How to get rid of warts?

Warts, also known as verrucas, are benign skin changes caused by the HPV virus. It enters the body through small skin injuries, such as minor cuts or scrapes. Infection can occur through direct contact as well as touching contaminated objects.

Warts appear as hard, rough bumps, often resembling cauliflower. They may often have visible black dots on them, which are actually tiny blood vessels.

There are several types of warts. The most common ones include common warts (mostly found on hands) and plantar warts (occurring on the soles of the feet and often causing pain). Flat warts typically appear on the face, while genital warts occur in the genital area.

Home remedies for warts often utilize natural ingredients. Many people turn to proven methods in the hope of reducing unwanted skin changes. The following therapies are commonly used:

• juice from greater celandine herb, which is intended to inhibit the division of wart cells,

• garlic poultices, valued for their antiseptic properties,

• apple cider vinegar, whose effects are sometimes compared to salicylic acid,

• essential oils, such as tea tree or lemon,

• dandelion sap,

• aloe vera,

• special pastes.

However, it is worth remembering that the effectiveness of these home methods has not been scientifically confirmed. Furthermore, their use can lead to skin irritations, and the results obtained are highly varied as each body reacts differently to them.

When home remedies for warts prove to be insufficient, over-the-counter pharmacy products come to the rescue. They can be divided into two main categories: keratolytic preparations and cryotherapy kits.

Keratolytic preparations, available as liquids, gels, ointments, and even patches, contain substances such as salicylic acid, lactic acid, or TCA. Their task is the gradual exfoliation of the epidermis, which leads to the disappearance of the lesion.

Another effective method of treating warts is cryotherapy, i.e., at-home freezing of warts. A popular solution is also silver nitrate, commonly known as the "devil's stone." This caustic agent comes in stick form and requires particularly careful use - always remember to protect healthy skin around the treated area.

When home remedies and pharmacy products prove to be ineffective in fighting warts, a specialist comes to the rescue - a dermatologist or a podiatrist, who will professionally remove the troublesome growths.

One of the popular methods of combating warts is cryotherapy, which uses liquid nitrogen. Another commonly used technique is laser therapy, usually using a CO2 laser that precisely vaporizes the wart tissue. This procedure is performed under local anesthesia. It is also worth mentioning electrocoagulation, which involves burning skin lesions with high-frequency current.

However, if warts prove to be particularly resistant, a specialist may opt for more invasive procedures, such as surgical treatment. This may involve scraping or excising the growth with a scalpel. The final choice of treatment method depends on many factors, including the type, size, and location of the wart.

Warts often appear in the youngest children, but usually disappear on their own. However, it is always worth consulting them with a doctor - a pediatrician or dermatologist will assess the situation. A young child's body often has weaker immunity, and delicate skin is more susceptible to microtraumas, which promotes the development of these changes.

If treatment is necessary, the specialist will choose safe and minimally invasive methods. Often, ointments with a low concentration of salicylic acid are used. There are also cryotherapy kits available, although these are intended for children over 4 years of age.

In the case of warts resistant to standard therapies, the doctor may consider a different approach. After a thorough dermatological assessment, they may decide to perform a procedure in the office. Proper hygiene is also extremely important. By teaching a child to take care of cleanliness, it is possible to effectively stop the spread of the virus.

When it comes to warts, it is always worth consulting a dermatologist. This is crucial for proper treatment and monitoring of new changes.

Immediate specialist intervention is required for warts that:

• bleed,
• grow rapidly,
• change color,
• cause pain,
• cause inflammation,
• occur in large numbers,
• do not resolve despite using over-the-counter products for several weeks.

Consultation with a specialist should also be considered by:

• people with diabetes,
• people with circulation problems,
• pregnant women,
• breastfeeding women.

In these cases, professional help is necessary to minimize the risk of complications and prevent recurrence of warts.

To effectively prevent warts and their recurrence, it is worth remembering a few prevention principles.

• Maintain personal hygiene - regularly wash your hands and feet.

• In public places such as pools, always wear protective footwear, e.g. flip-flops.

• Avoid sharing personal items such as towels, socks, or foot care accessories.

• Boost immunity through a healthy lifestyle, balanced diet, and if necessary, appropriate supplementation.

• Remember to regularly moisturize the skin, which strengthens its natural protective barrier.

• Avoid biting nails and cuticles, as it opens the way for infections.

• Ensure that your feet are always dry and wear breathable footwear that allows your feet to breathe.

• Consider HPV vaccinations, which can protect against some types of viruses responsible for warts.