Effective Treatments for Genital Warts: Seeking the Right Care

Cauliflower treatment

Hello, doctor.
In early January 2015, I developed warts in the midsection of my penis.
After researching online, I visited a traditional Chinese medicine clinic in Taichung.
The physician examined me with the naked eye and immediately diagnosed it as warts.
I was charged NT$9,000 for the consultation and medication.
The consultation felt formulaic, lasting only about five minutes, after which I was instructed to go to the counter to pick up my medication (a jar of modified Jin Yin Wu Bao San and a small bottle of topical solution).
Since the clinic was private and not covered by health insurance, I wanted to expedite my treatment and did not question the prescribed powdered medication, which was meant to last about two weeks, with instructions to take it three times a day.
The topical solution was to be applied every four days.
While the warts did disappear temporarily after application, they reappeared shortly after and continued for another two weeks.
I returned for more medication, again paying NT$9,000.
This continued for over a month, and after finishing the medication, the warts showed no improvement.
The clinic advised me to avoid alcohol, spicy, sweet, and fried foods, which I have tried to adhere to, completely avoiding alcohol and limiting the other three categories to a reasonable extent.
However, there are still no signs of improvement.
Could you recommend a clinic or hospital in Taichung for treatment? Additionally, what would be the best treatment method? Will the treatment costs be high?

A-Peng, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/02/17

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology

Without actually seeing the lesion, it cannot be confirmed.
If it is very bothersome, it is recommended to seek medical attention as soon as possible.
It is advisable to visit a urologist or dermatologist for treatment.

Reply Date: 2016/02/17

More Info

Genital warts, caused by certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV), can be a challenging condition to manage. Your experience with traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and the lack of improvement is not uncommon, as the effectiveness of such treatments can vary widely and may not address the underlying viral infection.
For effective treatment of genital warts, it is essential to consult a healthcare provider who specializes in dermatology or urology. These specialists can offer evidence-based treatments that have been shown to be effective in clinical studies. Here are some common treatment options:
1. Topical Treatments:
- Podophyllin: A resin derived from the mayapple plant, applied by a healthcare provider. It works by destroying wart tissue.

- Imiquimod: A topical cream that boosts the immune response to the virus. Patients typically apply it several times a week for several weeks.

- Sinecatechins: An ointment derived from green tea extract, applied to the warts.

2. Cryotherapy: This involves freezing the warts with liquid nitrogen. This method is effective for many patients and can be performed in a doctor's office.

3. Electrosurgery: This technique uses electrical currents to burn off the warts. It is often used for larger or more resistant warts.

4. Laser Treatment: For extensive or stubborn warts, laser treatment can be an option. This method is effective but may require multiple sessions.

5. Surgical Removal: In some cases, warts may need to be surgically excised, especially if they are large or recurrent.

Regarding your inquiry about where to seek treatment in Taichung, I recommend looking for a reputable dermatology clinic or a urology department in a hospital. Major hospitals often have specialists who are experienced in treating HPV-related conditions. You can also check for clinics that offer sexual health services, as they are more likely to have the expertise in managing genital warts.

As for the cost of treatment, it can vary significantly based on the method used and the healthcare facility. Generally, topical treatments may be less expensive, while procedures like cryotherapy or laser treatment can be more costly. It's advisable to inquire about the costs upfront and check if your health insurance covers any of the treatments.

In addition to seeking treatment, it's important to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider about your symptoms and any concerns you may have. They can provide guidance on lifestyle modifications, such as avoiding irritants and maintaining a healthy immune system, which can help in managing the condition.

Lastly, consider discussing HPV vaccination with your healthcare provider. The HPV vaccine can prevent the strains of the virus that cause most genital warts and is recommended for both males and females.

In summary, effective treatment for genital warts involves consulting a specialist who can provide evidence-based options. Seeking care from a reputable clinic or hospital in Taichung will give you access to the best treatment available.

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