Question:
My teenage daughter frequently gets small warts on her hands. Is there anything she can do to prevent them or is she likely to outgrow the cause?
Answer:
Warts are caused by Human Papillomaviruses (HPV). There are more than 100 different types of HPVs. While warts are more common in children and young adults, they can occur at any age. The virus is transmitted by touch and frequently occurs in areas of trauma or skin irritation. There is no typical duration for warts. They can last from weeks to years to a lifetime.
Preventing the spread of warts can be very difficult. Try to avoid picking or scratching warts as this can cause them to spread. Normal hand washing techniques are recommended. On the hands specifically, try to make sure the skin stays hydrated to prevent skin breakdown that can encourage spread.
There are several methods of wart removal. Typical methods used in the office include cryotherapy, chemical destruction, or electrocautery. There are also several over-the-counter (OTC) treatment options that sometimes are effective.
Mark Callery, DO
Family Medicine, Skin Care
Utica Park Clinic – Owasso
10512 N. 110th East Ave., Suite 200
Owasso, OK 74055
918.376.8900
