Common warts are small, grainy skin growths
Common warts are of virus origin and are transmitted by touch. They are caused by the human papillomavirus
Common warts usually are small, fleshy, grainy bumps that are flesh-colored, white, pink or tan covered with black dots.
Children, young adults and people with weakened immune systems are at higher risk of developing common warts include:
Prevention
To reduce your risk of common warts:
- Avoid direct contact with warts. This includes your own warts.
- Don't pick at warts. Picking may spread the virus.
- Don't use the same emery board, pumice stone or nail clipper on your warts as you use on your healthy skin and nails. Use a disposable emery board.
- Don't bite your fingernails. Warts occur more often in skin that has been broken. Nibbling the skin around your fingernails opens the door for the virus.
- Groom with care. And avoid brushing, clipping or shaving areas that have warts. If you must shave, use an electric razor.
- Do not share personal items with others;
- You should always wear shoes in a public shower, swimming pool area, dressing room;
- Despite warnings, some people inadvertently touch the wart - immediately wash your hands with soap;
- Buy a type of plaster at the pharmacy to cover your warts while swimming;
- Follow personal hygiene.
Treatment
Most common warts go away without treatment. Some people choose to have their warts treated by a doctor because home treatment isn't working and the warts are bothersome,
The goals of treatment are to destroy the wart, stimulate an immune system.
Treatment may take weeks or months. Even with treatment, warts tend to recur or spread.
Your doctor may suggest one of the following approaches, based on the location of your warts, your symptoms and your preferences. Cryotherapy, laser treatment, minor surgery, and more may be needed.
Source:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/common-warts/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20371131
https://www.southerncross.co.nz/group/medical-library/warts-symptoms-treatment-prevention
