Warts are caused by a type of a virus; they are not caused by frogs. They are a small area that is usually raised above the surrounding area and the skin feels rough. Most warts are found on the hands or feet, however, warts can also show up on the knees, face, neck and genitalia. Because they are caused by a virus they are contagious so coming in contact with an infected person can result in the spread of the virus, leading to warts on other individuals. The virus can even live on linens and other items used by an infected person and the virus can be spread through contact with those items.
Just as with other illnesses and health issues, some people are more sensitive to the virus than others. Warts are often spread via handshakes. Neither person shaking hands necessarily has warts but one may have come into contact with the virus prior to the handshake. Unfortunately we have no way of knowing other people’s habits when it comes to hand washing or the use of hand sanitizers.
There are lots of prescription medications available for the treatment and removal of warts. Some of the medications work slowly, over a period of weeks and others are made to work within a few minutes. Obviously the quicker methods are a little harsher in some ways but they are very effective. A dermatologist can recommend the best treatment for you. Suggestions may range from removal of dead surface skin, or freezing the wart, to laser treatment.
Many people choose to use over the counter medications. Modern medications provide us with many choices that are effective. Most of the drugs use salicylic acid as an active ingredient. There are two main types of products; one is adhesive pads treated with the acid. This procedure involves a slow regimen of cleaning the area, applying the acid, and then removing the dead skin with an emery board or pumice stone. This process may take several weeks.
Silver nitrate is the other most common form of over the counter wart remover. Silver nitrate can usually be found in the form of a caustic pencil at drug stores. This method may take 3 to 6 daily treatments to be effective.
Another ‘at home’ technique is that of the duct tape occlusion therapy. With this method you simply cover the wart with duct tape for a period of 5 – 6 days. When you remove the tape you should soak the area in water until softened and then scrape with a pumice stone or emery board.