Warts are small protrusions or raised lumps, which are caused by a viral infection often arising as a result of broken skin or a compromised immune system. The virus responsible is the human papillomavirus, HPV, of which there are many strains.

There are many different types of warts varying in shape and the site of infection; ranging from the common wart (verruca vulgaris) to genital warts and each type of wart comes from a different strain.

Warts are viruses living within skin with the blood vessels actually feeding the virus ensuring it carries on thriving. This is the reason why removal of warts can often be painful because it is attached to the capillaries and embedded in the skin. Often you can see black dots at the site which are clotted blood vessels feeding the wart.

What are the different types of warts?

There are many types of warts with varying sizes, shapes and appearances which include:

Plantar warts – A common type of wart that grows on the side or bottom of the foot. Because they are usually located on the bottom of the feet, they are usually flat and painful. The pressure of the body weight causes the plantar wart to grow inward. Anyone can develop plantar warts, however this type of wart is more likely to affect teenagers; people with a weakened immune system; those who have been affected by plantar warts before; and people who walk barefoot especially in public baths and showers.

Flat warts – These warts are small and smooth with a distinct oval or round shape. They appear in large numbers, anywhere between 20 and 100, and can be found anywhere on the body. In children, these warts are most often found on the face and fingers. Scratching causes the warts to spread in a linear fashion.

Genital warts – These are spread through sexual contact and form tiny, soft, flesh coloured bumps.

Why do warts spread?

Warts are spread when a non-infected area comes into contact with an infected area either through direct contact or contact with skin cells shed from the wart. In order to contract the infection, the uninfected skin needs to have a small tear or opening. Warts can be highly contagious and hence one should not use towels and objects from people who already have warts.

What is the best wart treatment?

Whatever the type of wart, there is great justification in the use of the amino acid L-lysine. Lysine inhibits viral replication by blocking the uptake of arginine, a major “food source” for the virus to multiply. The supplement I would recommend is L-Lysine by Lamberts, take three tablets daily on an empty stomach. Lysine also helps to boost the immune system which ensures a faster recovery from this type of infection.

Topically, for all types of warts excluding genital warts, I would recommend Fulvic Acid Nail Cream because it has a synergy of anti-viral oils, including Tea Tree Oil, Lemongrass Oil and Coconut Oil, making it very useful for cold sores and warts. It is very gentle and suitable for children too.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are warts and verrucas the same?

While warts and verrucas are both caused by HPV and are essentially the same type of growth, they tend to develop in different locations. Warts typically appear on the hands or other areas of the body, whereas verrucas are a specific form of wart that develops on the soles of the feet.

Can you squeeze a verruca out?

Squeezing a verruca is not recommended and can be harmful. Doing so risks damaging the surrounding skin and may cause the virus to spread further or lead to infection. Gradual, targeted treatments are a far safer and more effective approach to removal.

What causes a verruca to develop?

Verrucas develop when HPV enters the skin, usually through a small cut or abrasion. The virus spreads most readily in warm, moist environments, making communal barefoot areas such as swimming pools, changing rooms and gym showers common sites of transmission. It can also pass from person to person through close skin contact.

What is the lifespan of a verruca?

The duration of a verruca varies considerably between individuals. Some clear up naturally within a matter of months, while others may persist for several years. The body's immune response is the key factor in determining how quickly a verruca resolves.

How can you get rid of a wart fast and painlessly?

Specially formulated wart and verruca treatments, including topical solutions and medicated plasters, are among the most accessible options available. It is worth noting that treatment courses can take up to three months, may cause some mild skin irritation and are not guaranteed to work for everyone. Always follow product instructions carefully, and seek guidance from a pharmacist if you are unsure. If over-the-counter treatments have not been effective, a GP can advise on further options.

Can verrucas go away on their own?

Yes, it is entirely possible for verrucas to resolve without treatment. The body's immune system will often clear the virus over time, though this can take anywhere from a few months to a couple of years depending on the individual.

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