What causes warts and how do I get rid of them?

Question: What causes warts and how do I get rid of them?

Answer: Warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), which enters the skin through small cuts or scratches. They’re more common in children, but anyone can get them.

People with a weak immune system or those who are in close contact with someone who has warts are more at risk of getting warts. While there’s no foolproof way to prevent warts, you can reduce your risk by practicing good hygiene and avoiding contact.

The most common types of warts are:

· Common warts. These grow on the fingers, elbows, knees, or the face.
· Filiform warts. These often appear on eyelids, lips, or the face or neck.
· Flat warts. These form in clusters on the face, backs of the hands, or legs.
· Genital warts. These can appear on or around the genitals.
· Periungual warts. These appear as thickened skin around the nails.
· Plantar and palmar warts. These are warts on the soles of the feet (plantar) or the palms of the hands (palmar).

It is important to know that warts can go away without treatment; however, it can take years and new ones often develop nearby. The treatment of warts depends on how long they have been in place, where they are on the body, what type of wart they are, and how many of them are present.

Wart treatment can wait until the child is older, however we do suggest treatment for plantar warts on the bottom of the foot as they can cause pressure and pain with walking.

Treatment at home can include over-the-counter products and home remedies. When using over the counter products it is recommended to follow the guidelines on the product.

Healthcare professionals have additional treatment methods available including liquid nitrogen and squaric acid. Sometimes it may be necessary to surgically remove the wart in minor procedure.

Treatment may take weeks or months. Some treatment methods may work for one person but not another. Some treatment methods may cause pain and burning in the area treated. Doctors generally start with the least painful methods, especially when treating young children.
After treatment, the warts may grow back or new warts may appear. This is very common.

Remember, if you’re unsure about a growth on your skin or if it’s causing discomfort, it’s always best to consult a healthcare professional.