Skin Warts - Symptoms, Causes, Treatment, Images

Skin warts are benign (noncancerous) growths that can appear on the skin. Skin warts can develop in anyone. However, children are more prone to develop skin warts. They are generally small and grainy skin growths.

Skin warts are usually harmless and do not cause any discomfort or pain. However, they can be unsightly and can be spread to other parts of the body. Learn about skin warts, their symptoms, types, causes, diagnosis, prevention, medicine, treatment and other important details.

There are several types of skin warts, which are benign (non-cancerous) growths that can appear on the skin. Here are some common types:

1. Common Warts: These are small, hard, and raised bumps that typically appear on the fingers, hands, and sometimes the face. They have a rough surface and can be grey, brown, or flesh-coloured.
2. Plantar Warts: They grow on the soles of the feet and can be painful when pressure is applied. They often have a rough, grainy surface and may be surrounded by hard skin.
3. Flat Warts: These are small and flat, with a smooth surface. They can appear anywhere on the body but are most common on the face, arms, and legs.
4. Filiform Warts: These warts are thin and thread-like, and they often appear on the face, particularly around the mouth, nose, and eyes.
5. Periungual Warts: They grow around or under the nails and can cause the nails to become deformed.
6. Genital Warts: These warts are caused by a different type of human papillomavirus (HPV) than other types of warts, and they can appear on the genital area, anus, or upper thighs. They may be flat or raised and may appear in clusters.

It's important to note that warts are highly contagious, and they can be transmitted through direct contact or by using contaminated objects. If someone has warts, it's important to avoid touching them and to wash their hands frequently to prevent the spread of the infection.

Skin warts are painless and do not cause any discomfort. Many people who have skin warts generally do not have any major signs or symptoms. However, the common signs and symptoms of skin warts include:

1. Small, raised bumps that may be skin-coloured or slightly darker.
2. A rough, grainy texture on the surface of the bump.
3. A flat, smooth area on the top of the bump (called a "wart seed").
4. Itching or tenderness in the area of the bump.
5. Discomfort or pain when located on a weight-bearing body part, such as the sole.

Generally, all kinds of skin warts are caused by certain human papillomavirus (HPV). There are over 150 different types of HPV, and each can cause warts on different body parts. Some types of HPV can cause warts on the skin, while others can cause warts in the genital area or the mouth and throat.

Skin warts can develop on anyone and on anywhere. However, some risk factors put a person at a higher risk of developing skin warts, including

1. Weakened immune system: People with weakened immune systems, such as HIV/AIDS or cancer, may be more prone to developing skin warts.
2. Age: Skin warts are more common in children and young adults.
3. Skin trauma or cuts: Injuries to the skin, such as cuts or scrapes, can increase the risk of developing skin warts.
4. Sharing personal items: Skin warts can be spread through direct contact, so sharing personal items such as towels or razors with someone with a skin wart can increase the risk of infection.
5. Living in close quarters: Skin warts are more common in people who live in close quarters, such as college dormitories or military barracks, where the virus can easily spread from person to person.
6. Occupation: People who work in certain occupations, such as healthcare workers or farmers, may be at increased risk of developing skin warts due to increased exposure to the virus.

It's important to note that not everyone who is exposed to HPV will develop skin warts. Some people are more resistant to the virus, while others may have a stronger immune system to fight the infection.

There can be several reasons for developing skin warts, but it is necessary to prevent them. There are several preventive measures for skin warts that one can undertake to reduce the risk of developing skin warts.

1. Wash hands frequently: This can help prevent the spread of the human papillomavirus (HPV), which is the virus that causes warts.
2. Avoid touching warts: If a person comes into contact with a wart, he/she should wash the hands immediately to prevent the virus from spreading.
3. Protect the skin: Wear protective clothing, such as gloves and shoes, to cover areas of the skin that may come into contact with a surface that may be contaminated with the virus.
4. Avoid biting the nails or picking at cuticles: This can help prevent the virus from entering the body through broken skin.
5. Keep skin moisturised: Dry skin is more prone to cracking, making it easier for the virus to enter the body.
6. Avoid sharing personal items: Avoid sharing items such as towels, razors, and nail clippers, as the virus can spread through these items.
7. Get vaccinated: The HPV vaccine can help protect against certain types of HPV, including some that cause warts.

It's important to note that while these prevention measures can help reduce the risk of developing skin warts, they may not eliminate the risk.

To diagnose skin warts, a healthcare provider will typically be able to physically examine the affected area and ask about the patient's medical history. 

1. The doctor may also use a dermatoscope, a tool with a magnifying lens and a light, to examine the skin wart more closely. 
2. A skin biopsy may be performed to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions.

How to prepare for the doctor's consultation?

1. When preparing for a doctor's consultation for skin warts, the following things can be kept in mind:
2. List down the symptoms one has been experiencing, including the location and duration of the skin warts and any other skin issues.
3. Bring all the previous medical records during the doctor’s consultation.
4. Provide the list of all the medications or supplements the patient currently takes.
5. Ask doubts regarding the condition. Some of the questions that the patient can ask are: 
   1. What caused the growth of the skin warts?
   2. Are skin warts cancerous?
   3. Do I need to do any tests?
   4. Will this skin wart always be there?
   5. Can I have the skin warts removed?
   6. What's involved in removing the skin warts? Are there risks?

Is it likely to return, or am I likely to get another? By preparing for the consultation, you can help the doctor understand your concerns and provide the most effective treatment for your acne.

Skin warts may go away on their own without the need of any treatment. However, if they persist for a long period, they must be treated with medications or removed by surgical procedures. 

There are several types of skin warts, and the treatment options can vary depending on the location, size, type of wart, and the individual's health and preferences. Below are the treatment options for skin warts.

Treatment of Skin Warts without surgery

1. Home Remedies: Some people find that home remedies can help treat skin warts. Some home remedies for skin warts include
   1. Apple cider vinegar: Soak a cotton ball in apple cider vinegar and apply it to the wart. Secure the cotton ball with a bandage and leave it on overnight. Repeat this process for several nights until the wart falls off.
   2. Garlic: Crush a garlic clove and apply it to the wart. Secure it with a bandage and leave it on overnight. Repeat this process for several nights until the wart falls off.
   3. Lemon juice: Apply lemon juice to the wart and let it dry. Do this several times a day until the wart disappears.
   4. Duct tape: Cover the wart with a piece of duct tape. Leave the duct tape for six days, remove it and soak the wart in water. Once the skin is soft, use an emery board or pumice stone to file down the wart gently. Repeat this process until the wart is gone.
2. Homoeopathic Remedies for skin warts: 
   1. Calcarea carbonica: This remedy is made from calcium carbonate and is thought helpful for hard and raised skin warts and people who tend to be overweight and feel chilly.
   2. Thuja occidentalis: This remedy is made from the tree species Thuja occidentalis and is thought to be helpful for large and flat warts and for people who tend to be anxious and easily startled.
   3. Natrum muriaticum: This remedy is made from sodium chloride (table salt) and is thought to be helpful for skin warts that are itchy and inflamed and for people who tend to be sensitive and emotional.
3. Ayurvedic Remedies for skin warts: 
   1. Turmeric: This spice is believed to have anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties and may be applied topically to the skin wart.
   2. Neem: This herb is believed to have antiviral properties and may be applied topically to the skin wart or taken internally as a supplement.
   3. Aloe vera: This plant is believed to have soothing and healing properties and may be applied topically to the skin wart.
4. Topical Medications: Over-the-counter and prescription creams and ointments containing salicylic acid, imiquimod, or other ingredients can be applied to the skin wart.
5. Intralesional Interferon: A type of immunotherapy that involves injecting a form of interferon (a protein produced by the body to fight infections) directly into the skin wart. 
6. Cryotherapy: This treatment involves freezing the wart with liquid nitrogen. This can be done in the doctor's office or with over-the-counter freezing products.

Treatment of Skin Warts with surgery

When skin warts become complicated or symptomatic, surgery is the option recommended by doctors. Following are the surgical procedures done to treat skin warts.

1. Surgical removal: In some cases, a doctor may recommend surgically removing a wart if it is large or resistant to other treatments.
2. Laser therapy: This treatment uses a high-energy laser to destroy the skin wart cells. It is usually only used for skin warts resistant to other treatments.

While they are generally not serious, they can sometimes cause complications if not treated in time. Some potential risks and complications of skin warts include:

1. Pain: Warts can be painful, especially if they are located in an area where there is constant pressure, such as on the bottom of the foot.
2. Infection: Skin warts can become infected if scratched or damaged. This can cause redness, swelling, and pain.
3. Can be contagious: They can spread to other parts of the body or other people. This can be particularly concerning if the warts are located in an area that is difficult to keep clean, such as the genital area.
4. Psychological distress: Some people may feel self-conscious or embarrassed about having warts, which can affect their mental health and quality of life.

When to see a doctor?

Skin warts can be easily confused with other skin conditions, such as moles, freckles, and skin tags, so it is important to have a healthcare professional evaluate the wart:

1. To confirm the diagnosis: A dermatologist can examine the skin and perform tests to confirm whether the patient has a skin wart. 
2. To determine the best treatment option: There are various treatment options available for warts, including over-the-counter medications, prescription medications, and in-office procedures.
3. To address any concerns or questions: If the patient has any questions or concerns about the skin wart, a dermatologist can provide more information and help alleviate any anxiety the patient may be feeling.

Overall, it is a good idea to see a doctor or dermatologist if the patient is concerned about a skin wart or if it is causing discomfort, bleeding, or spreading to other parts of the body.

There is no specific diet that has been proven for skin warts treatment or prevention. However, a healthy, balanced diet that includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can support overall skin health and potentially contribute to the body's ability to fight off infections. It's also important to drink plenty of water to keep the skin hydrated.

Skin warts are harmless, small, benign growths on the skin caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). Warts can be contagious, so it is important to take precautions to avoid spreading them to others. Some treatment options for warts include topical medications, cryotherapy (freezing the wart), and surgical removal. It is also possible to prevent warts by avoiding contact with infected individuals and surfaces and by boosting the immune system.

HexaHealth helps you with the best medical and surgical treatment options at affordable prices. HexaHealth can help you with the best dermatologist to treat skin warts. Contact HexaHealth for the best medical expertise and a hassle-free experience.