Struggling with Anal Warts: Persistent Symptoms and Treatment Options - Surgery

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Dealing with anal warts, also known as genital warts, can be a frustrating and distressing experience, especially when symptoms persist despite various treatment attempts. It sounds like you have been through a challenging journey over the past 3 to 4 years, and it's understandable to feel overwhelmed and anxious about your condition.

Anal warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), which is a common sexually transmitted infection. While many people with HPV do not develop warts, those who do can find them persistent and recurrent. The treatments you have tried, including electrosurgery and topical treatments like Podofilox (often referred to as "汰疣凝" in Chinese) and Imiquimod (which may be what you mean by "芬瑞淨"), are standard approaches for managing these warts. However, the recurrence rate can be high, and some individuals may experience more severe reactions to these treatments than others.

From your description, it seems that after using Imiquimod, you experienced significant pain and inflammation, which is not uncommon. Imiquimod works by stimulating the immune system to fight the virus, but it can also cause irritation and inflammation in the surrounding skin. If the pain is severe and the area is inflamed, it may be wise to pause the treatment as you have done and allow the skin to heal.
Regarding the small raised area you can still feel, it is possible that this could be a remnant of the warts, a new wart, or even scar tissue from previous treatments. Scar tissue can sometimes feel raised and may not respond to wart treatments. If the area remains unchanged after the inflammation subsides, it might be worth consulting with a healthcare provider for further evaluation. They may recommend a biopsy to determine the nature of the growth, especially if there is any uncertainty about whether it is a wart or scar tissue.

In terms of your treatment options moving forward, here are a few considerations:
1. Consult a Specialist: If you haven't already, consider seeing a dermatologist or a specialist in sexually transmitted infections. They may have more experience with persistent cases of anal warts and can offer tailored advice.

2. Alternative Treatments: If topical treatments have not been effective, other options include cryotherapy (freezing the warts), laser therapy, or surgical excision. These methods can sometimes be more effective for stubborn warts.

3. Immune System Support: Since HPV can remain dormant in the body, supporting your immune system may help your body fight off the virus. This can include maintaining a healthy diet, managing stress, and getting adequate sleep.

4. Follow-Up Care: Regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider are crucial. They can monitor the area for any changes and adjust your treatment plan as necessary.

5. Emotional Support: The emotional toll of dealing with a chronic condition like this can be significant. Consider seeking support from a mental health professional or support groups where you can share your experiences and feelings.

It's important to remember that while anal warts can be persistent, they are generally not dangerous and do not lead to serious health issues. However, addressing them effectively and managing your symptoms is key to improving your quality of life. Don't hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for further guidance and support.