What are warts?

Warts, also known as verruca are small tumours usually on the hands or feet although they may occur on other parts of the body. They look loke a small lump or blister.

Warts are quite common and are caused by a viral infection.  They are contagious and are spread by direct contact with the infected area and also by the use of shared towels etc. from infected persons 

Warts usually clear by themselves in a few months but not always. Warts can recur and some people seem to be particularly prone to repeat infections. 

Types of wart 

Common: Common warts usually occur on the fingers, hands, elbows or knees. They are small and hard. 

Flat: Flat warts are about the size of a pinhead, smoother than common warts and have flat tops. Flat warts occur mostly on the face. 

Plantar: Plantar warts occur 8under the foot and are often very uncomfortable - Like walking on a small pebble. 

Filiform: Filiform warts are flesh coloured and occur mostly about the eyes, mouth and nose. They are usually oblong shaped growing out from the body. 

Treatment 

·         Over the counter medicines. There are many ointments etc that can be bought over the counter to treat warts. Always follow the instructions on the packet. If they persist seek medical advice 

·         Burning: your doctor may be able to burn the wart off using a small electric current 

·         Freezing: Some doctors have a small stock of liquid nitrogen and can apply this to the wart area and remove it 

·         Laser: You can also get laser treatment to have warts removed. This is becoming more common as the treatment becomes more available 

Prevention 

There is usually little that you can do to prevent getting warts. You have a better chance of avoiding warts if you avoid contact with infected persons. Be careful when sharing towels, clothing etc. Wear sandals when in the gym, public pool etc. wash your hands regularly.  

Click Here to learn how to remove warts easily without drugs

Seek help  

·         Children 

o   If a very young child or infant has warts 

o   If any child has a wart on the genitals, rectum or face. 

·         Everyone 

o   If the warts are painful in any way 

o   If they are bleeding 

o   If they change colour or are red 

o   If they or the surrounding area is swollen 

o   If they are infected - Oozing pus. 

Warts rarely cause serious medical problems. However, care should be taken not to scratch them or try to cut them away yourself. This will often lead to infection and can complicate matters. Doctors do not like to cut away warts as they can leave a nasty scar.