Warts – did you know there are different varieties? There are several types of warts, and knowing the difference between them is handy. So, without further ado, here is your ‘warts and all’ guide…
What Is A Wart?
Warts are a skin condition caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). Although they usually aren’t dangerous, they’re contagious and they can be both painful and ugly. Warts are passed on through skin to skin contact, and it is extremely likely that you will get a wart at some point in your life.
What Are The Different Types Of Warts?
Warts are diverse skin growths caused by various strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV). Understanding the different types of warts can help in identifying and treating them more effectively. Here’s an in-depth look at the five common types:
Common Warts (Verruca Vulgaris)
Common warts are characterised by their rough, cauliflower-like texture and typically appear on the fingers, hands, knees, and elbows. These warts might feature a pattern of black dots, which are clotted blood vessels. They are particularly common amongst children and can spread through direct contact or shared objects like towels and door handles.
Treatment and Considerations: Over-the-counter treatments typically include salicylic acid plasters or solutions. Freezing therapies at a doctor’s office are also effective. Keeping the affected area clean and dry can prevent the spread of the virus.
Plantar Warts (Verruca Plantaris)
Plantar warts are hard, grainy, or fleshy growths on the feet, most commonly on the heels or balls of the feet. These warts can be painful under pressure, resembling the sensation of stepping on a pebble. Unlike other warts, plantar warts can grow inward due to the pressure from walking and standing.
Treatment and Considerations: Options include cryotherapy and prescription-strength salicylic acid. Laser treatment and surgical removal are considerations for persistent warts. It’s advisable to wear comfortable, cushioned footwear to alleviate discomfort.
Flat Warts (Verruca Plana)
Flat warts are smoother, flatter, and generally smaller than other wart types, and they tend to grow in large numbers. They can be pink, light brown, or light yellow and are most commonly found on the face, neck, wrists, hands, and knees—areas prone to shaving and skin trauma.
Treatment and Considerations: These warts are often treated with topical retinoids, which help shed the top layer of skin, or with treatments like cryotherapy. Avoiding shaving over the warts can prevent further spread.
Filiform Warts (Verruca Filiformis)
Filiform warts are long, narrow, and usually flesh-coloured, growing around the mouth, nose, or beard area. Their thread-like projections can make them particularly noticeable and potentially embarrassing.
Treatment and Considerations: Treatments include cryotherapy and electrosurgery. Due to their sensitive location, professional removal by a dermatologist is recommended to avoid scarring.
Periungual Warts
Periungual warts grow around or under the fingernails and toenails. These warts can disrupt nail growth and are painful. They start small but can become large, cauliflower-like growths that may extend under the nail, causing pain and potential nail loss.
Treatment and Considerations: These warts are difficult to treat due to their location. Treatment options include chemical treatments, cryotherapy, and minor surgery. Maintaining dry and clean hands and feet can help manage symptoms and prevent fungal infections.
When Should You Seek Treatment?
Generally, you should seek treatment for a wart if it is causing you pain or discomfort. However, it is possible to get any wart removed. Clinics such as Northwich Foot Clinic offer a variety of treatments to remove different types of warts and verrucas, and will be able to recommend a treatment that is suitable for you. There are several therapies available, from microwave therapy to needling to laser therapy. Whilst there are also at-home remedies available, these are usually not as effective and you should visit a professional if you have any concerns or pain.
How To Book An Appointment…
Northwich Foot Clinic is based in the centre of Northwich in Cheshire. Our clinic is accessible for people from across the North West and beyond, and we provide high quality, professional service. Our experienced podiatrists are skilled in the removal of warts and verrucas. To book your appointment, simply head to our online booking form or call us on 01606 45077 and we will be happy to help.
Frequently Asked Questions About Warts
What causes warts?
Warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). The virus enters the body through tiny cuts or breaks in the skin, leading to rapid cell growth on the outer layer of the skin which forms the wart.
Are warts contagious?
Yes, warts are highly contagious. They can be spread by direct contact with a wart or something that touched a wart, such as towels or surfaces. Personal hygiene and avoiding direct contact can help prevent the spread of warts.
How can you prevent warts?
Preventing warts involves minimising direct contact with warts from other people or from communal surfaces. Additionally, keeping your skin clean and dry and using barrier methods like flip-flops in communal showers and pools can reduce risk.
What are the treatment options for warts?
Treatment options vary depending on the type of wart and its location. They include salicylic acid treatments, cryotherapy (freezing the wart), laser treatments, and sometimes minor surgical procedures. Always consult with a healthcare provider for the treatment most appropriate for your specific case.
Can warts lead to cancer?
In general, common warts are not cancerous. However, some strains of HPV associated with warts can lead to cancerous changes, particularly those involving genital warts. If you have concerns about any changes in a wart’s appearance, consult a healthcare provider.
How long do warts last?
The duration of a wart varies widely among individuals. Some warts may disappear in a few months, while others may take years to resolve, and some might require removal by a healthcare professional.
Are home remedies effective for treating warts?
Home remedies, such as applying duct tape or tea tree oil, have been popular but lack consistent scientific support. Over-the-counter treatments like salicylic acid or freezing kits are generally more effective, but for stubborn or painful warts, professional treatment is recommended.
Is it safe to treat warts at home?
For common warts on the hands and feet, home treatment with over-the-counter products can be a safe option if used correctly. However, for warts on the face or genital area, it is advisable to seek treatment from a professional to avoid complications.
