News Concerning HPV Remedies

By Lisha McQuade


The human papilloma virus causes warts. According to physicians, there are over 100 varieties of the virus and the type may determine where a wart appears. Some are more likely to affect the soles of the feet while others the knees, hands or face. Some are transmitted through casual contact and others through sex. Most are harmless, but when spread through sexual contact, they can result in cervical cancer.

Biting one's fingernails is one way to spread the virus. During the biting process, the skin around the nails is opened. This open access may allow the virus to take root under the skin and allow another wart to grow.

It is important to take steps to prevent the spread of the viral infection when grooming. If a wart is discovered avoid clipping, brushing, combing or shaving the area. If a wart is accidentally touched, even on one's own body, the hands should be washed immediately with warm soap and water.

It is also important to avoid grooming tools others have used. Use of a pumice stone or a nail file to reduce the size a wart can contaminate it with the germs. This can cause it to spread on the first person who experienced the problem as well as anyone else using the tool. Individuals who have professional manicures or pedicures should ensure any tools used at the appointment have been sanitized properly.

Never pick at a wart. The process of picking at the existing wart can allow viruses to spread to other parts of the body. One way to discourage picking is to cover the wart with a Band-Aid. This can be particularly effective in young children who are affected by this condition but is also useful for adults who might otherwise pick at the wart unconsciously.

It is best to keep the hands dry as moist environments encourage spread of the disease. When hands must remain wet for a big part of the day, practice frequent hand washing if possible. Use a gentle soap and warm water, if it is available. Antibacterial or antiviral soaps are not needed as any soap can dislodge the virus from the hands and allow it to be rinsed away.

Many patients ask their doctor to remove warts. The process may involve use of surgery or liquid nitrogen to freeze the wart for removal. Since the body is affected by a virus, the wart may come back. Good hygiene can help to prevent catching the viral infection responsible for a wart or it from spreading.




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