Warts
WARTS
Warts are common skin growths caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). They are typically small, rough, and firm, and can appear on any part of the body. Warts are contagious and can be spread through direct contact or by touching surfaces that have come into contact with the virus.
SYMPTOMS
Small, raised bumps on the skin, rough texture with a grainy or cauliflower-like appearance, discoloration or dark spots within the wart, pain or tenderness if the wart is located on weight-bearing areas like the soles of the feet.
TREATMENT
Your provider at Skin Care Specialists will plan a customized treatment plan for you. Treatment for warts depends on the location, size, and type of wart. Some common treatment options include:
Over-the-counter treatments: These include topical medications containing salicylic acid or freezing kits that use cryotherapy to freeze the wart.
Prescription treatments: Stronger medications, such as topical creams or solutions, may be prescribed by a dermatologist.
Cryotherapy: This procedure involves freezing the wart with liquid nitrogen, causing it to gradually fall off.
Electrocautery: The wart is burned off using an electric current.
Laser therapy: A laser is used to destroy the wart tissue.
Surgical removal: For larger or resistant warts, surgical excision may be necessary.