Skin is our body's largest organ and covers our entire body. Proper care is essential to prevent the negative effects of dirt and pollution. Microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi, and viruses can also affect the skin. Warts, a common skin condition, are fleshy or lumpy outgrowths that can be observed on the skin

What are Warts?

Warts, common outgrowths observed on skin surfaces, are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). They can be spread through direct contact, such as handshakes and hugs. While warts are typically curable, in some cases they can persist on the skin's surface for an extended period.

Types of Warts

Warts, outgrowths on the skin, come in various types based on the causative agents and symptoms they exhibit. These include:

1. Common warts: commonly found on elbows, knees, between fingers and sometimes on the face.

2. Filiform warts: appearing on eyelids, lips, neck, or face skin.

3. Flat warts: which occur in clusters on the back of hands, legs, and face.

4. Genital warts: which can be found around the genital area.

5. Periungual warts: thickened skin around nails.

6. Plantar and palmar warts: which are found on the soles of feet and palms of hands respectively.

The Underlying Agent of Warts

Warts, lumpy or fleshy outgrowths on the skin, are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). Various strains of the virus can lead to different types of warts. These warts can be spread through direct contact with an infected person.

Who Gets Affected? 

Warts can affect individuals of all ages and genders. However, those with weakened immune systems and those with close or direct contact with an infected person are at higher risk of developing warts. Additionally, the risk of contracting certain types of warts, such as periungual warts, may increase for individuals who bite their nails.

Symptoms of Warts

The symptoms of warts vary depending on the type of wart:

1. Common warts: present as rough surfaces and appear grayish-yellow or brown, commonly found on fingers, elbows, knees and face.

2. Filiform warts: small and smooth outgrowths, commonly found in clusters.

3. Flat warts: small and smooth outgrowths, commonly found in clusters.  

4. Genital warts: severe outgrowths found around the genital area, which can spread to other body parts such as the cervix.

5. Periungual warts: thickened skin around the nails, which can cause serious pain in the affected area.

Diagnosis Of Warts

Individuals experiencing symptoms of warts can consult with a dermatologist. The doctor will examine and observe the skin to diagnose the symptoms of warts. They may also perform a shave biopsy to determine the extent of the infection and identify symptoms such as blood clots or black spots on the skin. During a shave biopsy, the doctor may need to remove layers of the wart and send them to a lab for further examination

Treatment For Warts

The treatment for warts varies depending on the type of wart, the duration of time the wart has been present on the skin, and the affected area. Common treatment methods include:

• Applying medications such as salicylic acid to the wart to remove it from the skin.
• Freezing the wart with liquid nitrogen.
• Using electrical currents or laser surgery to remove the wart.
• Cutting the wart out of the affected skin.
• Trying home remedies.

Care should be taken to ensure that the treatment does not negatively impact the individual's metabolism and that it does not cause pain or irritation. Additionally, new warts may develop in some cases after treatment.

Prevention For Warts

Prevention for warts include:

• Maintaining personal hygiene.
• Avoiding contact with persons who are affected by warts. 
• Wearing slippers or shoes.
• Proper care of open wounds such as cuts.
• Avoiding close contact and not sharing personal belongings such as towels and clothes with those affected by warts.

Conclusion

Maintaining personal hygiene and avoiding close contact with individuals who have warts can prevent and cure warts, allowing for beautiful and healthy skin.