Warts

Warts can cause both discomfort and embarrassment. They are also infectious, making it easy for you to spread them to other parts of your body. At Soine Dermatology & Aesthetics, which has offices in Covington and Hammond, Louisiana, where board-certified dermatologists offer effective solutions for eliminating warts and preventing their reoccurrence. To schedule an appointment, call the nearest office or book an appointment online today.

What are warts?

Warts are infectious skin growths caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). You can contract the virus through cuts or open wounds, causing the upper layer of skin to multiply, forming the wart. After making contact with the virus, you may not notice the wart growth for several months.

You can develop warts on any area of your body, but they are most common in your hands. Warts are easily spread through human contact or by sharing razors and other personal products.

Warts are not usually painful, but if one develops on a pressure-prone area, such as the bottom of your foot, the irritation can eventually cause pain.

What are the risk factors for developing warts?

Anyone can get warts, but some people may be at higher risk of developing them. Risks include:

• Weakened immune system
• Age (common in children and young adults)
• Sharing personal items with infected people
• Nail biting
• Walking barefoot on wet surfaces (public bathrooms, swimming pools)
• Frequently wearing closed shoes, causing sweaty feet

Soine Dermatology & Aesthetics recommends using proper hygiene, especially in public areas, and wearing well-fitting, breathable shoes to prevent warts.

How are warts diagnosed?

The Soine Dermatology & Aesthetics team diagnoses warts through a physical exam. They may also perform a skin biopsy, taking a sample of the wart for further examination, especially if the wart is bleeding or grows quickly.

Warts differ in size and shape. They can appear as a bump with a rough surface or be smooth and flat. Blood vessels in the wart may be visible, appearing as dark spots in the center of the wart.

It’s essential to contact the Soine Dermatology & Aesthetics team if you’re unsure whether an abnormal skin growth is a wart. You should also report any discharge, swelling, or fever as soon as possible. If you notice red streaks extending from the skin growth, seek medical treatment immediately.

How are warts treated?

Most warts don’t require treatment and will disappear on their own. You should seek treatment from Soine Dermatology & Aesthetics if you have warts that spread or cause you pain. They offer multiple in-office wart treatments, including:

• Topical or injectable medications
• Cryotherapy
• Laser or surgical removal

Wart treatments may eliminate warts initially, but they may return or spread to other areas if HPV is still active in your body.

If warts are bothering you, schedule an appointment with Soine Dermatology & Aesthetics by calling the office or booking one online today.