Common warts are also called HPV warts, because the human papillomavirus (HPV) is the virus that causes warts to grow. There are several types of HPV and what it does is infect the uppermost layer of the skin, particularly when it is damaged or has a cut and opening. The virus results in that layer of skin to grow very fast, developing a wart. The majority of warts disappear on their own in a matter of months. However, it can take up to 20 long months before they do.
There are 5 types of warts. They generally appear differently and develop on various parts of the body. A wart may be ignored do to it’s very small size, and not all warts appear as a lump with a rough surface. In fact there are warts that are flat and smooth. What’s important is early treatment – if you want to avoid having to go through the pain and discomfort that is in many cases associated with warts. What’s even more important is taking preventative steps so you don’t develop warts in the first place. Prevention is easy, and when successful, you won’t have to worry about warts reappearing after the old ones have disappeared and spreading to other areas of the skin.
First, you need to know what your risks are. Things that will heighten the probability of growing warts, especially plantar warts, include walking around barefoot in damp or wet places such as the swimming pool, locker room or public shower. Anywhere that’s moist and warm is a good place for the HPV that results in warts.
If you already have warts, try not to touch, scratch or pick on them with your fingers. There are warts that can be transmitted from one part of your body to another. So when you should stay away from direct contact with warts that are on other people, you should do the same with warts that are already present on your body.
You don’t have to completely avoid public areas to protect yourself from HPV. For instance, after using the swimming pool, just make sure you thoroughly clean and dry your feet after. Also use slippers each and every time you walk into a public shower or locker room. Going barefoot is a no-no.
Don’t use the same nail clippers, file or pumice stone that you use on your healthy nails and skin on your warts. This can cause further transmission of warts to other parts of your body, which you definitely don’t want. If you have touched your warts, wash your hands properly.
Next, try to stay healthy and increase your immune system. Boost your body’s energy and protective strength by eating balanced meals rich in fruits and vegetables. Also try to exercise on a regular basis. It has been observed that a weakened immune system seems to make one more susceptible to infection by HPV warts.
If unsure about HPV warts, visit your doctor. You may want to discuss homeopathic treatments, which are a natural alternative. Sometimes it can be difficult to tell whether you have a wart, callus, corn or simple mole. A simple test may be all that’s needed for a proper diagnosis.