Warts are benign skin growths caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). They primarily appear on the hands, feet and occasionally on other parts of the body. Highly contagious, they are transmitted through direct contact or via contaminated surfaces, particularly in swimming pools or changing rooms. Read on for more information about warts.
Contamination occurs through direct contact with a person carrying a wart or via contaminated surfaces such as swimming pools, public showers, or sports mats.
Do warts disappear spontaneously?
Some warts may disappear spontaneously over a few months or years, but treatment can expedite their removal.
How to treat a wart?
A wart can be removed using cryotherapy, salicylic acid treatment, laser therapy, or electrocoagulation.
Are warts painful?
Plantar warts can cause discomfort due to the pressure exerted while walking, but other types are typically painless.
Why do some individuals have more warts than others?
Everything hinges on the immune system and exposure to the HPV virus. Children and immunocompromised individuals are often more susceptible to warts.
Is it possible to scrape off a wart?
No, this may risk spreading the virus and increasing the number of warts on the skin.
Can warts reappear after treatment?
Yes, it is possible for new warts to appear if the virus is still present in the body.
How can one determine if a wart is disappearing?
If the wart darkens, dries out, and begins to detach, it indicates that it is disappearing.