Most of us have had a wart appear on our body at some time, or at the very least have known someone who has warts. But other than the ick factor, there’s probably a pretty good chance that many of these same people know little to nothing about the common wart. Because education is the first step in eradication of this sometimes painful skin condition, we have compiled a list of five important facts about warts to help you along your way to flawless skin.
Different Types of Warts
There first of our important facts involves type; there are actually different types of warts. In addition to the common wart, there are plantar warts, genital warts, and molluscs, which are wart-like infections most commonly found in children caused by the molluscum contagiosum virus—not HPV. Plantar warts are flat warts found on the bottom of the foot which can be extremely painful. Genital warts are spread by sexual contact, while the common wart is caused by the HPV virus.
Warts Can Be Extremely Contagious
HPV warts (verrucae) are very contagious and can spread all over the body, especially if the person affected is prone to developing warts. While the verrucae are basically benign, in some cases they can cause cervical cancer in women. Women affected with the common wart should make sure to keep up with their gynecological appointments as a protective measure; cervical cancer can be deadly.
There Is No Cure for HPV Warts
It is possible to remove them, however, through surgery or medication, but the virus will remain in your body, and warts can return (or flare-up on occasion).
Genital Warts Remain on the Genitals
Unlike other types of warts, genital warts do not spread to other parts of the body and are most likely transmitted through sexual activity.
Using Tape or Clear Fingernail Polish Can Get Rid of the Common Wart
Working by suffocating the virus that caused the wart, the wart can eventually die and fall off the body if you cover it in tape or fingernail polish. Trying this first can save you the cost of a doctor’s visit, but if these at home remedies do not work, a visit to your physician will offer you other options you may not have known about.
Laser Lipo & Vein Center
Hopefully these warts facts have been enlightening. If you have tried home remedies with no avail, schedule a consultation with our helpful staff at the Laser Lipo & Vein Center today. Advancements in medical technology have created many new options for removing these old enemies.
Photo By Steven Fruitsmaak – Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=1167096
