

• Avoid direct contact: Do not touch warts on yourself or others. If you have warts, keep them covered with a bandage.
• Do not share personal items: Avoid sharing towels, razors, socks, or shoes with others, especially in public places.
• Keep skin clean and dry: Moist environments can promote wart growth, so keep your skin dry and clean.
• Wear protective footwear: To avoid contact with contaminated surfaces, wear flip-flops or waterproof sandals in public showers, pools, and locker rooms.
• Avoid biting nails or cuticles: This can create openings in the skin where the virus can enter.
• Boost your immune system: To support your immune system, maintain a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet, regular exercise, and adequate sleep.
• Practice safe sex: Use condoms during sexual activity to reduce the risk of contracting genital warts. Regular screenings and HPV vaccinations are also recommended.

You should seek professional medical advice and contact a dermatologist if:

• The wart is painful, changes in appearance, or bleeds.
• You have multiple warts, or they spread rapidly.
• Over-the-counter treatments have been ineffective.
• The wart interferes with daily activities.
• You have a weakened immune system or underlying health conditions.
• You suspect you have genital warts or any unusual growths in the genital area.