Skin warts are generally not life-threatening. Most of them disappear without treatment, however this can last months, possibly even years. Warts are more likely to clear up untreated among children though. Some types of skin warts can be tricky to eliminate because even when they vanished they have a tendency to re-grow in the same spot. Though benign, warts are ugly. Sometimes, they can even be a nuisance, particularly when they crop up on the hands and bottom of the foot where they are likely to cause some tenderness when pressed, such as when holding something or when you're walking. Warts can spread and increase in number, in such case, treatment can be considered.

Who are vulnerable to warts?

You and everyone else can get warts on their skin, but they are more common among young children since this group is more vulnerable to have skin lesions from playing where the wart virus (human papilloma virus) could get into. People who bite their nails are also particularly vulnerable to warts. Individuals who have weakened immune system also have greater probability of getting warts.

How are warts passed on?

Warts are passed on from individual to individual and from one area of your body to another. It is very contagious, and it is even possible to get warts after coming in contact with something that somebody's wart touched, like a towel. For more information on how to get rid of a wart on your finger, visit here.

Treatments you can do at home

There are many wart treatments you can do at home , some are more effective than others. One of the frequently mentioned solutions to remove warts is to cover them with duct tape, changing the tape every two days to gradually remove layers of the wart. Studies testing the efficacy of this treatment are inconclusive though.

You can also eliminate warts at home using solutions containing salicylic acid. This can be purchased with no prescription and comes in many forms, including gel, liquid, or pre-treated pads. You need to apply the medicine on the wart every day. It is useful if you clean the wart with warm water before you apply salicylic acid. Results don't happen overnight though. One product you can get that is made with this ingredient is Wartrol.

Warts can indicate a sluggish immune system. Adopting behaviors that will improve your body’s defense mechanisms, for instance coping with stress, maintaining a healthy diet, and exercising regularly, will help prevent new warts. In addition, never pick or scratch warts and wear appropriate footwear when in public shower and pool facilities. Never touch someone’s wart, and avoid sharing towels and grooming instruments with others. You are more likely to get warts from infected items than direct contact.