What Are Warts?
If you've ever had a wart, you know how frustrating these small, stubborn growths can be, often popping up on your hands, fingers, or feet and refusing to go away on their own. Warts are a common skin condition caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). These growths can appear anywhere on the body but are most commonly found on the palms, fingers, and near the fingernails. They often resemble small, fleshy bumps similar to peas but can vary in size. Some people may notice clusters of warts, especially on the elbows and knees. Although generally harmless, warts can be unsightly and sometimes uncomfortable. There are several types of warts, including:
- Common warts: Often found on the hands and knees, they appear as rough, raised bumps.
- Plantar warts: Found on the soles of the feet, these warts are usually hard and may be painful.
- Flat warts: These warts are smaller and smoother than common warts. They typically develop on the face, legs, or other areas prone to shaving.
- Filiform warts: Long and thin warts, typically appearing on the face or neck.
Over-the-counter wart removal products often fail to completely remove warts. For effective treatment, professional wart removal is recommended. At Palm Beach Dermatology in Boca Raton, FL, Dr. Adam Aldahan and our team offer personalized wart treatment options. Schedule a consultation for prompt and lasting results.
What Are the Treatment Options for Wart Removal?
Treating warts early is important, as they often reoccur. Persistent or painful warts should be removed professionally if over-the-counter treatments cause allergic reactions. Dr. Aldahan, who authored a systematic review on intralesional immunotherapy, provides several effective wart removal methods to reduce the chance of recurrence, including:
- Liquid nitrogen (cryotherapy): This common wart treatment involves freezing the wart with liquid nitrogen. A blister forms around the wart, and after about a week, the dead tissue falls off. It's an effective treatment for most types of warts.
- Topical salicylic acid: A popular option for patients looking for a less invasive approach. Applying salicylic acid gradually breaks down the wart tissue over time.
- Intralesional candida injection: For stubborn or recurring warts, Dr. Aldahan offers intralesional immunotherapy. A small amount of candida antigen is injected into the wart, triggering an immune response. This method is particularly effective for treating warts resistant to other treatments.
- Surgical removal: When warts are too large or resistant to other treatments, surgical removal may be necessary. This involves excising the wart or scraping it away using a curette.
- HPV vaccine: For severe or recurrent cases, Gardasil may be recommended to reduce the risk of certain wart-causing strains of HPV.
- Oral zinc: These supplements are another option used to strengthen the immune system and assist the body in fighting off warts. A weakened immune system can make it harder to treat warts effectively so boosting immunity with supplements, like zinc, may support faster recovery.
- Home remedy: For smaller warts, some people may try home remedies. One option is to soak the wart in warm water for about 15 minutes to soften the tissue. Then, gently file the wart using a pumice stone. Do not use the pumice stone on other parts of the body, which could spread the virus.
What Do Warts Look Like?
Warts can vary significantly in appearance, depending on the type and location. Identifying the symptoms of warts early can help in seeking treatment promptly. Here are some common signs of warts:
- Rough, flesh-colored, or brown bumps with a grainy texture
- Small, tender bumps that feel fleshy to the touch
- Plantar warts on the bottom of the feet, which may resemble hard bumps with tiny black spots
- Flat warts, which are smaller and smoother, often appear on the face, legs, or shaved areas
- Filiform warts, which are long and thin, often found on the face or neck
If you notice any of these symptoms, it's important to seek professional advice. Warts can sometimes spread through skin-to-skin contact or by touching surfaces that have been exposed to the virus, like towels or gym equipment. Locker rooms and areas with communal surfaces can also harbor the virus.
Palm Beach Dermatology Reviews
Great doctor makes you feel super at ease and very thorough! So glad to have found this office ! Dr Adam is the best !
I have had two visits with Dr. Aldahan and he was nothing but amazing! He’s very thorough and takes his time during the visits. I had a procedure and he was super gentle . A great experience over all with the office staff as well.
Dr. Aldahan is very capable of taking care of my skin problems even after many years of treatment by others. This was my third visit with Dr. Aldahan and I have a two-month checkup scheduled.
The best, smart, nice knowledgeable, professional, up to date and hands on.
Very nice new office! Everyone was extremely welcoming and Dr. Aldahan listened to all my concerns and was very insightful. Would highly recommend.
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Get Rid of Unsightly Warts
If you're dealing with uncomfortable, unsightly, or simply persistent warts, Palm Beach Dermatology in Boca Raton, FL offers effective and personalized wart removal treatments. Dr. Adam Aldahan and our team provide a range of options, including liquid nitrogen therapy, topicals, injections, surgical removal, and even supplements in some cases. For professional wart removal and tailored treatment plans, schedule an appointment with Palm Beach Dermatology today.