Have you noticed a lump or bump of fleshy growths on your skin? Do you worry these bumps may be a risk to your health or even multiplying? Warts are a common but virtually harmless skin condition! However, they may be frustrating, but there are options available to manage or remove them. Explore the possibilities during a consultation with us at Nunnally Dermatology in Baton Rouge, LA!
What Are Warts?
Warts are bumps on the skin caused by human papillomavirus (HPV). These fleshy bumps occur when HPV infects the top layer of the skin. Although they are caused by a virus, these bumps pose minimal threat or risk to overall health.
They most commonly occur on or around:
- Face
- Feet
- Genitals
- Hands
- Nails
It is important to keep in mind that warts can be considered contagious. They are easily spread and passed through skin-to-skin contact. They may be passed from person to person or from one area of your own body to another.
Should I Be Concerned About Them?
As previously mentioned, warts do not have a major impact on health. However, anyone is susceptible to them. They are common among kids and teenagers due to the skin-to-skin nature of passing them.
If you have a weakened immune system, you may be at a higher risk of developing or receiving warts. If you frequently experience dry skin or cracked skin, you may also be concerned. These skin growths are a result of HPV passing through and infecting the top layer of the skin. If skin is already exposed or damaged, this makes it more likely for the infection to occur.
People who bite their nails also may be at risk for warts. By biting and tearing the skin, this also creates conditions for the HPV infection to occur.
Are There Treatment Options Available?
Wart removal is a fairly simple and straightforward process. The specifics of treatment will vary for each person and their experiences, but the goal is the same across the board – to completely remove the wart. The process may include freezing the wart, excision, or stimulating immune responses to minimize the lump.
All removal options are performed in the comfort of our Baton Rouge office. Although warts are often painless and pose little risk to health, it is important to monitor the condition for any changes in texture or growth. Additionally, the warts can be highly contagious.
Some people choose to allow the bump to take its natural course. A wart may fall off naturally over time, but this may take up to a few years.
Schedule Your Consultation!
Concerned about or currently living with this skin condition? Contact us today at Nunnally Dermatology and schedule your consultation to learn more about warts. Dr. Donna Nunnally and her qualified staff proudly serve you from Baton Rouge, Louisiana. We are committed to helping you find relief from this dermatological condition.
