One of the most commonly contracted viruses is the human papillomavirus (HPV), which can quietly cause many health issues. One of the signs of HPV is warts appearing on the skin, the rough bumps that can grow almost anywhere on the body. Warts can be uncomfortable in some areas and also unattractive if they appear in visible areas like the face or hands. If you need warts removed, come see us at MJR Dermatology in Lawrenceville, GA, for treatment.
There have been many myths about warts over the centuries, from catching them from frogs to creating a sinister appearance. It is often said that warts are not contagious, but that is not completely true. You cannot spread warts from person to person – if someone comes in contact with a wart, it does not necessarily mean they will get warts. However, they may contract the human papillomavirus, which causes warts, if the virus enters their body.
Types of Warts
There are different types of warts that can appear in different places on the body, and all are caused by HPV. The common skin warts are those that may grow on your chin or show up on your thumb, usually rough in texture and range in size from tiny to the size of a pencil eraser. There are also genital warts, which may be pink or dark brown, located in the genital region. Plantar warts are found on the feet and ankles, often on the soles of the feet, and tend to be flat with black dots. Other types of warts include filiform, periungual and flat.
Wart Treatment
There is not a cure for HPV, but warts can be removed if they are painful or aesthetically displeasing. If home remedies do not work, there are medical options that can be used to remove the wart quickly and effectively. These include prescription topical peeling medications, laser treatments, cryotherapy and excision. Wart removal is not always permanent – it is possible the wart could grow back in time.
Warts in Children and Teens
For children and teens, warts can be a source of discomfort and self-consciousness, especially if they appear on visible areas like the face or hands. These rough bumps, varying in size and texture, can develop virtually anywhere on the body. At MJR Dermatology in Lawrenceville, we specialize in the removal of warts, offering both relief and aesthetic improvement for pediatric patients.
Warts are surrounded by myths and misconceptions. Despite old tales, warts are not caused by frogs and toads but are a manifestation of HPV. While direct transmission of warts from person to person is rare, the virus itself can be spread, potentially leading to wart development if it enters the body.
Types of Warts in Children and Teens
Children and teenagers can develop various types of warts, each with its distinct characteristics:
- Common Skin Warts: Often found on fingers, hands, and even the face. These warts are typically rough in texture.
- Plantar Warts: Located on the soles of the feet, these warts are usually flat with small black dots, often causing discomfort when walking.
- Flat Warts: Smaller and smoother, these can appear in large numbers on any part of the body.
- Filiform Warts: These have a thread-like appearance and commonly grow around the mouth, eyes, or nose.
- Periungual Warts: Found around the nails, these can affect nail growth.
Wart Removal Treatments for Children and Teens
Although there’s no cure for HPV, there are effective treatments for wart removal. At MJR Dermatology, we consider the child’s age, the wart’s location, and other factors to determine the best treatment method. Options may include:
- Prescription Topical Medications: These peeling agents gradually remove layers of the wart.
- Cryotherapy: A popular method involving the freezing of warts to remove them.
- Laser Treatments: Effective for certain types of warts, especially larger or more persistent ones.
- Surgical Excision: Used for warts that are resistant to other forms of treatment.
It’s important to note that while these treatments can remove warts, they might recur as HPV remains in the body.
For parents concerned about warts on their child or teenager, MJR Dermatology in Lawrenceville, GA, is here to help. Our advanced wart removal procedures are designed to be as painless and effective as possible, ensuring the comfort and well-being of our young patients. Contact our medical center today to schedule a consultation for wart removal and explore the best options for your child’s skin health.
If you want a wart removed from your skin, come see us at MJR Dermatology. We offer advanced wart removal procedures at our facility in Lawrenceville, GA. Call our medical center today to schedule your wart removal consultation.