Warts

Warts may or may not be uncomfortable, but they’re unsightly and spread easily. To get rid of a bothersome wart, the skilled dermatologists at Adult & Pediatric Dermatology Specialists in Trumbull, Westport, and Derby, Connecticut, use multiple advanced procedures and medications that cause the growth to disappear or fall off faster than it would otherwise. To find out which wart treatment is right for you, call Adult & Pediatric Dermatology Specialists or schedule an appointment online today.

What are warts?

Warts are viral growths that appear on your skin, commonly on the hands, feet, and genitals. You get warts from coming into contact with human papillomavirus (HPV). 

Warts can vary in appearance but typically look like raised, fleshy growths. Warts on the soles of your feet are called plantar warts and are typically flat because of the pressure on them when you stand and walk. 

The team at Adult & Pediatric Dermatology Specialists can examine any skin growths you notice and identify whether or not the growth in question is a wart. If it is, they discuss treatment options with you. While all warts disappear on their own eventually, wart treatments remove them more rapidly, which can help you avoid spreading the infection. 

How did I get a wart?

The virus that causes warts is highly contagious and can cause new warts on others or yourself if your wart touches other skin. You likely got a wart from touching someone who had one, which transferred the virus from their skin to yours. The virus gets into your skin through small cuts or breaks, which is even more likely to happen if you have a weak immune system. 

You don’t have to touch someone’s wart directly to catch the virus. Warts can spread on shared personal items. Additionally, it’s common to get plantar warts from going barefoot in a moist, shared environment like a public pool, locker room, or shower. Sexual intercourse is the most common way to spread genital warts. 

To avoid spreading warts you have or catching warts from others, you should always avoid sharing personal items like razors and towels. You should also take a pair of flip-flops or slide-ons with you when you go to the public pool or gym locker room. 

How are warts treated?

Adult & Pediatric Dermatology Specialists provide treatment for warts anywhere on your body. They make recommendations for treatment after examining the wart and discussing your medical history. 

To manage or treat a wart, the team might recommend:

• Salicylic acid (a peeling medicine)
• Cryotherapy (freezing)
• Minor surgery
• Laser treatment
• Immunotherapy

You may also soak the wart in water and gently remove any tissue as it falls off.

If you have one or more warts and want to explore their treatments, call Adult & Pediatric Dermatology Specialists or schedule an appointment online today.