Warts are small, rough lumps that appear on the skin, caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). They can develop on various parts of the body and are generally harmless, often resolving without treatment over time.
Symptoms and Types of Warts:
- Common Warts: Usually found on fingers, knuckles, and knees; they have a rough, raised surface.
- Plantar Warts (Verrucas): Develop on the soles of the feet; they may be painful due to pressure from walking.
- Plane (Flat) Warts: Smaller and smoother, these often appear on the face, hands, and legs.
- Filiform Warts: Long and slender, typically forming on the neck or face.
- Periungual Warts: Occur around or under the fingernails and toenails, potentially causing discomfort.
- Genital Warts: Genital warts are a sexually transmitted infection requiring specialized medical attention.
Where do they come from? (transmission:)
Warts are contagious and can spread through:
- Direct Contact: Touching a wart on another person or oneself.
- Indirect Contact: Coming into contact with surfaces or objects that have been in touch with a wart, such as towels or floors.
- Autoinoculation: Spreading the virus to other parts of one’s own body through scratching or shaving.
Prevention:
To reduce the risk of developing or spreading warts:
- Maintain Hygiene: Regularly wash hands and keep skin clean and dry.
- Avoid Sharing Personal Items: Do not share towels, socks, or shoes.
- Protect Feet in Public Areas: Wear flip-flops or protective footwear in communal showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools.
- Cover Warts: Use waterproof plasters when swimming and avoid scratching or picking at warts.
Help at the Pharmacy
While many warts resolve on their own within months or years, NHS treatment may be appropriate for cosmetic reasons, discomfort, or to prevent spreading. Options include:
- Over-the-Counter (OTC) Treatments:
- Salicylic Acid: Available as creams, gels, or plasters, this treatment exfoliates the affected skin. Consistent daily application for up to 12 weeks may be necessary.
- Freezing: (Cryotherapy Kits): These OTC products freeze the wart using dimethyl ether propane, though they are less potent than professional treatments.
- Procedural Treatments:
- Cryotherapy: A healthcare professional applies liquid nitrogen to freeze the wart, typically requiring multiple sessions.
- Electrosurgery and Curettage: The wart is burned and scraped off under local anaesthesia.
- Laser Treatment: Utilizes laser energy to destroy wart tissue, often reserved for stubborn cases.
When to Seek Medical Advice:
Consult a healthcare professional if:
- Warts Persist: They do not respond to OTC treatments or worsen.
- Pain or Bleeding Occurs: Especially if the wart interferes with daily activities.
- Uncertainty About Diagnosis: If the growth changes in appearance or causes concern.
- Genital Warts: Genital warts are a sexually transmitted infection requiring specialized medical attention. They may disappear on their own within six months, but treatment options include topical medications, cryotherapy, or surgical removal.
Summary
Warts are common skin growths caused by HPV. While often harmless and self-resolving, various treatments are available to expedite removal or address discomfort. Maintaining good hygiene and taking preventive measures can help reduce the risk of contracting or spreading warts.