The human papillomavirus, or HPV, is one of the most commonly spread sexually transmitted diseases that can cause many health complications. From venereal (genital) warts to increased risks of cervical cancer, it is important to know how this group of virus strains can affect your health. At MJR Dermatology, we offer HPV treatment and preventive measures at our medical center in Lawrenceville, GA.
HPV is not one virus but a group of over 100 DNA strains that can impact the body differently. Some are sexually or orally transmitted, while others can be spread through skin-to-skin contact. The difficulty with HPV is that it does not always present with any symptoms, or symptoms may not appear for months or even years. You can have HPV and never know it, while still spreading it to other people during close or sexual contact.
HPV Symptoms and Complications
If your body is unable to defeat the HPV virus once infected, it may result in symptoms and complications. One of the most common symptoms of HPV is genital warts. HPV can also cause other types of warts that appear in different areas of the body. These may appear around the genitals and anus as smaller clusters of protruding fleshy stems that may itch or feel sensitive. Common, planter and flat warts may also appear from HPV.
The most serious complication from HPV is cervical cancer. This can take decades to develop but almost all cervical cancers are caused by HPV.
Wart Removal and Treatment
If you have genital or other warts caused by HPV, there are treatments to remove the warts. While warts will usually go away on their own, they can multiply and cause discomfort for a long time. There are topical medications and surgical options to remove warts that are causing severe itching or sensitivity, which we can provide at MJR Dermatology.