Causes and risk factors
Human papilloma is the virus which causes viral warts. Every individual is different from other so not everyone coming in contact with the virus may develop warts. However people whose immune system is weak tend to develop symptoms. The virus sustains well in moist and warm environment hence the chances of infection are higher at swimming pool sites or at the location of lockers in cases where the person walks with uncovered feet. Direct entry into the superficial skin occurs through cracks, cuts or abrasions. Sharing of things like towel, comb, napkin, razors etc can also spread the infection from the infected person to another. Biting nails or shaving hair can also help to spread the infection from one part of the body to another.
Symptoms
There are different types of warts-common warts (Verruca vulgaris), plane warts (Verruca plana), plantar warts (verrucas), filiform warts (verruca filiformis), Mosaic warts. Warts are commonly seen on back of fingers, knees, toes, sole of foot. They can affect the nails and the external genital areas also. E.g.: penis, vagina.
Localized pain at the site of skin lesion is important symptom. Pain may aggravate on standing or other movement. Itching is another feature. On examination a coarse tiny skin lesions with black points like that of a pin are seen which are tender. This small black pinpoint appearance is due to the bleeding from the tiny blood vessels under the skin. Pain and discomfort can lead to irritation.
Investigations
Usually the symptoms narrated by the patient and examination of the lesion are sufficient to confirm the diagnosis of the viral warts. Dermatoscopic examination along with skin biopsy can be done.
Treatment:
The first step is application of ointment containing salicylic acid. Cryotherapy (sloughing off the dead skin) is another effective measure which can be adopted. In cases of hard warts laser treatment can be used. Cauterization therapy can be adopted which burns the damaged tissue which reduces the other possible harm. Use of duct tapes is also effective and less expensive. Not only personal hygiene but the hygienic conditions in the surroundings especially at public areas should be maintained. One should avoid walking bare foot at the pool sides or near the changing rooms or near the lockers. Special care should be taken by the people who are suffering from plantar warts so that the infection does not spread up to the other person. Above all as the infection flares up in person whose health is compromised hence measure should be adopted to improve the immunity like having healthy food, regular exercises, timely vaccination and measures to avoid stress.
Other Modes of treatment:
Certain other modes of treatment can also be helpful in coping up the disease. Taking into consideration the symptoms in holistic way, homoeopathy can offer a good aid for the relief of the symptoms. The Ayurvedic system of medicine which uses herbs and synthetic derivates can also be beneficial in combating the complaints.
