Warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). Warts appear as small and rough lesions or benign tumors on the skin, and they can easily spread from one person to another.
Warts usually develop on the feet and hands as small and rough lesions. However, they can also develop on other part of the body, including the genital area. The virus responsible for causing the lesions is known as the human papillomavirus (HPV). There are almost 100 strains of HPV, which can cause several types of warts, such as common warts, flat warts, filiform warts, plantar warts, mosaic warts, and genital warts.
So, the strain that causes lesions on hands and feet is different from the one that causes genital warts. Some strains of HPV are also associated with cervical, oral, laryngeal, vaginal, penile, and anal cancer. Generally, the type 1 of human papillomavirus is known to cause lesions on hands and feet, while type 6 and 11 are known to affect the genital area. It is a highly contagious viral disease that can easily spread from one individual to another.
Treatment Options
Though there are several options for treating this condition, many of them can provide only a temporary solution. Some treatment options can require several sessions to completely remove the lesions from your skin. The various options available for treating this condition are, medications, laser treatment, electrodessication, cryosurgery, and surgical curettage. The topical medications available for the treatment of this condition are, salicylic acid, podophyllum resin, imiquimod, podofilox, trichloroacetic acid, etc.
Salicylic acid is commonly used for wart removal, and its daily application for at least four weeks can provide sufficient relief. However, it is an acid, and so, you should take adequate care while applying salicylic acid on the affected area, so that it does not come in contact with the surrounding healthy skin. The application of topical creams and ointments can also be effective in containing the disease, though they can cause a few side effects. For example, imiquimod can cause skin irritation, while trichloroacetic acid can cause pain and a burning sensation in the skin.
Cryosurgery is another treatment option where liquid nitrogen is applied on the affected area to destroy the virus. On the other hand, laser treatment involves the use of laser beams for destroying the lesions and the virus. Electrodessication is another technique, where an electric current is used for destroying the lesions. Sometimes, physicians can also opt for surgical curettage, wherein a curette is used to scrape the tissues and remove the warts.
How to Remove Warts Naturally
Herbs that have anti-viral and immune-boosting properties can be employed for treating this condition. Tea tree oil and aloe vera are quite effective in curing many skin problems. You can also apply lemon slices soaked in apple cider vinegar on the affected areas. It has been found that the application of raw potatoes can also provide significant relief.
Garlic is renowned for its anti-viral properties. So, you can apply a paste of garlic on the warts to destroy the virus. For best results, apply vitamin E on the area before using garlic. Echinacea is another herb that can strengthen the immune system to fight viral infectious diseases.
You can also apply a duct tape on the affected area, which can help remove the warts by gradually taking out the layers of dead skin. To get the desired result, keep the duct tape on the area for at least five to six days. Then remove the tape and clean the area properly, and apply another duct tape on the area. Continue this process for about five to six weeks.
In addition to the conventional treatment options, the application of duct tape and herbs can be beneficial in removing warts by accelerating the process of healing. However, keep in mind that this viral infection is highly contagious. So, be sure to take the appropriate measures to prevent the spread of the infection to other parts of your body, and to your family members and friends.
Disclaimer: This article is for informative purposes only, and should not be treated as a substitute for professional medical advice.
