Warts: Causes, Treatments, and Home Remedies

There is a growth on my foot?

In the first and second grades of elementary school, I developed warts on my index finger nail.
At that time, no one in my family knew what they were, so we just left them alone.
By the time I was in the third grade, they had grown very large, and I had no choice but to go to a clinic for cryotherapy.
It was incredibly painful.
After that, more warts started to appear on my body—on my thighs, arms, nose, and even eyelids—leaving me with numerous dark scars.
My mother told me that she had warts before she was pregnant with me, but they went away shortly after, so I assume this is not hereditary...
However, I would like to ask if some people are naturally predisposed to developing warts? I underwent treatment for four years but eventually stopped because it was painful every week, and the follow-up care was very inconvenient.
I currently have two warts, but I have also developed many small, flat, brown spots on my feet.
They are not raised, but rather resemble tiny dots.
They are not large, and the skin in those areas tends to peel off after a while.
Occasionally, they itch, and it feels like something is growing underneath.
A few of them have recurred, but based on my previous experience, they don’t seem like warts (since my warts don’t peel off on their own).
It has been difficult to find related cases online.
I would like to ask the doctor what the possibilities are, as I really hope to avoid going to the clinic and being treated for warts again with cryotherapy.
Lastly, I would like to know if there are any other cryotherapy methods besides using a cotton swab to apply pressure? A friend mentioned a spray method, but I didn’t understand it.
Every time I use a cotton swab, it is extremely painful, and the thought of potentially dealing with this for decades is really disheartening and concerning.
I am currently using a topical solution from the pharmacy to treat the small warts, but I worry that it won’t eliminate them completely and they will come back.
Thank you, doctor.

Peng Tongxue, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/08/17

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology

Warts are contagious, not hereditary.
As for whether it is a wart, a textual description cannot provide a definitive diagnosis.
It is recommended that you continue with active treatment.

Reply Date: 2017/08/17

More Info

Warts are benign growths on the skin caused by human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. They can appear anywhere on the body, including the fingers, arms, legs, and even the face. Warts are generally harmless, but they can be bothersome, especially when they are located in visible areas or when they cause discomfort. Understanding the causes, treatments, and home remedies for warts can help manage this condition effectively.

Causes of Warts
Warts are primarily caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), which infects the top layer of skin. There are over 100 different types of HPV, and some are more likely to cause warts than others. The virus enters the body through small cuts or breaks in the skin, which is why warts are more common in areas that are frequently exposed to trauma or irritation.
Certain factors can increase the likelihood of developing warts, including:
1. Weakened Immune System: Individuals with compromised immune systems, such as those with autoimmune diseases or those undergoing immunosuppressive treatments, are more susceptible to HPV infections.

2. Age: Warts are more common in children and young adults, as their immune systems may not have encountered the virus before.

3. Skin-to-Skin Contact: Warts can spread through direct contact with an infected person or by touching surfaces contaminated with the virus, such as gym equipment or swimming pool areas.

4. Genetic Predisposition: While warts are not directly hereditary, some individuals may have a genetic tendency to develop them more easily.

Treatments for Warts
There are several treatment options available for warts, ranging from over-the-counter remedies to professional medical treatments. Here are some common methods:
1. Cryotherapy: This is the freezing method you mentioned, where liquid nitrogen is applied to the wart to destroy the tissue. While effective, it can be painful and may require multiple sessions.

2. Salicylic Acid: Over-the-counter treatments containing salicylic acid can help peel away the wart gradually. This method requires consistent application and patience, as it may take several weeks to see results.

3. Laser Treatment: For stubborn warts, laser therapy can be used to target and destroy the wart tissue. This method is usually performed by a dermatologist.

4. Electrosurgery: This involves burning the wart with an electric current. It is effective but may also cause discomfort.

5. Immunotherapy: This treatment stimulates the immune system to fight off the HPV infection. It may involve topical treatments or injections.

Home Remedies
While home remedies may not be scientifically proven, some people find relief using natural treatments. These include:
- Apple Cider Vinegar: Soaking a cotton ball in apple cider vinegar and applying it to the wart may help due to its acidic properties.

- Duct Tape: Covering the wart with duct tape for several days may help suffocate the wart and promote healing.

- Garlic: Applying crushed garlic to the wart may have antiviral properties that can help eliminate it.

Concerns About Recurrence
Warts can recur after treatment, especially if the underlying HPV infection is not fully eradicated. It’s essential to follow up with a healthcare provider if warts persist or if new ones appear.

Alternative Cryotherapy Methods
Regarding your question about alternatives to the painful cryotherapy method you experienced, there are indeed products available that allow for at-home freezing treatments. These typically come in spray form and are designed for easy application. However, it’s crucial to follow the instructions carefully to avoid damaging surrounding skin.

Conclusion
While warts can be a nuisance, they are generally not a cause for concern. If you are experiencing discomfort or have concerns about the appearance of warts, it is advisable to consult a dermatologist. They can provide a proper diagnosis and recommend the most suitable treatment options for your specific situation. Remember, patience is key, as some treatments may take time to show results.

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