Warts also referred to as Verruca Vulgaris, are small and generally painless growths that appear on the skin. They are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), a common virus that infects the top layer of the skin. According to a study by the NCBI, warts often start on the skin and mucous membranes, including the hands, feet, and other areas, affecting approximately 10% of the population. While warts are typically harmless, they can be contagious and spread from person to person through skin-to-skin contact or by touching an object that has been touched by someone with a wart. Sometimes warts removal or treatment by a skin specialist is important to avoid spreading or to alleviate discomfort. There are multiple wart treatments available such as homeopathy wart treatment, cryotherapy (freezing), topical medication, or minor surgery, depending on the size and location of warts.
Warts are a type of skin growth that can occur when a person becomes infected with a virus from the human papillomavirus (HPV) family. This virus triggers the excessive production of keratin, a protein that makes up the top layer of skin, leading to the formation of thick, hard skin in the affected area. Although these growths are noncancerous, they can be unsightly and uncomfortable. While HPV is a common virus with over a hundred different types, only a few types cause warts, and these warts are typically harmless and benign. However, HPV is also the most common sexually transmitted infection, and the majority of sexually active individuals will come into contact with the virus at some point in their lives. While some people remain asymptomatic, others may develop genital warts, which can increase the risk of developing cancer in some cases. If genital warts appear, it is always advisable to speak with a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.
There are several types of warts, each with its appearance and characteristics. Here's an overview of the most common types:
These are the most frequently occurring type of warts, appearing as raised, rough, and flesh-colored bumps on hands, fingers, and around the nails
Flat warts are small, smooth, and flat-topped with a flesh-colored appearance that usually appears in clusters on the face and legs.
These are long, narrow, and thread-like warts that grow in clusters and are often found on the face and neck. They tend to spread quickly and can be easily irritated.
These warts grow on the soles of the feet and can be painful, feeling like pebbles in your shoe. They have a mosaic-like appearance and may have a tiny dot at the center.
Small, raised growths on the skin
Flat or raised
Flesh-colored, white, pink, or brown
May occur singly or in clusters
Rough or smooth surface
May itch or hurt, especially if on the soles of the feet
May bleed if picked or scraped
Warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) and can occur on any part of the body. Although anyone can develop warts, certain risk factors may increase the likelihood of getting them. Here are some common risk factors for warts:
Weakened immune system : |
People with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS, undergoing chemotherapy, or taking immunosuppressant drugs, are more susceptible to warts |
Direct contact with warts : |
Touching a wart on someone else's skin, sharing towels or other personal items with someone who has warts, or walking barefoot on surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus can all increase the risk of getting warts. |
Damaged skin : |
Cuts, scrapes, or other forms of skin damage can make it easier for the virus to enter the body and cause warts. |
Age : |
Children and teenagers are more likely to get warts than adults |
Occupation : |
Certain occupations, such as those that involve handling meat or fish, can increase the risk of developing warts on the hands. |
Genetics : |
Some people may be genetically predisposed to developing warts |
Environmental factors : |
Living in warm, humid climates may increase the risk of getting warts. |
It's important to note that not all people who are exposed to the virus that causes warts will develop them. If you are concerned about developing warts, taking steps to avoid exposure to the virus, such as wearing shoes in public places and not sharing personal items, may help reduce your risk.
Did you know that attempting to treat warts on your own through methods like shaving or using non-prescription ointments can make the problem worse? This is because only removing part of a wart can cause the virus to spread to other parts of your body or other people. That's why it's not recommended to try self-treatment methods such as burning, fiddling, shaving, or applying non-prescription ointments to warts. Instead, it's important to seek professional wart treatment to ensure proper removal and prevent the spread of the virus.
Visual examination:
People with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS, undergoing chemotherapy, or taking immunosuppressant drugs, are more susceptible to warts
Biopsy:
In some cases, your doctor may take a small sample of the wart tissue and send it to a laboratory for testing. This can help confirm the diagnosis and rule out other skin conditions.
Skin scrapings:
Your doctor may take a scraping of the top layer of skin on the wart to examine under a microscope. This can help confirm the diagnosis and determine the type of wart.
Dermoscopy:
A dermoscopy is a handheld instrument that uses a magnifying lens and a light to examine the skin. Your doctor may use this to examine the wart in more detail and rule out other skin conditions.
Warts can cause significant psychological stress and discomfort, as they can be visibly disfiguring and painful. That's why it's important to seek out the services of a qualified skin specialist who can provide effective warts removal solutions.
One option to consider is homeopathic wart treatment, which takes a holistic approach to healing warts. Using natural sources such as plants and minerals, homeopathy can effectively treat the underlying causes of warts, while also providing relief from localized pain. Additionally, homeopathy does not require any dietary restrictions, making it a convenient and accessible option for anyone seeking warts removal in Dubai.
Homeopathic medicines have demonstrated remarkable efficacy in the treatment of warts removal, making them one of the most successful areas of homeopathy. A study conducted at Nehru Homeopathic Medical College & Hospital in New Delhi validated the effectiveness of homeopathic medicines, such as Nitric acid, Thuja, and Dulcamara, over placebo for treating warts. Among the 60 cases analyzed, an impressive 63.6% of patients treated with homeopathic medicines exhibited significant improvement, while only 6% of patients treated with a placebo showed improvement.
Do not use the medication mentioned in this blog without consulting a qualified homeopathic physician. You can consult a homeopathic expert from your nearest Dr Batra's® Homeopathic Clinic and obtain answers to your concerns if you have a worry or a question!
Dr Batra’s® is a well-known homeopathic clinic that offers a range of treatments for various conditions, including warts. We have over 35 years of experience and have a team of qualified doctors who are experts in treating skin conditions. Dr Batra's® UAE offers personalized treatments to patients, ensuring that warts removal treatment goes beyond just treating physical symptoms. The emotional needs of patients are also considered, as these are often the underlying causes of medical disorders. The doctors at Dr Batra's® spend a significant amount of time with each patient, carefully examining visible signs and symptoms, reviewing medical history, lifestyle, and other stress factors that may have triggered the development of warts. By taking a holistic approach to treatment, Dr Batra's® ensures that patients receive comprehensive care that addresses both the physical and emotional aspects of their condition.