A small bump on your hand, foot, or another part of the body may be a wart. These rough growths are common and are harmless. Many people wonder why do the appear on the skin. People also try to get rid of them using home remedies. Warts usually go away on their own, but they can also spread to other parts of the body in some cases. This guide helps you understand what causes warts and how to get rid of them.
What Causes Warts and How to Get Rid of Them
Warts are harmless skin growths that appear on hands, feet, face, and other parts. Some disappear without treatment. Other warts become stubborn and can spread to other areas. Several treats are can help remove them if they become problematic.
What are Warts?
Warts are small skin growths caused by a certain type of virus. They appear in different shapes and colors based on where they appear. Some are rough, and others are flat. Warts on the feet may grow inward because of pressure on them. The color of warts can vary from the skin color to brown or darker.
What Causes Warts?
The main cause of warts is human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV has many types and causes various infections in humans. The virus enters the skin if there is a cut or scratch. After entering the skin, the virus activates skin cells to grow faster and form a cover. The cover that forms around the virus develops into a wart.
Warts can spread when the virus comes into contact with other parts. This can happen through:
- Direct skin-to-skin contact
- Touching
- Sharing towels, razors, and other personal items
- Walking barefoot in public places
- Picking or scratching a wart
Do Warts Go Away on Their Own?
They do go away sometimes. The immune system can fight the virus. Many warts disappear in this way, and it can take months. A wart can also be painful and spread. It may affect your appearance due to its location. In such cases, treatment becomes important to get rid of it.
How to Get Rid of Warts
There are different ways to treat warts. The doctor will choose a suitable option after checking the wart condition. The common options include:
Salicylic Acid
- Salicylic acid is one of the most effective treatments for warts. It works by slowly removing the thicker layer of the skin. It is available in products in liquid and gel forms. Treatment usually takes time. You need to use it regularly until the area becomes clear.
Cryotherapy
- This therapy uses extreme cold to destroy the tissue growth. The doctor applies liquid nitrogen to the area. It freezes the tissue to the point that it can easily fall away. Some warts need more sessions for complete removal.
Cantharidin
- Cantharidin is a special liquid that separates warts from the skin. The liquid causes blister formation under the tissue. The wart falls away as the treated area heals. The area may become uncomfortable for a short time.
Prescription Medicines
- A dermatologist may recommend a stronger medicine if the wart becomes stubborn. These medications help remove extra skin cells. The immune system can effectively fight the virus with these medications.
Minor Surgery:
- If non-surgical treatments fail, a doctor may remove it through surgery. Surgical removal becomes useful when warts come back and other treatments do not work.
Can you remove a wart at home?
You should not remove warts using unprofessional methods. Some warts can be treated with over-the-counter products. Salicylic acid is available as liquids and gels that you can use at home. Do not cut or try to dig out the tissue growth. This can damage the healthy tissue beneath and cause infection. Be very careful with home treatments. Ask a doctor before treating the wart yourself.
When Should You See a Doctor?
See a doctor if:
- It is painful or bleeding
- It changes in color, shape, or size
- It keeps coming back
- There are many warts
- Home treatment has failed
FAQs
How long do warts last?
Some warts disappear within months. Others can last for years. The time varies, and there is no fixed duration.
Can I remove a wart?
You should not try to cut off a wart at home. This could lead to serious issues like infections. Always discuss it with a doctor before trying to remove it by yourself.
Book a Consultation at Enfield Royal Clinic Dubai
Get expert wart removal at Enfield Royal Clinic Dubai. We have experienced dermatologists who provide personalized skin treatments. Book your free consultation today if you want to know what causes warts and how to get rid of them.
