Summary about Disease
Warts are common skin growths caused by a viral infection, specifically by the human papillomavirus (HPV). They are typically harmless but can be unsightly, uncomfortable, and sometimes painful. Warts can appear on various parts of the body, with common locations being the hands, feet, and genitals. There are different types of warts, each with a slightly different appearance.
Symptoms
Appearance: Warts are typically small, fleshy, grainy bumps on the skin. They can be skin-colored, white, pink, or brown.
Texture: They often have a rough texture, but some can be smooth.
Location: Common warts usually appear on fingers and toes. Plantar warts appear on the soles of the feet and can be painful due to pressure. Flat warts often appear on the face, legs, or arms. Genital warts appear in the genital area.
Pain: Some warts, especially plantar warts, can cause pain or tenderness, especially when standing or walking.
Black dots: Small black dots (often referred to as "seed warts") may be visible on the surface of the wart; these are actually clotted blood vessels.
Causes
Warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). The virus triggers rapid growth of cells on the outer layer of skin. Different strains of HPV cause different types of warts. The virus is spread through direct contact, such as:
Touching a wart on someone else or yourself.
Using contaminated objects, such as towels, razors, or surfaces in public showers.
Skin-to-skin contact (especially with genital warts).
Having cuts or breaks in the skin makes it easier for the virus to enter.
Medicine Used
Several treatments are available for warts, including:
Salicylic Acid: Over-the-counter or prescription creams, gels, or pads containing salicylic acid help dissolve the wart tissue.
Cryotherapy: A doctor freezes the wart off using liquid nitrogen.
Cantharidin: A blistering agent applied by a doctor.
Imiquimod: A cream that stimulates the immune system to fight the virus (often used for genital warts).
Fluorouracil: A topical chemotherapy agent that can be used for resistant warts.
Trichloroacetic Acid (TCA): An acid used by doctors to burn off warts.
Laser Treatment: Used in some cases to destroy the wart tissue.
Surgical Excision: Cutting the wart out (less common).
Is Communicable
Yes, warts are communicable. The HPV virus that causes warts is contagious and can be spread through direct contact with a wart or a contaminated surface.
Precautions
Avoid touching warts: Do not pick at or scratch warts, as this can spread the virus.
Wash your hands frequently: Especially after touching a wart or any surface that may be contaminated.
Keep warts covered: Use a bandage to prevent spreading the virus.
Wear footwear in public showers and pools: Protect your feet from plantar warts.
Do not share personal items: Such as towels, razors, socks, or shoes.
Avoid shaving over warts: This can spread the virus to other areas of the skin.
Clean and cover cuts and scrapes: This helps prevent the virus from entering the skin.
Get vaccinated for HPV: The HPV vaccine protects against some strains of HPV that cause genital warts and certain cancers.
How long does an outbreak last?
The duration of a wart outbreak can vary significantly. Some warts disappear on their own within months, while others may persist for years if left untreated. Treatment can shorten the duration, but it may take several attempts to completely eliminate the wart.
How is it diagnosed?
Warts are usually diagnosed by a visual examination by a doctor or dermatologist. In some cases, a biopsy may be performed to confirm the diagnosis, especially if the growth is unusual in appearance or if there is a concern about other skin conditions.
Timeline of Symptoms
Initial Infection: The HPV virus enters the skin through a cut or break.
Incubation Period: The time between infection and the appearance of a wart can range from several weeks to several months.
Wart Development: A small, painless bump begins to form.
Growth: The wart gradually grows larger and may develop a rough or grainy surface.
Persistence: The wart may remain unchanged for months or years if left untreated.
Resolution: Some warts disappear on their own, while others require treatment to resolve.
Important Considerations
Warts can be stubborn: Treatment may require multiple sessions and patience.
Recurrence is possible: Even after successful treatment, warts can sometimes reappear in the same area or in other locations.
Underlying immune system: A weakened immune system may make individuals more susceptible to wart infections and may affect treatment outcomes.
Genital warts require special attention: Consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment, as some strains of HPV can cause cervical cancer.
Home remedies: While some people try home remedies, it is important to consult a doctor for safe and effective treatment.