Warts (Verruca)

Warts (Verruca) Overview

Warts, also known as verruca, are non-cancerous, small, hard growths that appear on the skin. They are caused by an infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV), which enters through tiny cuts or breaks in the skin. This infection triggers rapid growth of skin cells, resulting in the raised bumps that we recognize as warts. Although warts can appear anywhere on the body, they are most commonly found on the hands, feet and face. While they are typically harmless, warts can be unsightly, uncomfortable and, in some cases, cause irritation.

How are warts treated?

At Hattiesburg Clinic, we understand that every patient’s needs are unique. We approach wart treatment with the goal of providing the most effective care while minimizing discomfort and the risk of scarring. Several wart removal treatment options are available, and we collaborate with each patient to determine the best course of action based on the severity and location of the warts.

Common treatment options include:

Topical Treatments: Over-the-counter options such as salicylic acid can be used to gradually dissolve the wart. This requires consistent application over weeks.
Cryotherapy: Liquid nitrogen is applied to freeze the wart, causing it to fall off after a few days. This treatment may need to be repeated several times.
Laser Therapy: Laser treatment can effectively burn away wart tissue, especially for stubborn warts or those located in sensitive areas.
Electrosurgery: Using a small electrical current, this technique removes the wart tissue and is often done under local anesthesia.
Surgical Removal: For large or persistent warts, surgical excision may be necessary to remove the growth completely.

What can make warts worse?

Warts are highly contagious due to the virus that causes them. Several factors can lead to the worsening or spreading of warts, including:

Picking or Scratching: Picking or scratching a wart can transfer the virus to other areas of your skin or even to other people.

Weakened Immune System: If your immune system is compromised, it may be harder for your body to fight off the wart-causing virus, leading to more persistent warts.

Moisture and Friction: Exposure to moisture, such as sweaty hands or feet and friction from tight clothing or shoes can irritate warts, making them grow larger.

Delaying Treatment: Waiting too long to treat warts can make them harder to remove and may lead to further irritation.

Sharing Personal Items: Sharing personal items, such as towels or razors, can spread the virus, increasing the risk of new warts developing.

Choose Hattiesburg Clinic

At Hattiesburg Clinic, we combine expertise with compassionate care to provide the best treatment for warts. Our specialists are skilled in the latest medical techniques and work with each patient to find a solution that minimizes discomfort and scarring. We aim to provide effective treatment while helping you maintain healthy skin with as little disruption as possible. Whether you are seeking wart removal treatment or guidance on effective warts treatment, you can trust our team to support your health and well-being.

Warts (Verruca) Overview

How are warts treated?

What can make warts worse?

Choose Hattiesburg Clinic

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