What do warts look like?
Common warts are usually rough, firm skin-coloured bumps. Warts on the soles of the feet, called plantar warts, may appear flatter because of pressure from walking and can sometimes be painful.
Other types include flat warts and filiform warts, which have different appearances and commonly affect specific areas.
Are warts contagious?
Yes. The virus can spread through direct skin-to-skin contact or contact with contaminated surfaces. Picking, biting or scratching a wart may also contribute to spreading the infection to nearby skin.
Avoid sharing towels, nail clippers or other personal items that come into contact with affected skin.
How are warts treated?
Some warts disappear on their own, particularly in children, but they may persist or spread. Treatment depends on the type, size, location and number of warts.
A dermatologist may use treatments such as salicylic acid preparations, cryotherapy, chemical treatments, electrosurgery/RF cautery or other procedures depending on the individual case.
Do not attempt to cut, burn or aggressively scrape warts at home. Incorrect treatment can cause burns, infection or scarring.
If a skin growth is changing, bleeding, painful or does not look like a typical wart, it should be examined by a dermatologist rather than treated as a wart without a diagnosis.
For persistent or recurrent warts, professional dermatological evaluation can help determine the appropriate treatment. For expert skin and hair care, consult DermcareMD Skin and Hair Clinic and Dr Neha Athalye.
