What Cause Warts
Warts are indeed very annoying especially if they affect you in your daily activities. Warts (or medically known as condylomata or verrucae) are abnormal skin growths or tumors which are benign in nature. They usually appear as bumpy thickened skin lesions which suddenly pop up without any warning. Sometimes, warts can be mistaken for a simple callus or corn. However, looking closer at the lesion will determine the difference. Warts have a coarse surface and have small black spots within it called the “seeds”. These seeds are caused by clotted and dried blood within small blood vessels.
What cause warts to appear in the skin? Basically, warts are caused by a viral infection. The Human Papilloma virus or HPV is the main culprit behind these unwanted growths. The Human papilloma virus is a DNA virus, meaning it contains DNA genome instead of RNA. Unfortunately, there are about more than 50 kinds of Human papilloma virus present. Each type of HPV produces its own type of wart, each with different type of appearance and area where it appears. Warts in general take time before it disappears. Since it is caused by a virus, it is usually self-limiting and resolves by itself. Usually, the time it takes for warts to dissipate may take months to up to several years. Unfortunately, it has the chance to recur because of several factors such as low immunity and the likes.
The most common type of wart or scientifically called as verruca vulgaris is caused by Human papilloma virus (HPV) 1, 2 and 3. These warts look like tiny bumps with a rough surface. It is commonly found on the knees, knuckles, palms and elbows. Plantar wart, which is a type of wart which grows on the surface of the soles of the feet is caused by Human papilloma virus 2. This type of strain thrives in moisture, thus people who walk barefoot on moist grounds such as communal showers and swimming pools, as well as grassy areas have a relatively high chance of acquiring plantar warts. HPV 11 and 16 can cause genital warts, which can be spread by means of sexual contact. This commonly affects people who are sexually active with multiple partners. Recent studies have shown that the HPV associated with genital warts can be considered as a trigger for cervical cancer.
The most effective way to prevent yourself from acquiring warts is by protecting yourself from things which may cause warts. Always wear protective devices like slippers to avoid coming in contact with viral contaminants.